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Snoopy - the Isle of Wight Zoo's iconic lion - has died.
Snoopy died yesterday (Thursday) after vets discovered a cancerous tumour in his mouth, during what was thought to be a routine dental procedure.
It was decided to put Snoopy to sleep to avoid him suffering as the tumour increased in size.
Zoo director, Charlotte Corney, who has cared for Snoopy since he was 18 months old, paid tribute to the 'Island's lion'.
"He was a lion king - a real character.
"He was quite volatile and moody and he definitely had his moments but he was a huge force of energy around the zoo and for that reason the place will seem very quiet.
"There wasn't a dry eye in the place yesterday.
"He'll be sorely missed by all of us and his brother Charlie Brown, who is already confused because he has never gone this long without his brother.
"Snoopy was a grand age for a lion, in the wild ten years would be normal and although we're very sad, we're glad he won't suffer now."
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