A KIND-HEARTED nine-year-old is walking 10km in just a day to raise money for Colchester Zoo.

Maisy Avery, who goes to St Luke's Primary School in Tiptree, is taking on the challenge on Sunday in a bid to collect some cash for the beloved facility.

Colchester Zoo is shut to the public but still faces bills of up to £25,000 a day to feed its animals.

In response to spiralling costs, zoo bosses launched an operating fund appeal asking for supporters' help.

Maisy is collecting cash for this appeal with her walk, which will take her across the countryside surrounding her Tiptree home.

Mum Rebecca said: "When we heard that the zoo may eventually has to close due to lack of funding, it made us very sad like a lot of local people in the area.

"We love the zoo because it has so made so many memories for our family and likewise for many of you out there.

"Maisy wanted to do something to support the zoo so we've decided to do a 10km walk to raise money to help."

She initially set herself a target of raising £100, but has already passed this amount.

Donate at justgiving.com/crowdfunding/maisy4colchesterzoo.