Tributes pour in as zoo mourns loss of beloved gorilla

By Lauren Beavis via SWNS

Tributes have been paid to Great Britain's oldest and 'beloved' male gorilla - who passed away aged 42.

Paignton Zoo , in Devon, has announced the death of the UK's oldest known silverback gorilla named Pertinax.

The zoo said Pertinax, a western lowland gorilla, had been a "beloved" member of the family and among supporters and visitors since his arrival 27 years ago.

Pertinax was renowned as a celebrity figure too - having inspired books and even starred as Hank in CBBC’s ‘The Zoo’ .

Zoo keepers at Paignton Zoo, along with the dedicated veterinary team, were with him when he passed away on Tuesday.

It is believed that Pertinax had been showing symptoms of an underlying illness that had not responded to extensive treatment.

Paignton Zoo said Pertinax first arrived at their doors in 1997 - and 'quickly became a fan favorite in the community'.

In a statement, the zoo said: "We knew immediately that he was special, thanks to his calm yet somewhat cheeky personality.

"In 2006, he was joined by our three younger males; Kiondu, Kivu and N’Dowe.

"Pertinax took on the role of a father figure, raising the three juveniles into the gentle, sociable silverbacks that they are today.

"Since his arrival 27 years ago, Pertinax had become something of a celebrity, inspiring books and even starring as Hank in CBBC’s ‘The Zoo’.

"His legacy extends beyond our zoo, touching the hearts of fans across the country.

"We feel incredibly privileged to have cared for Pertinax for nearly three decades.

"He was truly one of a kind and his loss will be felt deeply by our community, especially by his keepers who knew him best.

"We humbly ask for your support and kindness during this difficult time."

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