A zoo in Norfolk has announced the death of one of its "cherished" cheetahs.

Shaka was born at Westfalischer Zoologischer Garten in Munster, Germany, in 2011 and moved to Banham Zoo in November 2012.

Since then, he spent time at both Banham Zoo and Africa Alive. 

Diss Mercury: He spent much of his life at Banham Zoo and Africa AliveHe spent much of his life at Banham Zoo and Africa Alive (Image: Zoological Society of East Anglia)

A spokesman for the Zoological Society of East Anglia, which runs both zoos, confirmed Shaka was put to sleep after a long battle with ongoing health issues.

He said: "It is with a heavy heart that we announce the recent passing of our cherished cheetah, Shaka.

"Shaka had been under close observation due to age-related health issues.

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"Despite veterinary treatment, sadly there was nothing that could be done for him and, regrettably, the kindest thing was to say goodbye.

"He'll be missed by all of us at the zoo, but our thoughts are particularly with our keepers at this time, who so lovingly cared for him over the years."

Cheetahs in the wild can be expected to live for up to 12 years - but cheetahs under human care often reach 15 years old.