Rhino attacks car at West Midland Safari Park, UK

Rhino at West Midlands Safari Park

A mum has demanded tighter safety controls at West Midlands Safari Park after a charging rhino smashed into her vehicle - with her screaming toddler inside.

The two tonne beast caused £500-worth of damage to Vicky Liggins' Mitsubishi Warrior during the heart-stopping attack at the tourist attraction in Bewdley, Worcestershire.

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And as the Northfield bank worker fled the scene, with her sister Beth Rees and 19 month-old daughter Evelyn in the car, she says the Asian rhino gave chase.

Thankfully, a ranger came to the rescue, but the beast gave chase as Vicky drove away.

The Mitsubishi suffered a smashed back light, crumpled rear and dents to the driver's side.

The safari park has apologised to Vicky and sent her a £250 goodwill gesture.

But Vicky, aged 26 from Halesowen wants barriers erected to prevent rhinos wandering in front of vehicles.

"We were absolutely petrified. I dread to think what would've happened if we'd been in a smaller, lighter vehicle," Vicky told the Birmingham Mail.

"As we drove past the three rhinos, I thought they were too close. These animals are two ton - they weigh more than a car, they're dangerous animals.

"I didn't notice the rhino behind my car until it hit the vehicle with its horn.

"We were all really frightened. It then shunted us from behind with such force, the back wheel lifted off the floor.

"We were absolutely petrified. I thought the rhino was going to pierce the back panel and smash through the rear windscreen. We couldn't drive away because of the rhinos in front.

"My daughter was in tears and the sad thing is that she loves animals."

"It was one very scary and expensive day," said Vicky. "As a member of the public you don't expect to be hit by a massive animal like that.

"I want the public to understand the dangers of safari parks. Even with so called 'rangers' on site, it isn't safe."

Vicky has criticised the way park top brass handled the attack, which happened three weeks ago. "I received no immediate apology and was referred to the 'terms and conditions'.

In an official statement to the the safari park has said sorry, but declined to go into detail about the incident.

A spokeswoman said: "The highlight of a visit to West Midland Safari Park is to drive amongst free roaming animals and to get the chance to feed some of them.

"In addition, we also offer a guided minibus tour for a small extra charge. We welcome many, many thousands of visitors during the course of a year without mishap and, therefore, we are very sorry that wasn't so on this particular occasion".