A CIVIC seal of approval has been given to a college’s Wildlife and Conservation Park and Animal Management Centre by the Lord Mayor of York.

Cllr Barbara Boyce and her party of dignitaries met Askham Bryan College’s animal inhabitants during her tour, including lemurs, armadillo, marmoset, wallabies, skunk and Eric, a Royal Python.

She also visited the conservation project for the rare tansy beetle which is found almost exclusively in the UK around the River Ouse.

She said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my visit; it’s been fascinating to see the extensive range of animals and wonderful teaching facilities. It re-enforces the message that we all need to be aware of conservation.”