Bugtopia at Rutland Water has been re-branded as Rutland Zoo and is expected to reopen next month under new management

An array of new animals will be making their home in Rutland when a popular attraction reopens next month.

The Bugtopia centre at Rutland Water closed to visitors in March when the country went into lockdown.

It has since been taken over by an animal rescue team from Corby who have re-branded the attraction as Rutland Zoo and hope to open on January 1.

Owner Joanna Aldwinkle said: “The zoo was gifted to us by Bugtopia and we are determined to carry on their incredible work.

“We are absolutely honoured that they trusted us with their baby, and we want to make them proud that they made the right choice.”

Joanna will run the zoo with her husband Jez and their close friends Richard Mundon and Vanessa Ainsworth.

They set up the Midlands Giant Species Snake Rescue five years ago which rehomes reptiles.

Although their hobby is focused on snakes, Rutland Zoo will showcase a range of reptiles, mammals and birds.

Some of the possible newcomers include caiman crocodiles, binturongs and Asian monitor lizards.

Joanna said: “Our priority will be animal welfare and we hope to get involved with some conservation projects.

“This will be their ‘forever home’ so we will only bring in different species where it is practical and appropriate.”

The zoo will retain its existing staff, who are working on site to prepare for the opening.

Their new exhibits will also include British wildlife with fact files on creatures such as hedgehogs and harvest mice.

Joanna said: “We want to educate people about the wildlife on their doorsteps as well as the more exotic creatures. It’s particularly important for the next generation.”

The team will also offer animal encounters for visitors to get closer to the zoo’s residents.

The zoo will operate as a not-for-profit organisation so will rely heavily on visitor numbers to keep things running.