MIKE Amesbury and two other Cheshire Labour MPs have written to the government over fears for the future of Chester Zoo.

The news follows Chester Zoo issuing a plea to the public for help in raising £1.6 million to cover costs for its 35,000 animals, staffing and site maintenance costs as well as conservation projects.

Mr Amesbury alongside Justin Madders and Chris Matheson have written to the Secretary of State for the environment urging the government to reconsider its decision to keep zoos closed indefinitely.

MP for Weaver Vale Mike Amesbury said: "Chester Zoo is the most visited zoo in the country. It's a jewel in the crown of Cheshire, the north west and the country and it's importance for education and conservation simply can't be overstated.

"The zoo is precious to people, that's been made all the more clear by the huge amount of correspondence I've received from constituents who are absolutely devastated at the thought of losing it."

He added: "It goes without saying that safety is the most important thing, but the zoo's administrators are certain they can reopen safely. We need the government to engage with them and have a discussion about how to go about that."

Runcorn and Widnes World:

Zoos currently remain closed indefinitely despite other locations such as shops being given a timetable for reopening.

A spokesperson who of the zoo, which normally receives 97 percent of its income from visitors, said: "The government has ordered that we may have to stay closed indefinitely. It hurts us to say that this crisis has literally left us fighting for our future.

"Thank you to all those who have already donated and fundraised for us. We need you to SAVE OUR ZOO."

So far donations from the public have raised £914,966. If you would like to contribute you can visit the zoo's webpage at: chesterzoo.org/saveourzoo.