Bristol Zoo has become the first zoo in the UK to offer Segway tours.

The tours take place in the evenings after the zoo has closed to regular visitors, so there is no danger of mowing down hoards of primary school children at the Segway’s capped top speed of 10mph.

That top speed doesn’t sound like much, but actually on the machine it feels like a fair rate of knots, as I discovered on a taster session.

When first stepping onto a Segway, the feeling is not unlike stepping onto a wobble board, but after about a minute of instruction I felt like a pro.

Only the faintest lean forward propels the Segway, which has sensors in the foot pads that are so sensitive only slight downward pressure with the toes can move this most futuristic yet retro of vehicles.

I was slightly wary about the morning’s tour as I prefer two-wheeled transport of the pedal-powered variety.

But my reservations were soon overturned due to just how fun it is to ride the self-balancing Segway, which was invented at Plymouth University.

Of course there’s also the novelty factor and for many at the zoo yesterday morning, those of us on Segways were the main attraction.

I don’t think a wide smile ever left my face as my confidence grew and I weaved around trees and exhibits, all the while looking out for both the zoo’s large animatronic dinosaurs to see as well as small guests to avoid.

Each Segway lasts 45 minutes and will be conducted in groups of no more than seven. Prices for tours are £30 per person, with bookings now being taken for July 11 and 18. To book, telephone 0117 9747 300.

For more information, visit www.bristolzoo.org.uk/segway-safari-dino-tours.