A DETERMINED animal lover is preparing to embark on a lengthy walk in aid of his beloved Colchester Zoo, which is currently facing the threat of closure.

Nathan Francis, 21, born and raised in Colchester, works at the popular attraction as a catering host and will embark on a staggering 171km walk to help save it.

The keen rambler, who believes next Thursday's walk around the borough will take 37 hours, is taking on the challenge on behalf of Colchester Zoo.

Money raised will also go towards the zoo's Action For The Wild charity.

The charity was launched to assist animal well-being projects across the world, and since 2004, more than £2 million has been donated to conservation projects.

“The lockdown has had a major impact on the funding of our zoological garden, as well as money needed for food, power, waters, waters and upkeep,” said Nathan.

“Colchester Zoo is loved by many people around Colchester and Essex, and the money raised will hopefully save this attraction.

“All the proceeds are going to the Zoo to help maintain its place in our community, so children, families and animal lovers can explore the wild for years to come.”

Nathan, will be setting off from his home in Monkwick, before heading down to Mersea and then across to Tiptree.

Then, he will venture back up towards Bures, before walking to East Bergholt, down through Colchester, and then to the small village of Fordham.

From here, he will head across to Layer de la Haye, before fittingly concluding his monumental walk outside the very place he is striving to save, Colchester Zoo.

Speaking about why he decided to embark on a lengthy stroll to raise the funds, which will see him walk throughout the middle of the night, he said: “I decided on a walk because I have always loved adventure.

"I walk to work anyway, so, I thought would be comical to walk to work, but to take that walk around the entire borough of Colchester.

"I guess I am either stupid, foolhardy, or believe in my self far too much, but in all seriousness, it is a challenge I feel like I can do.

"There is nothing in the dark which can hurt me, except maybe cars and lorries, but other than that, I am sure it will be absolutely fine."

To sponsor Nathan and donate to the Action for the Wild charity, visit gofundme.com/f/operation-walkies.