A ZOO’s ability to welcome back customers has been described as ‘amazing’ but there is a “long road ahead” to return to normal.

The frank admission was made by Welsh Mountain Zoo director of operations and administration Jen Jesse, as the attraction was allowed to welcome to its first visitors back on Monday, April 26.

The site has been closed since December in-line with Covid restrictions.

Ms Jesse said: “We were delighted to be able to welcome our first visitors back to the zoo since our closure.

“There is no doubt that these past months have been challenging and there is a long road ahead of us. However, to see the smiling faces of visitors arriving through our gates on Monday was so pleasing for the whole team.

“Our friends and supporters have been truly amazing throughout this period and we are so humbled by the efforts they have gone to, to support us. We also thank two grant-giving charities and Welsh Government for their funding support.

“We look forward to welcoming so many more visitors back in the coming weeks.”

Ms Jesse said the zoo, only able to open its outdoor areas, was seeing a “good demand” for tickets.

Indoor animal houses and close contact viewing areas remain temporarily closed.

Last year bosses said the pandemic had caused the zoo “serious financial damage”.

Running costs, while closed, were more than £118,000 a month, combined with lost income resulting in a £700,000 loss.

The zoo is appealing for volunteers. For more information email education@welshmountainzoo.org