A campaign has been launched to make Chester Zoo the UK's first National Zoo.

Chester Zoo is the country's most visited zoo, attracting more than two million visitors a year - almost twice as many as London Zoo. It is also the UK's most visited paid-for attraction outside London.

Carrying out vital conservation work across the UK and in 20 countries around the world, the zoo also engages hundreds of thousands of learners every year through its education programmes.

The petition is being led by Cheshire Police and Crime Commissioner Dan Price, who is the Labour and Co-operative candidate for mayor of Cheshire and Warrington. He says National Zoo status would not require additional government funding.

Campaigners say the recognition could also help support Chester's visitor economy and bring wider benefits to the region.

PCC Dan Price said: "Almost everyone in the North West has a memory of visiting Chester Zoo. It's a much-loved place, and it's doing conservation work that reaches around the world.

"We've got a National Gallery and a National Theatre, but no national zoo. I want to change that.

"Recognising Chester Zoo would back a world-class organisation right here in Cheshire, and show that Britain is leading the way on conservation.

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"I'm calling on everyone, all over the county to get behind this campaign. Chester Zoo is an organisation that is part of our county's family, so let's make sure it gets the recognition it deserves."

You can find out more and sign the petition here.