EXTREME heat warnings has caused a petting zoo to close so staff can focus on keeping the animals “cool and comfortable”.

Maldon Petting Zoo will be closed today and tomorrow.

Mobile services have also been postponed for the safety of the animals.

Zoo director Craig Williams said: “Our zookeepers will be extremely busy throughout both days working tirelessly to ensure our animals are kept as cool and as comfortable as possible, whilst making sure they look after themselves also.

“We will also be making sure that our staff are kept safe and comfortable.

“Please stay cool, check in on your neighbours, look after your pets and if you are going to enjoy the weather then please do this safely.”

The zoo will reopen on Wednesday at 10am.