A "beloved" leopard which has lived in Kent for almost 20 years has died.

Bosses at The Big Cat Sanctuary in Smarden, near Ashford, have announced the death of their Amur leopard, Xizi.

A cat with a "gentle and captivating nature", Xizi moved to the sanctuary in 2007 when she was just two years old.

However, she had to be put to sleep after suffering from several age-related issues in what keepers said was a "difficult decision".

A spokesman for the conservation centre said: "Xizi joined us at The Big Cat Sanctuary when she was just two years old, and, throughout her time here, was loved by all.

"Xizi was known not only for her striking beauty but also for her gentle and captivating nature.

"She held a special place in all our hearts and her unique love heart-shaped marking beneath her eye became an iconic feature that we will never forget.

"She was an incredibly important part of the breeding programme by having a total of four cubs and even becoming a grandmother.

"While also being an amazing mum, she also had her playful side, with her favourite enrichment being anything covered in marmite.

"Having lived here for 17 years she was cherished by everyone. Xizi will be deeply missed by all."

Labelled as critically endangered, The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) says there are about 80 amur leopards left in the wild today.

The species, which is native to eastern Russia and usually weights between 70 and 105 pounds, has been reported to leap more than 19 feet horizontally and 10 feet vertically, as well as being able to reach speeds of up to 37 miles per hour.

Xizi's passing comes less than two months after the sanctuary marked the arrival of an African lioness called Yuna.

She is one of five lions who will eventually arrive at the centre as part of its 'Big Cats in Crisis' campaign.

The initiative will allow a forever home to be provided to the animals who were previously living at the Wildlife Animal Rescue (WAR) in Kyiv - a site which has seen debris blasted close to her enclosure as a result of the country's war with Russia.

Yuna will soon be joined by Rori, Amani, Lira, and Vanda, who are all at holding facilities while they await to make the journey to Kent.

Those wishing to donate to the Big Cats in Crisis campaign can do so here.

The sanctuary has raised more than £440,000 of its £500,000 target which will go towards transportation costs, veterinary treatment and help fund the construction of its Lion Rescue Centre.