Tributes paid to keeper killed in 'freak accident' at Hamerton Zoo

The Air ambulance was called to the scene

Tributes have been paid to a zookeeper in Cambridgeshire who was killed in a "freak accident" after a tiger entered the enclosure she was in.

Rosa King, who's been named in reports, died at Hamerton Zoo near Huntingdon yesterday (29 May).

The zoo confirmed it would remain closed on Tuesday while the investigation continues Credit: ITV News Anglia

Police were called around 11.15am following reports of a serious incident and visitors were safely evacuated from the site.

Rosa has been described as a "shining light" who was "absolutely passionate" about the animals in her care.

Officers attended a serious incident at Hamerton Zoo Park, Steeple Girding, at around 11.15am. Credit: ITV News Anglia

Garry Chisholm, 59, a wildlife photographer in his spare time who knew Ms King through visiting the attraction in Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, said the zoo revolved around the keeper.

Mr Chisholm, from Irchester, Northamptonshire, told the Press Association: "Rosa wasn't just a keeper at Hamerton Zoo - she was Hamerton Zoo.

"She was the absolute central point of it, the focal point of it. She was the shining light of it. It revolved around her.

"Her passion for the animals in her care was exceptional though her favourites were undoubtedly the cheetahs which she would refer to as her pride and joy.

"I feel privileged to have known Rosa and been able to call her a friend.

"She will be greatly missed, not just by me, but by everyone who came to know her."

Police say the incident is not believed to be suspicious. Credit: ITV News Anglia

Cambridgeshire police say no animal escaped and no member of the public was harmed.

Hamerton Zoo say the park will remain closed today as investigations continue.