CHILDREN were wide-eyed with wonder when exotic creatures from all corners of the globe descended on a Darlington nursery school.
Giant snails and cockroaches from Africa, an owl from Asia, and a tortoise and toad from South America were among the guests at Elm Ridge Methodist Church Pre-School.
While getting hands on and up close with the creatures, children heard about their habits and habitats during a visit from Teesside-based Animal Story.
Pre-school manager Sue Walker said: “It was a great experience for the children and they had a fantastic time.
“It can also help children overcome any initial fears of animals they may have.”
The pre-school has been running for more than 25 years in the grounds of Elm Ridge Methodist Church, a Victorian former Pease family home on Carmel Road.
It runs during term time from Monday to Friday between 9.15am and 12.15pm, with places for children aged two to four.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here