CHAMPAGNE corks are popping at Blackpool Zoo as staff celebrate winning one of Europe's most prestigious animal welfare awards for their Gorilla Mountain feature.

The award has been made by UFAW (The Universities Federation for Animal Welfare) which was founded in 1926 at the University of London.

The first prize award is in the Federation's Zoo Animal Welfare category which is made for a new or improved exhibit judged to best cater for the well-being of the species in captivity. UFAW aims to encourage the highest standards of care and to promote the welfare of zoo animals.

Judges decided that the Zoo's Gorilla Mountain exhibit was worthy of the nation's top prize in this category.

In receiving this honour Blackpool Zoo has joined the ranks of other top UK animal parks, including Bristol Zoo, who were last year's winners demonstrating to a panel of expert judges a "real commitment to enriching the lives of their animals".

Blackpool Zoo spokesperson Tony Williams, said: "This is about as good as it gets as far as animal welfare recognition is concerned.

"UFAW is an internationally highly respected and worthy organisation. Its involvement in animal welfare is well known throughout world and their recognition of our work is a tremendous honour .

"The award is also a testament to the hard work undertaken by everyone here at Blackpool Zoo who has been involved with Gorilla Mountain enabling us to reach such a recognised high standard.

"Our three gorillas have continuous access to the 'Mountain' throughout the day and enjoy spending their time in the existing paddock and enclosure as well as their Island retreat."

The award will be presented to Blackpool Zoo at a celebrity ceremony the date of which will be announced soon.

Last week the Citizen reported that the Blackpool Zoo was up for grabs following a council decision to put its management and operation out to tender.

Blackpool Borough Council is to finalise details in the future.

Blackpool Pleasure Beach boss Geoffrey Thompson has not ruled out the possibility of making a bid for control of the animal park.

Sarah Dornford-May, the amusement park's spokeswoman, said: "We haven't discussed it, but who is to say yes or no."