This year's collection included guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, tortoises, African land snails, stick insects, chickens, a cockerel and even a wood louse.

The children brought them into the school in cages and a group of judges - led this year by vet Sarah Hall whose daughter is a pupil - award prizes in categories like best behaved pet, the liveliest and calmest pets, the best child handler and most knowledgeable owner.

'Animals are an important part of many people's lives and it's important that they are looked after properly,' said prep school headmistress Alison Miller. 'We hold a pet day every year because, as well as being fun, it's a great opportunity for the girls to show friends their own animals and to exchange tips on how to look after them.

'Dogs and cats aren't allowed and we haven't yet had a lamb!'