Animals have tragically died after a fire at a popular UK zoo forced the attraction to close on Monday (3 August). Hoo Zoo and Dinosaur World owner Will Dorrell confirmed some animals died after the fire broke out at around 7am in the zoo office.

Sharing a message on social media, Mr Dorrell said: "Fortunately, at that time the fire was contained to within the building, but sadly, three animals did lose their lives. "We lost some stick insects, a hedgehog, and a snake, all of which were personal pets ourselves and not part of the zoo. We are absolutely devastated about it."

The zoo was forced to close for the day yesterday and two people were taken to hospital as a precaution after a fire broke out at the attraction.

In his message published yesterday evening, Mr Dorrell also said that those two peoplw were two of the owners - his wife and father - were transported to hospital as a precautionary measure after experiencing smoke inhalation but were subsequently released.

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