LEADING crime novelist Ruth Rendell has been name Chester Zoo’s new vice-president.

The elephant-loving author has taken on the role, having long supported the zoo and the conservation work it carries out locally and internationally.

Lady Rendell, who is the best-selling author of the Inspector Wexford series and has sold 20m books worldwide, said: “I am simply delighted to become Vice-President of the North of England Zoological Society.

“It marks the beginning of a wonderful new chapter in my life.”

Lady Rendell, who sits in the house of Lords for Labour, has named two of the zoo’s elephants – the latest being Jamilah who was born in January.

She added: “I’ve been coming to Chester zoo for the last 12 years and have enjoyed each visit more than the last.

“But after naming two Asian elephants it has become even more of a joy.

“It’s a wonderful place with good people doing some vital work for the conservation of a vast number of different species.”

Chester Zoo’s director, Dr Mark Pilgrim, said: “I am absolutely thrilled that Lady Rendell has agreed to become our third Vice- President.

“The news makes this a very important day in the zoo’s history.”