A second demonstration is to be held outside a south Essex zoo this weekend as animal-lovers make a stand over conditions.

Hundreds of people have put their names to a petition against Basildon Zoo over its handling of animals and the conditions they are kept in.

Now, protesters are planning to take their placards to the zoo, in London Road, Vange, to spread the word to the wider public on Sunday.

Organiser Sarah Lynne said: "We have been overwhelmed by the response - nobody has refused to sign the petition. It is just growing all the time.

"I do not know why the zoo is still there. It is a heartbreaking place. It is a disgrace and an embarrassment."

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