A POPULAR West Midlands attraction has made the "difficult decision' to close.

The Bear Grylls Adventure revealed it will close this December after six years of operating at the NEC near Birmingham.

A spokesperson for the attraction said: "This has been a very difficult decision and one that was made only after careful consideration.

"Our priority now is looking after our team members and animals throughout this transition.

"We are proud of the positive impact The Bear Grylls Adventure has had on thousands of children and families that have visited over the last six years, showing guests first-hand the power of immersive activity in escaping the ordinary and how adventure is for everyone.

"We want to thank our amazing team and guests who have made this time so memorable."

The Bear Grylls Adventure provided a range of thrill-seeking activities for families, which included shark dives, axe throwing, snorkelling, climbing, escape rooms and IFLY experiences.

It is an activity centre based on Bear Grylls - a British adventurer, writer, television presenter and former SAS trooper. 

Over the coming weeks, the team will work to transfer its animals to suitable homes.

Some will be sent to the nearby aquarium National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham and the rest to other UK SEA LIFE sites.

The spokesperson added: "Our team of welfare specialists at SEA LIFE will oversee the transition process to ensure it runs as smoothly as possible."