STAFF and residents at a care home in Old Hall have been treated to an exciting virtual tour of a much-loved zoo.

Family-run Five Sisters Zoo cares for more than 160 different species of animal from around the world.

Originally a garden centre that helped to rehome unwanted pets, the animal collection grew and grew until the zoo was officially founded in 2005, and it is now the most visited wildlife attraction in West Lothian.

As well as enjoying seeing the animals, those living and working at Westvale House care home enjoyed a presentation showing all the hard work that goes on behind the scenes, as well as the zoo’s vital conservation, rescue and education work.

Adam Welsh, head of education at the zoo who hosted the presentation, said: “We really enjoyed being able to show the Barchester residents some of the fantastic animals we have at Five Sisters Zoo.

Animal adventure for care home residents as they enjoy virtual zoo experience

Animal adventure for care home residents as they enjoy virtual zoo experience

“We are very proud of the work our brilliant teams do, and we were just so happy to be able to share our passion for wildlife conservation and animal rescue.”

Lucy Tomlinson, resident experience manager for Barchester Healthcare, added: “We have been using technology to keep our residents and patients connected with their loved ones, as well as to offer virtual events, entertainment and activities throughout the pandemic.

“We are excited to work with our amazing partners like Five Sisters Zoo to bring a wide range of different experiences into our homes for all to enjoy, particularly as this talk provided such a lovely opportunity to see so many different animals and learn all kinds of fascinating facts about them.

“Our varied life enrichment programme keeps residents active and socially connected, providing a daily choice of engaging physical, mental and spiritual activities tailored to residents’ interests and abilities.”