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Name a cockroach after your ex this Valentine's Day at Hemsley Conservation Centre

A zoo is bringing back the chance to name a cockroach in honour of an ex for Valentine's Day.

The Hemsley Conservation Centre (HCC) in Fairseat, near Gravesend, is offering people the chance to get revenge to raise money for future projects.

A Madagascan hissing cockroach
A Madagascan hissing cockroach

After receiving more than 15,000 names last year and raising around £20,000, HCC has decided to do the event again. Naming a cockroach costs just £1.50.

Operations manager, Henry Weedon, said: "Last year took us by huge surprise.

"We couldn't make the name board big enough. There were 10,000 names on that and then an additional book for the rest."

Henry added: "Last year's donations really helped us.

"It went into repairing pathways, adding plants to enclosures and expanding and upgrading our feeding room."

Adam Hemsley, left, and team leader Henry Weedon
Adam Hemsley, left, and team leader Henry Weedon

Purchases also included a new pump and water filter for the otter enclosure, heaters and UV lights, heavy duty dens for the tayra and a new monkey house.

The money has also helped fund staff training and education workshops.

As well as naming a cockroach after someone you don't like, this year HCC is offering people the chance to treat someone they do like to a gift box filled with luxury, handmade and vegan-friendly soap, shampoo bar and bath truffles from The Kentish Soap Company.

To find out more or name a cockroach in honor of an ex visit: www.hemsleyconservationcentre.com

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