Belfast Zoo, which closed nearly two weeks ago because of the severe weather conditions, is to reopen on Friday. Snowfall of up to two feet deep caused significant damage to the zoo's facilities.

Staff have worked with teams from Belfast City Council and a number of contractors to return the site to normal conditions. This has included removing numerous fallen trees, repairing enclosures and clearing roads and pathways .

Zoo manager Mark Challis said the original aim was to reopen tomorrow, but there was still essential maintenance work to be done, including repairs to the Sumatran tiger and African wild dog enclosures.

From Friday , the zoo will have a full schedule of animal feeding times. Visitors will also be able to see the latest arrivals – four Tamworth piglets born during the Easter weekend.