Part-time receptionist, Claire Phillpotts, has been named employee of the month for the 'wonderful' way she helps people who contact the Castle Hill attraction.

Zoo bosses came up with the pefect way to thank the animal-mad mum-of-three from Birmingham, by giving her chance to get up close to their stunning snow leopard, Taïga.

Claire was nominated for the title by Zoo Director Derek Grove for the friendly and helpful manner in which she deals with enquiries from members of the public. He said:

“Claire is very often the first point of contact at the zoo and the way she interacts with visitors on the phone and describes the zoo and its facilities is always so helpful, informative and enthusiastic.”

Her nomination, which was supported by members of the zoo’s management committee in a vote, also meant she was given a certificate and gift vouchers. Claire said:

“I just couldn’t believe it when I heard I had been chosen and it was wonderful news. And to get to meet and feed Taïga was an amazing experience.”

Trainee Keeper Harry Upton and Customer Services Team Member Lauren Westwood were also picked out as notable achievement winners.