With the sad news that Tropical Wings, in South Woodham Ferrers, will close, people have been sharing their memories of the popular tourist attraction.

The zoo, owned by Dennis and Rona Strong, will close its doors permanently on December 3 due to the owner's ill health.

The animals will all be rehomed, but it is not clear what will happen to the land.

There has been speculation the land will be sold to property developers, but nothing has been confirmed.

We have been unable to get further comment from Tropical Wings.

Have a scroll through some of the photos we have taken over the years at the zoo, and read visitors' memories below.

Stacey Law: "Oh no. Me and my partner had our first date there and we took our son there for the first time only last month. Gutted."

Kirsty Edwards: "Such a shame such a wonderful place to have on our doorsteps. Could Colchester zoo not buy it and manage it so it remains open."

Emma Smith: "So sad. My daughters favourite place. Always top of her list for school holidays."

Brenda Clifford: "I remember in the 80's going to the farm shop shed before it all changed and was a very busy place then. So ripe for house development now, unless a buyer!"

Becky Walsh: "Such a shame we have loved taking our kids there & now grandkids as well. We will definitely miss going there. Nice & local reasonably priced day out."

Stevemo Slade; "Very sad. Been there loads of times over last 5 years with Savanna. Such a lovely little local zoo, will be missed."

Nikki Tuohy: "Genuinely so so sad. Been quite a few times loved it and always want to go more. Great place, great staff, great food so relaxing and of course the animals. Really truly gutted."

Carol Clark: "What a terrible shame isn't there anyone one out there that could take it over."

Janet Brighton: "Oh my what a shame. I been over several years with my family as they growing up.will miss our days out there."

Danielle Lauren Bates: "This is devastating news. We love this place."