Family of boy attacked by crocodile thank zoo staff who rescued him

The family of a three-year-old boy who was seriously injured after ending up in a crocodile enclosure have thanked zoo staff for rescuing their child.

The boy was attacked by at least one crocodile, the BBC understands, at Johnsons of Old Hurst in Cambridgeshire on 18 June.

In a statement issued through Cambridgeshire Police, the family said: "We would like to thank the staff at the zoo who rescued our son from the enclosure... our attention remains focused on his recovery and supporting him through this extremely challenging and prolonged period of time."

Police have arrested and bailed a 30-year-old man on suspicion of attempted murder.

Officers said the boy remained in Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge in a stable condition.

The family's statement added: "We are truly grateful for the public support and well-wishes we have received, as well as to everyone who has been directly involved in our son's care and recovery in hospital."

The boy, who is from Cambridgeshire and was visiting the zoo with his family, was seriously injured "while in the enclosure" and pulled out by zoo staff, police said.

A spokesperson for the force said: "A fundraising page has been set up to support the boy's recovery and rehabilitation, as well as to provide the family with financial stability while they support him in hospital and throughout the coming months."

The fundraising page said: "After undergoing multiple surgeries, his condition is now stable, but he faces a long road to recovery.

"His parents are currently by his side in hospital, supporting him through both immediate and ongoing care physically and psychologically."

Police said the family wished to remain anonymous.

The zoo, which is based at a farm in Old Hurst near Huntingdon, has more than 100 animals, including lions, tigers and meerkats.

The crocodiles were not seized or put down by the authorities.

The arrested man, who is from Norfolk, is believed to have learning disabilities and was on a trip to the zoo with carers.

He is not believed to have known the child.

The man was released on bail until 18 September, and police said he was "assessed as not being fit for interview".

People may be considered unfit for interview because of their physical or mental state.

Do you have a story suggestion for Cambridgeshire? Contact us below.

Follow Cambridgeshire news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.