CHESTER Zoo is offering free tickets for children during the scheduled industrial action by teachers in the region tomorrow (Tuesday, February 28).

As the zoo did for the strike day in January, it is inviting children to visit for free and learn about their favourite animals together with its team of educators and rangers.

The conservation zoo has said that there will be a range of activities throughout the day to help youngster connect with nature at no extra cost.

More than half of schools in England are closed or partially closed tomorrow with National Education Union members in the North West due to strike tomorrow over pay, conditions and reform.

Other regions will see strike action later in the week, with the likes of the East and West Midlands members set to strike on Wednesday, March 1 and Wales, south east and south-west England and London members due to walk out on Thursday, March 2.

Several schools in Chester, Ellesmere Port and surrounding areas have taken the decision to close with others prioritising older year groups, such as Queens Park High School, who have said that the school will be open only for Years 11, 12 and 13. Similarly, Blacon High have said that pupils in Year 7 through to Year 11 should stay home.

Chester Zoo have said that the free tickets are limited and must be booked in advance. Children must be accompanied by a paying adult.