WEST Midland Safari Park announced a number of animal births over the last year, but it wasn't just the animals at the attraction who experienced a baby boom.

While the rhinos, giraffes and African painted dogs welcomed new arrivals - there were eight members of staff at the Park who were preparing for their very own special arrivals - all within a year.

First came baby Carmen, born on February 18, 2016, to the Park's management accountant Stella Painter. Followed by Annabelle, born on October 10, to the Park's events officer, Gemma Southall.

November saw the arrival of three baby boys within 11 days - Owen, George and Toby.

Owen's parents are artist, Simon Hughes, and mother Laura - who met at the Park when Laura worked at the theme park. Toby's parents also met at the Park, when mother Natalie, worked as a telephonist, and met father, Alex Harris, who is the deputy creative manager. The Park's commercial manager, Hannah Price, is mother to George, who was born on November 13.

Just before Christmas, on December 19, project manager, Neil James, welcomed the arrival of baby Joseph - who's mother, Judith, also used to work at the Park on admissions.

Finally, animal keepers Alice and Huw Owen-Jones celebrated the appearance of baby Joey on January 27, this year.

And, as an extra special treat for the new parents, the Safari Venues team put on an early Mother's Day celebration at Spring Grove House.

Ian Warrington, Safari Venues general manager, said: "It is always a time to celebrate when a member of our team has a baby, but to have so many members of staff - past and present - welcoming new arrivals in the space of a year is truly amazing."

He added: "Mother's Day Lunch has always been a great tradition in the past for Spring Grove House.

"This year we thought we would treat the new mums and dads to an early Mother's Day lunch, in preparation for the main event on March 26, and to also celebrate their new arrivals.

"All the babies were very well behaved and we enjoyed showing off what Spring Grove House can provide for families."

Mother's Day Lunch will be held at Spring Grove House, on Sunday, March 26. As well as serving a traditional three-course lunch, mums will receive a special gift and free admission to the Safari Park.

Bookings can be made online by visiting eventbrite.co.uk/e/mothers-day-lunch-in-spring-grove-house-tickets-31414182666, or calling 01299 406460.

For more information, visit the Safari Venues website safarivenues.co.uk.