A LION, crocodile, penguins and many other zoo animals can be currently found in and around Romsey.

Over the past few weeks residents from Romsey have been creating zoo animals out of old plant pots.

The animal creations that are made from plant pots can be found at the Dukes Mill area of Romsey and they will be there until the end of the month.

Councillor Dorothy Baverstock who represents the Romsey, Cupernham ward came up with the pop up zoo idea at the beginning of the year after she saw a location in the North that had done it.

Students from Romsey Primary School made a huge crocodile; Cupernham Juniors made snakes, tortoises and monkeys; and Halterworth Primary School made a giraffe, and mini elephants.

Shepherd’s Down Special School also took part by making a number of owls to decorate the surrounding trees. Two groups of young carers made several penguins, and a zoo keeper to feed them. Other local organisations such as: the Romsey Men’s Shed, Abbotswood WI, Romsey WI, Romsey Choral Society, Woodley Grange, Transition Town Romsey, along with a number of individuals, added to the collection by making giraffes, elephants, mice, pigs, birds, insects, a lion, a sloth and a tarantula

Dorothy said: “I thought it was a good idea as it is something that most people can do as it is low cost.

“Lots of people have old plant pots that they aren’t using.”

Dorothy said that the children who have taken part have “really enjoyed doing it.”

She added: “It’s a cheap and fun way for children to be involved in art and craft.

“It is also a good way to teach children about recycling.”

Residents can go along and see the creations made for the pop up zoo until the end of the month.

Dorothy said: “If you want to make something this weekend then people are welcome to.”