Zoo alert over ‘toxic’ bracelet

The popular tourist attraction withdrew the distinctive jewellery from its shelves in December after learning that the bracelets were made from highly toxic jequirity beans.

But the jewellery had been on sale, costing £2.95 each, for several years before the retailer became aware of the danger.

Herts Trading Standards says the beans can cause death if chewed or swallowed.

The jewellery was also sold at 36 other retailers across the country, including London Zoo and the Eden Project in Cornwall. Whipsnade Zoo has already accepted some bracelet returns.