Legendary American comedian WC Fields famously said “never work with children or animals”.

But his advice will have to be ignored by anyone interested in mixing it with some of the world’s most majestic creatures at Howletts.

Because the animal park in Bekesbourne is advertising for a tiger keeper and an intern to work with gorillas.

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The zoo is after an experienced carnivore keeper who will also look after honey badgers, Asian wild dogs and clouded leopards.

The successful candidate will also work with Sumatran tigers and contribute to the breeding programmes of several species.

But no experience is required for the intern, who will work with one of the world’s largest captive populations of western lowland gorillas.

The candidate should be able to demonstrate what previous education and experience would make them suitable for the role. A commitment of a six to 12 months would be needed.

The hours would be from 8am to 5pm, five days per week, which may include weekends.

Park bosses say they are offering comprehensive training.

The park is most famous for having some of the largest family groups of western lowland gorillas in the world.

It is also home to the largest breeding herd of African elephants in the UK and has one of the largest breeding groups of lion-tailed macaques in the world.