Miracle tortoise survives Jungle Box mini-zoo fire horror after fears all animals died

Miracle tortoise survives Jungle Box mini-zoo fire horror after fears all animals died A tortoise has survived the devastating fire at a mini-zoo which killed all other animals at the play centre A miracle tortoise is the only animal to have survived after a fire took hold at a play centre and mini-zoo in Buntingford, Hertfordshire. Fire crews shared the news on Facebook after they discovered the baby tortoise alive in the aftermath of the blaze. Crews from Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue service had initially thought all animals had died in the horror fire. Posting a photo of the tiny survivor, the service wrote: "We have some heartwarming news to share following yesterday’s devastating fire at the Jungle Box in Buntingford. "While carrying out the fire investigation, we incredibly discovered a baby tortoise alive in the aftermath, despite earlier fears that all the animals had died. A small but powerful moment after a very difficult incident." Investigations into the cause of the fire are still ongoing. Ten fire engines were dispatched to The Jungle Box on the Watermill Industrial Estate in Buntingford, Hertfordshire after the blaze was reported at around 3am on Wednesday morning. The soft play centre, which opened in June last year included a mini zoo and pets corner that was home to a number of small animals, including meercats, owls, iguanas giant tortoises and a 16ft snake. Black smoke could be seen billowing from the building as local residents were urged to keep their windows and doors closed. Road closures were put in place on Aspenden Road and London Road. A neighbouring business, The Spud Twins, expressed their sadness at the news in a heartfelt post on social media. It said: "Absolutely devastated for our friends over at the jungle box soft play. If anyone has a visit booked or a party – you will be contacted in due course."