SALT from Middlewich is helping make a home from home for a group of penguins who have relocated to the UK from South America.

The donation has been made by Tata Chemicals Europe and will be put to good use at the West Midland Safari Park to replicate marine conditions for the 14 Humboldt penguins.

Salt water is an essential ingredient for the health and well-being of the aquatic birds and there is a constant need for staff to add salt to the fresh water.

British Salt, in Booth Lane became part of the India-based Tata group when it was bought by soda ash manufacturer Brunner Mond in 2011, and has provided salt free of charge to the Worcester park for its sea lion pool since 2004.

The company said it was more than happy to extend its donation to the new penguins and deliveries of up to 20 tonnes of salt are made two-to-three times a year.

On average, just under three tonnes of salt is added to the penguin pool water by hand every month and approximately eight tonnes to the seas lions’ home.

Tim Brown, business manager, said: “We are delighted to be able to offer this helping hand to the safari park and extend our support to the new penguins.

“During the years we have built a great relationship and we know what an important part the salt plays in the health and well-being of the sea lions and, now, the penguins.”

The penguins are a new addition to the park and are housed in a specially-created cove that includes a pool and semi-submerged beach, waterfall, sculptures and nesting areas with glass-fronted viewing areas.

Bob Lawrence, director of wildlife at West Midland Safari Park, added: “The kind donation of salt to our marine department is pivotal in creating an appropriate habitat for the penguins and sea lions.

“It allows us to direct our own resources on research, education and conservation.

“It is difficult to overstate the value that these contributions have and we extend our gratitude to Tata Chemicals Europe for its ongoing support.”