Zoo members pay an annual fee, which entitles them to many benefits, including unlimited free admission throughout the year during normal public opening times, free admission to other leading zoos, 20 per cent discount in the zoo gift shops, restaurants and cafes and a quarterly full colour zoo magazine.

The zoo's head of marketing and development, Sharon Leeso, said: "January was a good month for new memberships.

"Nearly 1,000 people decided to join for the first time and over 1,500 people renewed their membership with us. At this time last year, we had 28,402 members so that shows that the scheme is ever more popular. Membership offers great value for money for anyone who is likely to visit the zoo more than three or four times a year."

This year will see new exhibits and visitor facilities take shape at the zoo and the return of cheetahs to the collection, the introduction of Philippine crocodiles and new African aviaries in the Tsavo area.

For more information on zoo membership, see www.chesterzoo.org or call 01244 380280.