The chair of the trust that looks after the Llanthony Secunda Priory in Gloucester has resigned, because he needs to spend more time at the zoo.

James Kitto informed the Llanthony Secunda Priory Trust of his decision to stand down due to the "increased pressures" of his job.

Mr Kitto was appointed chair of the Trust in 2016, the same time as starting a job as head of guest services at Bristol Zoo.

Earlier this year, he became head of commercial operations at the zoo and it is the demands of this role that has forced him to stand down from the Llanthony Secunda Priory Trust.

In a statement, the Trust said: "James Kitto has recently resigned as Chair of Llanthony Secunda Priory Trust due to increased pressures with his present employer.

"The Trust has thanked James for his services to Llanthony Secunda Priory and wishes him well in his future endeavours."

Llanthony Secunda Priory is the remains of the huge Augustinian Priory that was founded outside of Gloucester's city walls in the 12th century.

The scheduled monument has played an important part in the city's history for more than 900 years.

It has recently been restored by the work of the Trust with two 15th century buildings restored and conserved and put back into use.

It formally reopened last year as a heritage attraction and venue for events in the city.

The statement added: A sub-group of trustees has been created to lead the process of recruiting a new Chair.

"In the meantime, the Trust is very grateful to its former Chair, Jeremy Williamson, who has agreed to step in as acting Chair until the recruitment process is concluded."