TRIBUTES to Australian 'crocodile hunter' Steve Irwin have been made by staff at Port Lympne wild animal park.

The conservationist and television personality was last at the park in November, when he met young fans on a special day out.

The 44-year-old died after being struck by a stingray during a diving expedition at the Great Barrier Reef, off the coast of Australia.

Damian Aspinall and James Osbourne from Port Lympne released a statement.

It read: "We are all devastated at the news of the untimely death of our great friend.

"Steve was a regular visitor to both Howletts and Port Lympne and his energy and incredible rapport with all species always ensured an appreciative and fascinated audience."