THREE young friends from Flintshire have raised over £3,000 for Chester Zoo.

The trio, which consists of Molly Auty from Aston, Finn Cullen and Oliver Collins, decided to set up their own fundraising pages with the target of cycling miles from Flintshire to the popular zoo, which as of yesterday (June 15), stood at a total of £3,095.

Kerry Auty, mother of Molly, said: "Chester Zoo is very close to all our hearts and as parents it’s a wonderful place to take the children, for education and fun.

"To cycle 11 miles is impressive for most people, let alone six-year-olds, we are so proud of their achievement."

Youngster Molly, along with her two friends Finn and Oliver, decided to take action after they were left feeling concerned about what was going to happen to the animals when the zoo had to close to all visitors when the pandemic started.

This resulted in them being encouraged to raise money to ensure that the animals had enough food and care whilst the doors were closed.

The epic trio set off from the Plough on Saturday morning, with their dads, to ride the 11 miles to Chester Zoo.

Alice Cullen, mother to Finn, added: "Finn has been riding since he was four-years-old and really wanted to help the animals.

"We have been in lockdown for 11 weeks and off school, but every day as part of our daily exercise Finn and his dad have been out practicing for this ride.

"Finn was so excited to hear that the zoo was re-opening, and he would be able to go and visit again, and that the money raised will help with the future of the zoo.

"I am so proud of them."

The zoo holds a special place amongst the youngsters, who have revealed what their favourite animals are, with Molly’s being the bats, cheetahs and jaguars because they are so 'cute' and 'fluffy'; Finn's being the elephants due to him having a teddy of one that he takes to bed; and Oliver's being the spider monkeys as he loves that they 'jump really far'.

Will Collins, Oliver’s dad, said: "Their enthusiasm for this fundraiser has been wonderful.

"It was a pleasure to ride alongside them, and their determination didn’t stop all the way, we are all so proud."

Anyone wishing to donate can do so online at https://www.justgiving.com/team/Zoozoom