EXOTIC animal species could be seen at a Newport community centre yesterday.

David Rice, from Shaftesbury’s Community Centre in Evans Street, said around 30 children attended the evenet with their parents.

The 28-year-old said: “It went very well, we have had very good feedback.

“I think we will do it again, but maybe hold three sessions rather than just one.”

The children were able to see and, in some cases, touch lizards, snakes, meerkats and bearcats, among others.

Mr Rice, of Hoskins Street, said the event was about getting the community together.

He also said they are planning on hosting two events over Easter, although details are yet to be confirmed.

Mr Rice, who has been living in Shaftesbury for five years, set up a committee at the centre last year to organise such events.

To find out more about the group, search Shaftesbury Community Centre on Facebook .