Tribute unveiled to 'world's oldest' penguin

A tribute has been unveiled to what was believed to be the world's oldest Humboldt penguin after her death aged 32.

Rosie had lived at Sewerby Hall in East Yorkshire since 1990, when she was brought from a bird park in Surrey. She died in March 2023.

Woodcarver Allen Stichler said it was a "joy" to make the artwork, which now takes pride of place at the attraction near Bridlington.

In a social media post, staff said it was an "absolutely perfect" tribute.

Native to South America, Humboldts can live up to 20 years in the wild and are classed as "vulnerable to extinction".

Lincolnshire-based Mr Stichler, who was commissioned by the East Riding of Yorkshire Council-run attraction to produce the work, said: "From talking to visitors, it was clear to me Rosie was such a well known and loved character at Sewerby Hall."

Mr Stichler said the work took four days to make, using a beech tree from Sewerby that fell in a storm.

"I only use mallets and chisels," he said. "Nothing electrical. I'm very medieval."

The tribute has been warmly received by visitors.

One person, posting on Sewerby Hall & Gardens' Facebook page, said they "absolutely love" it, adding: "We were there when the artist started the project, we had a chat with him. What a lovely way to remember Rosie."

Another said: "So beautiful - what a great way to remember Rosie."

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