A High 5 award-winning Swansea primary school pupil embarked on the wildlife adventure of a lifetime as a reward for her positive and caring attitude.
On Wednesday, October 28, High 5 winner, Carys Benson, came face to face with rhinos Zambo, Jambo, and Zuberi at Anna’s Welsh Zoo at Manor Wildlife Park after they stepped in to help award organisers give her a special treat.
Plasmarl Primary pupil Carys, aged nine, won the High 5 community award for the up to 13 age group after she impressed judges with the way she dedicates so much of her time to helping others without wanting anything in return.
The polite and courteous pupil was nominated by school meals’ staff for deciding to help younger pupils during lunchtimes, reassuring and comforting them when they were upset, and then helping staff clear up after lunch.
As part of her prizes, she and her family went to the zoo and had a VIP experience where she got meet the zoo’s three rhinos up close and personal.
Carys also got to look a rhino in the eye, see a rhino’s bedroom, see the layout of their state-of-the-art house, and work with the keepers to care for them.
Zoo owner Anna Ryder-Richardson said: “We are delighted to support the High 5 awards because they highlight and celebrate inspiring children and young people.
“We are particularly glad to welcome Carys for her hugely positive and caring attitude which is inspiring her fellow pupils.
“Everyone at the zoo ensured that she and her family had a special day to remember.”
Leon Britton, Swansea FC star and awards ambassador, said: “I am very grateful for the way businesses come on board and help the High 5 awards celebrate young people, reward them for being the best they can be and enable them to inspire others.
“Carys has been good helping others, it’s lovely she has got a treat. I hope she loved every moment.”