A NEW animal bus has been launched in preparation to the build-up of Colchester Zoo’s 60th anniversary celebrations.

The all-new animal bus boasts a striking design which draws inspiration from some of the zoo's iconic inhabitants.

The colourful vehicle was unveiled at Colchester Zoo on Saturday, July 30, marking the beginning of celebrations to the zoo’s 60th anniversary next year.

Families heading in and out of the zoo on the day were able to meet Tommy Tall, the stilt-walking bus driver, as well as the chance to explore the bus and enjoy craft activities.

The design features two colourful representations of an elephant and an orangutan, whilst also incorporating a diamond pattern, in order to mark the diamond anniversary.

The dazzling new bus marks a partnership between First Essex and Colchester Zoo, creating a new look for one of the buses which bring visitors to the site each day.

The bus will be seen driving around the Colchester area, and will be one of the three buses operating on the 75 service which drops off and picks up visitors to the zoo each day.

Colchester Zoo was established in 1963 by zoologists Frank and Helena Farrah.

The animal bus will be in service throughout the anniversary year to mark the milestone.

Melissa Dench, business development manager at Colchester Zoo, said: “Seeing the bus arrive onsite for the first time was an exciting moment.

“Colchester Zoo’s 60th anniversary will be such a special occasion next year, so we are thrilled to have this new bus touring the roads of Essex as we build up to that celebration.”

Garry Nicholas, commercial director at First Essex, said: "We are delighted to have partnered with Colchester Zoo in the creation of the animal bus.

“For many years, First Essex has provided bus services, dropping off and picking up passengers heading to the zoo.

“To join in the zoo’s anniversary celebrations in this way is another example of our commitment to providing great services for the communities we operate in.”