A CHILD has raised more than £500 for a struggling zoo thanks to the heart-warming illustrations in his handmade picture book.

Animal lover Aaron, four, wants to be a zookeeper when he grows up.

When he saw the trouble Colchester Zoo were in, he decided to create a book to raise money.

With the help of family, he was able to accompany his drawings with rhymes in his book ‘Pasha the Tiger’.

So far, £570 has been raised.

Zoo director Dr Dominique Tropeano has said last year raise many challenges for the Maldon Road attraction.

READ MORE: 'We will never forget your kindness' - Colchester Zoo boss' heartfelt letter to visitors

In a letter penned to visitors and supporters last year, he said: “I know many of you have been so kind and generous in the past, we hope you will continue to help us in any way you can so we can keep the Zoo going and survive.

“January 1, 2021 will be much different to New Year 2020 and at this moment in time we don’t have a scenario for the New Year but we expect any recovery to be very tough and challenging.

“The animal collection will be fine, we will ensure everything is in place for their well-being so please do not worry about the animals.

“I will close this letter now, I hope you will be able to support us during this closure and we wish you all a happy and above all healthy New Year from the animals, all the staff and my family.”

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