MEET one of a trio of new arrivals at Blackpool Zoo this week looking dozy after a long drive from his previous home on the south coast.

The Red Pandas arrived at have settled into their temporary accomodation extremely well and are looking forward to meeting their new neighbours over the Easter break.

Red Pandas are smaller than their black and white relatives and are friendlier. They have a reddish brown coat, striped tail and fox-like features with white flashing on their faces and chests. It is not hard to see why they are reputed to be one of the cutest animals on the planet and are in great demand as domestic pets -- which is partly why they are currently an endangered species.

Tony Williams the zoo spokesman is particularly pleased with the park's latest aquisition. He said: "Red Pandas are fabulous animals and are part of an international protective programme. It's very encouraging to know that animal management groups who are in charge of the movement of animals are recognising the importance Blackpool Zoo's role in world wide animal conservation.

"I'm looking forward to seeing the children's faces when they meet these beautiful animals for the first time."

The pandas can be seen in an enclosure at the centre of the zoo until work on their custom built home is completed in approximately two weeks. The zoo is open daily from 10am to 5pm.