CRUMPLE (pictured) is in clover -- well sunflowers, actually.

All the animals at Blackpool Zoo have been enjoying the recent warm weather, but none more than the Indian elephant whose exercise field is filled with sunflowers grown especially to feed the primates at the zoo.

In terms of visitors, August was the best at the zoo for more than ten years. A record 70,000 people passed through the turnstiles last month, the greatest number since 1988.

And, say staff, it could have something to do with the sunshine.

Even the gorillas have decided to venture out on to their new mountain after weeks of hiding. Head of marketing at the zoo, Tony Williams said: "It's been a brilliant August. The weather always helps, but I think now we are one of the only true family attractions left in Blackpool. And with the new developments and enclosures, visitors can come into even closer contact with the animals."

Zoo manager Iain Valentine says that the number of new additions to the zoo has helped to draw visitors.

"Lemur Wood was a big favourite last year, and visitors are still thrilled to get so close to these fascinating creatures in our unique walk-through," he said. "And we opened Gorilla Mountain, where our three western lowland gorillas are out in the open -- it is an awesome visitor experience."

Children up to the age of 15 can get into the zoo free of charge if they are accompanied by at least one full-paying adult, saving £4, until and including this Sunday (September 10.)