ALL creatures great and small have been studied by Runcorn schoolchildren as part of a special project.

Pupils at Westfield Primary School have been exploring animals for several months.

To celebrate the retirement of long serving deputy headteacher June Bodenham, the entire school - 160 children and staff – visited Chester Zoo.

The mum-of-three had served for 22 years. Her husband Paul is a former Runcorn firefighter.

Headteacher Claire Dawes said: “June is outstanding, wonderful and very professional. She has given 40 years altogether to teaching.”

An animal extravaganza was held to celebrate the culmination of the animal studies.

Youngsters were able to get up close with snakes, frogs, beetles and a toad.

A falconry show gave them the chance to handle birds of prey.

Children learnt how to ride unicycles, spin plates and diablos at a circus skills workshop.

Ferret racing, donkey rides, magic demonstrations, Punch and Judy, hoopla, bouncy castles, food tent, bran tub stall and face and body painting created a carnival atmosphere.

“The day was a great success,” added Mrs Dawes.

“I’d like to thank all the staff, parents, children and the community for supporting us. We couldn’t do this without them.”