Chester Zoo has appointed Manchester's Code Computerlove as its digital marketing agency after a four-way competitive pitch.

The agency has been briefed to completely redesign the zoo's website and introduce an online marketing campaign including email promotions, PPC and SEO.

Martin Clancy, head of marketing for Chester Zoo, said: “We’re refreshing our brand and communications strategy for 2010, and investing in our online presence as an important way to not only drive sales but to increase excitement in the zoo as a great day out.

“Our website is often consumers’ first experience of Chester Zoo, researching things to do with kids, so it’s vital that it better reflects our offer as a visitor attraction, in addition to communicating the importance of our zoological work."

Code's managing director, Andrew Davenport, said that although the website will be aimed primarily at an adult audience - parents and schools - it will "appeal to the big kid in everyone".