Maidstone Zoo memories wanted at Cobtree Manor Park

Published: 16:45, 01 October 2019 | Updated: 14:40, 04 October 2019

The animals may be long gone, but if you look carefully, you can still see signs of them at the site of Maidstone Zoo.

Cobtree Manor Park in Aylesford, was home to the zoo from 1934 up until 60 years ago when it closed for the final time.

The Elephant House on the former site of Maidstone Zoo still bears the animals' names Picture: Steve Crispe

Sir Garrard Tyrwhitt-Drake, 12 times Mayor of Maidstone, ran the zoo, after taking over from circus owners Bertram Mills.

The elephant house where Gert and Daisy lived still bears their mark, but otherwise memories have faded.

Maidstone council has organised a memories day at the park on Saturday, October 5, from 11am to 3pm for anyone who remembers the zoo to share their memories.

They will be recorded and some used as talking posts for future visitors.

Vickie Harris, 77, who wrote The Story of Maidstone Zoo, said: “My favourites were Gert and Daisy, who were housed in the elephant house, and elephants remain my favourites to this day.”