Three gorillas cared for by a Kent-based conservation charity have been successfully released into the wild.

The Aspinall Foundation has directed the young family of primates into the forests of Gabon in Africa, where they can finally live wild and free.

The group - made up male silverback Rapha and two females, Dikélé and Mbwambe - are now taking part in their first explorations of the Batéké Plateau National Park.

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Both Rapha and Dikélé were rescued by charity as infants. They were orphaned when their parents were slaughtered by poachers.

Mbwambe was born at Port Lympne and travelled with her family out to The Aspinall Foundation’s reserve in Gabon in 2013, when she was six years old.

She was moved away from her father and brothers in 2016 and taken to Lekedi Park in Gabon.

The charity introduced the young gorillas to each other that year, hoping they would bond and form a family group.

Mbwambe was introduced to Dikele first and later Rapha. The group have never been together at Port Lympne.

In 2017, the group were airlifted from their introduction sanctuary 75 miles south west to the conservation charity’s Gorilla Island, where they have been monitored by the charity’s team of experts.

"Finally, these wonderful animals can enjoy a life in the wild, free at last." - Damian Aspinall

Damian Aspinall said: "It’s been quite a journey for this group of gorillas, from their initial introductions, to moving onto Gorilla Island – which has been their home for the last year or so, to now experiencing their first tastes of real freedom on the mainland.

"The group has bonded well and Mbwambe and Dikélé are particularly close, whilst Rapha has matured into a strong silverback and takes his responsibilities as protector and head of the group very seriously."

Last month, after careful assessment, the group was given access to the mainland which will become their forever home.

Mr Aspinall added: "This is another great success story for foundation. Finally, these wonderful animals can enjoy a life in the wild, free at last."