COPPER the amorous chimpanzee is hoping cupid's arrow will strike love into the heart of the new ape in her life on St Valentine's Day today.

Since she moved to her new home at Flamingo Land Theme Park and Zoo, Kirby Misperton, the 15-year-old has tried every trick in the book to woo the zoo's longest serving resident, Nelson.

Despite being without female company for more than a year since his long-term partner, Julie, died, 45-year-old Nelson has turned down all the brassy monkey's invitations to become her mate.

The pair have bonded as friends, but Nelson had snubbed Copper's amorous advances to take their relationship further.

Melanie Wood, marketing director, said: "With St Valentine's Day upon us we can only hope that cupid's arrow will strike, otherwise we are going to have one frustrated female chimpanzee."

Updated: 10:16 Monday, February 14, 2005