Zoo bosses are celebrating after their licence was renewed for six more years.

Barrow Council's licensing committee agreed after a mammoth hearing which was held behind-closed-doors yesterday and lasted for nearly five hours that Cumbria Zoo Company Ltd can continue to operate the attraction.

Karen Brewer, CEO of the firm which runs the Dalton zoo, said it was 'absolutely fantastic' news.

She said: “We are over the moon, every one of us.

“We can just get on with things for the next six years, it's wonderful.

“I would also like to thank everybody for their support.

“I want the general public to know that we are very grateful for their support over the nine months with the Covid restrictions, and thanks also for adopting animals and buying tickets.

"We could not do it without them.”

Councillors gave the green light after deliberating for a number of hours.

They had been presented with a report, prepared by the council's public protection manager, which recommended renewing the licence after a positive inspection last month.

The zoo inspectors had said they were 'impressed' with improvements which had been made since the last inspection, although they added that there was 'still much to do'.

Councillor Tony Callister, who represents Walney North, chaired the committee, and announced the decision.

He said: “We have come to a unanimous decision today and have agreed to the recommendations: number one, to note the inspection report and its conclusion to renew Cumbria Zoo Company Ltd's licence for a period of six years.

“Number two, to consider the recommended conditions, direction and response from Cumbria Zoo Company Ltd, including the extended compliance period.

“Number three, to grant the renewal of the zoo licence with the conditions and directions as detailed within the report and agreed on.”

The zoo boasts more than 60 indoor and outdoor attractions, as well as an outdoor adventure play area.

Two indoor restaurants and a retail area will also operate under the new licence.