Elephants enjoy birthday bash at Blackpool Zoo

UK: Well you’ve got to look your best for your big day!

Blackpool Zoo’s big attractions Kate and Crumple were given a good hose down and brush up for their 39th birthday celebrations.

The event, part of the Zoo’s efforts to raise money for elephant care and education in Sri Lanka, saw Blackpool Beaver scouts take part in a project to make cakes and then present them to their huge new friends.

The youngsters from first Norbreck were given potatoes last week and asked to cook up some cakes by mixing mashed spuds with fruit and vegetables.

The youngsters then presented them to the elephants as the sun shone on Saturday evening.

Beaver scout leader Ann Clayton said: “The beavers had an absolute ball. They thought it was really wonderful and they enjoyed everything from making the cakes to going to the event. We’re really pleased to be able to support the elephants’ cause.”

The beavers linked up with the zoo following the 100th anniversary of scouting last year.

Sarah Thomas, the zoo’s education officer, who visited Sri Lanka last year, said: “What we do is try to visit and educate people both here and in Sri Lanka. It was fantastic that the beavers took part and enjoyed it.”