St Francis of Assisi is said to have loved animals as his "brothers and sisters" and even to have preached to birds.

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In her eulogy, Emma Gowing said her sister "loved animals and being able to practice as a vet was for her a dream come through".

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"He just loved animals, " Mr Miles told BBC News.

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As for the highlights, I loved checking out the animals and watching the King's Troop and the Kangaroo Kid performing in the main ring.

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More than 60% of the 3, 000 species surveyed have declined over the last 50 years, including some much loved and familiar plants and animals like the lesser spotted woodpecker, the hedgehog, the natterjack toad and the High Brown Fritillary and Wood White butterflies.

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"This is not to say that animals should not be loved or cared for, " he added.

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Donors were also given the option to give in memory of their special pet, or in memory of a loved one who cared deeply for animals.

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Loved ones can add "tribute gifts" such as roses, candles, stuffed animals and other items, while mourners can access photos and videos in a "Memory Book" and leave remembrances of their own.

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