Zoom has become the way many people have kept in touch with loved ones during lockdown and has aptly been chosen as the winning name for a zebra foal born at a Cumbrian animal park.

The Lake District Wildlife Park launched a social media competition last week asking for quirky name suggestions for the little colt.

Staff were blown away by the response with about 250 suggestions in total, making it a very tough job.

Lucy Dunn, education and marketing coordinator, said there were a lot of unique suggestions but Zoom was eventually chosen from a shortlist.

“It was voted as a positive name for our zebra who will be zooming around the field,” she said. “Zoom was also chosen as it is the means by which a lot have people have been staying in contact in these difficult times, which is a positive thing.”

It was suggested by Hazel Dobson, Lorna Turner and Natalie Brown’s children.

Lucy continued: "We were overwhelmed by the response and did not expect to see so many different names suggested. It was great to see so many people getting involved and having a bit of fun despite the current situation."

The Lake District Wildlife Park, based at Bassenthwaite, reopened on June 15.

Lucy said extra safety measures are working well and the public have been very supportive.

"Many of our long-term visitors couldn't wait to get back to see their favourite animals they had missed during lockdown and have renewed their annual passes," she added.

"It is great to see people out enjoying the fresh air and open space that we have, with the added benefit of some amazing animals."