MARWELL has become the first UK zoo to host a collection of giant Lego brick animals, thanks to a Bordon-based business.

Eighty-one sculptures, representing 27 species, have been installed at the attraction, offering an unusual trail to connect people with nature.

Lego building company Bright Bricks, of Woolmer Way, used more than two million bricks to make the sculptures, which will be at the zoo until October 1.

Among them are a 1.5-tonne elephant, a Bengal tiger and a majestic lion with playful cubs. Other sculptures are inspired by Marwell’s own diverse collection of animals, with an ostrich, a pair of warthogs and a mob of animatronic meerkats all featuring.

Lego fans of all ages can also try their hand at making their own brick creations in The Great Brick Building Zone.

For £3 visitors can build a mini Lego figure to take home. Free-of-charge activities include a ’Python Marathon’ where an attempt is being made to make a record-breaking brick snake.

As part of the Great Brick Safari, sculpture spotters can find out the number of builders, hours taken, weight and bricks used for each of the Lego animals featured, apart from the elephant ’Earl Grey’.

Winners of a competition to guess the number of bricks in the elephant will win a tour of Bright Bricks.

The Great Brick Safari is included with general admission.