Chester Zoo has become the UK's first zoo to achieve a prestigious customer service honour - the World Host Organisation accreditation.

Known officially as World Host, the recognition programme is aimed at raising global customer service standards.

The zoo has been recognised for its commitment to excellence, as a result is delivering a major new programme of guest service training for its staff this summer.

Employing more than 800 people during the peak summer months and bringing more than £50m to the regional economy every year, the zoo has already trained more than 600 staff in the flagship customer service programme.

Director of HR at the zoo Jane Hubbard said: “With more than 800 members of the team here, we’re a big family.

"This is a commitment to invest in that family.

"So far, more than 600 members of staff have become proud World Host Ambassadors.

"We will gradually increase these numbers over the coming months and years.

“As the UK’s most popular zoo and the most visited attraction outside of London and with nearly 1.9 million visitors flocking through our gates every year, we want each and every one to have an amazing day with us, and that day starts with a smile and warm welcome all the way through to a fond farewell.”