THE photographer at West Midland Safari Park has won an award for capturing the moment a playful young rhino challenged an older member of the herd to a dual.

The striking image, captured by Matthew Lissimore, scooped the top award at this year's National Zoo and Aquarium Photo Awards.

Matthew said: "It's a real privilege being able to observe and photograph animals as part of my job at West Midland Safari Park.

"Spending time with these animals and getting to know their habits, allows me to witness intimate moments in their lives.

"I hope that through my photography and creative work I can help to raise awareness for the conservation of threatened species in the wild.”

The park won another national award for Best Animal or Sea Life Attraction for Groups at the 2019 Group Travel Awards.

Sue Day, group visit co-ordinator at West Midland Safari Park, said: “We welcome many group and coach parties to our attraction throughout the year, for both standard day visits and a variety of special events like Santa Safari.

"We really are so proud to be the recipients of this award and to be recognised for continuing to deliver a fantastic day out to our guests.

"To be singled out as the best by these visitors is praise indeed.”