A popular gorilla at Canterbury’s Howletts zoo has died of a suspected stroke.

Ju ju was one of the park’s original female gorillas born in the wild and one of its main attractions.

She had eight successful births, including the mighty Kijo, the first gorilla born at the park in Bekesbourne in 1975.

Members of the Aspinall family, who own Howletts and Port Lympne near Hythe, announced the death at the weekend.

They said: “She died peacefully on 22nd January 2016 of a suspected stroke, at the age of 54.

“Ju ju will be missed by all who knew he,r especially fellow 'Grande dame' Baby Doll, who shared her enclosure.”

Staff will remember with fondness Ju ju’s playfulness and her gorilla giggle.

She was also well known at the parks for singing in anticipation of her supper.

A spokesman for the park said: “Her descendants, including silverback Kifu, are well represented at the two parks and in other European collections.

“Ju Ju was one of the most important gorillas from Howletts and Port Lympne, who have ensured that the healthy European gorilla studbook now stands on such firm footing.”