Bosses at Cheshire based Blue Planet Aquarium raise concerns over its survival

After the government gave the green light for zoos, safari parks and drive-in cinemas in England to reopen from June 15, aquariums say they have been forgotten about.

As lockdown restrictions ease, bosses at one of the country's largest aquariums say they too should be allowed to reopen.

Blue Planet Aquarium in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire say they are ready and safe to reopen, but the attraction remains empty and does not know when they will be able to welcome back visitors.

The marine and freshwater aquarium say it has cost a near £500,000 to protect its animals and their habitats during lockdown - despite not receiving income.

Many of its staff have been furloughed whilst some have been kept on to feed the animals and maintain its facilities.

Staff are frustrated and feel they've been overlooked - they warn they must reopen next month to ensure its existence.