TWO keen fundraisers who befriended each other online during the lockdown have managed to generate hundreds of pounds for a much-loved attraction.

Hannah Sibley, 30, from Frinton, and Donna Chessher, 40, from Manningtree, launched a fundraising page in aid of Colchester Zoo.

The pair had been using the platform to sell tickets for a prize-packed raffle which was drawn live on social media last week.

Everything from window cleaning vouchers and a free MOT to afternoon tea cakes and gift sets were up for grabs.

In only seven days, the pair accumulated just shy of £700 in donations - but by the time the raffle was drawn, they had raised more than £1,000.

This money will now be used to help the zoo overcome the financial impacts of the pandemic.

“We wanted to help Colchester Zoo survive,” said Hannah.

“All the animals still needed feeding and caring for, and the staff still needed to attend the zoo, so lots of money needed to be paid with not a penny of income.

“Donna and I were friends on Facebook but only actually met when we started this fundraiser and with more than £1,000 raised, we could not be happier.”

After a lengthy closure, Colchester Zoo has now started to welcome back animal lovers, and Hannah and her family have already visited.

“The zoo is an attraction for lots of families and people travel far to see the animals and lots of people have many great memories there,” added Hannah.

“My mum and auntie used to take me and my siblings and we all had gold passes, and then my sister and I had children and we followed in their footsteps.

“I want my children to be able to take their children and carry on our little tradition because it is an amazing place.

“We could not just sit back and do nothing, we had to help, and we had to take action.”