A Scots zoo has paid tribute to one of their most popular members of staff after he tragically passed away.
Five Sisters Zoo confirmed that George Copeland, father of co-owner Shirley Curran, died on Friday morning (July 9) at the age of 80.
Posting on Facebook, staff the zoo in West Calder, near Livingston, described the news as a "very sad day", and paid tribute to the man who helped the Curran's build the zoo from the ground up.
An important face around the park, George could regularly be spotted running a burger van for hungry visitors.
In a post on social media, the zoo said: "Today is a very sad day for us all at FSZ, George Copland, father of Shirley, co-owner of the zoo sadly passed away this morning after a short illness aged 80 years.
"George was instrumental in helping develop the Zoo in the early years as a craftsman fencer and many of the fences he built are still standing.
"In his later years, his passion was the burger van in the zoo which he took great pride in. George will be sadly missed by family, friends and visitors alike."
Upon hearing the news, a number of local residents and visitors shared their condolences to the family, with many sharing stories and kind words about George.
One visitor said: "He was a brilliant and funny man, he will be missed. Thoughts are with you all."
Another replied: "On our very first visit to the zoo a couple of years ago this lovely man took some time and spoke to us and told us all about what a great job the zoo was doing in helping all these animals.
"He was so nice and spoke with so much pride.
"It was only a couple of minutes but we honestly have never forgotten him. My thoughts are with the entire Five Sisters Zoo family."
While a former colleague posted: "So very sorry to here the sad news of George passing away.
"I had the great pleasure of working with George had loads of fantastic times my thoughts are with Shirley and Brian and the family at this sad time."
A local shop owner spoke about what a privilege it was to know George, writing: "Absolutely gutted to hear this morning of his passing, he came every Thursday and Sunday to my shop from lockdown to get my spare rolls for the animals at the zoo.
"We had great blethers ones l will treasure forever. George, you taught me so much in such a short time. I wish l had known you longer. My deepest sympathy goes out to your lovely family that you always spoke so highly of."
