A HAMPSHIRE zoo has revealed its planned opening date after the latest government announcement.

Marwell Zoo in Colden Common was forced to close its doors to the public at the start of the year when the third national lockdown began.

Now though, following the government's announcement on Monday, it says it will hopefully be open from April 12, subject to the guidance at the time.

This does mean however, that the zoo will remain closed over the Easter period, normally one of its busiest times of the year.

As previously reported, a JustGiving page has been set up to help support the zoo throughout the pandemic as it has lost millions in revenue, but running costs still remain high.

In a social media post, Marwell Wildlife, the charity that runs Marwell Zoo, advised those interested in visiting to keep checking its website and social media for updates.

This comes after police were called to the zoo last week after intruders allegedly broke in and abused the animals.

The incident took place overnight on February 15, and four people were subsequently arrested.