THE SUNSHINE was too much for some yesterday - so who can blame these penguins for taking the plunge?

TV star Dan Lobb was on hand to open the penguins' new home - but they were more concerned with taking a dip to escape the 24C heat.

The Daybreak presenter was at Marwell Wildlife to open the penguins' enclosure and unveil a special commemorative mosaic designed by local schoolchildren featuring several animals found at Marwell.

Dan, who grew up in Colden Common and was born just a few months before Marwell opened, said he had enjoyed visiting the park for years.

He said: “I was born about one-and-a-half miles away from Marwell and have got fond memories of coming here with my family. Being invited down to part of the 40th birthday celebrations and to open Penguin Cove was a real privilege and I do not think they realised how excited I was when the invitation was extended.”

Dan, who presents Daybreak on ITV, added: “What they have done with penguin Cove is indicative of what they have done over the years. It's always been at the forefront of conservation, animal welfare and creating the best possible experience for visitors.”

The new enclosure was funded by a £250,000 grant from the Stainer Charitable Trust which has been spent on improving water quality through better filtration and adding isolation and quarantine units so new arrivals can adjust to their habitat.

Marwell chief executive James Cretney said he was thrilled with the work of the children on the mosaic.

He said: “We now have a wonderful piece of outdoor art that is stunning and celebrates what the minds of local children think of Marwell. I think Marwell has an awful lot to offer and as long as we continue to offer great value to customers we can go on doing good work in the UK and overseas.”