David always had a care, passion and fascination for nature and thoroughly enjoyed searching for wildlife wherever he travelled, including Canada, Australia and places closer to home, including Studland Bay, an area supported by Marwell Zoo, where they have successfully released the endangered sand lizards.

He always took the opportunity to visit zoos (probably going to at least one in every country or place in the UK he visited, if there was one) that aided conservation, such as Marwell, which had a special place in his heart. One of his first dates with Shirley, who became his wife, was to Marwell and it became one of their favourite places to visit with their family later on.

Dave's love of wildlife began as a child and was evident when he avidly watched David Attenborough or SpringWatch on the television enjoying observing wildlife in their natural habitats. His knowledge and intrigue was passed on to his two children as he travelled to many national parks and zoos with his eldest, Sarah, when they were in Australia together and the younger, Rob, who is currently studying to become a veterinary surgeon.

Marwell is home to more than 140 exotic and endangered species and is owned by Marwell Wildlife, a global conservation charity, which relies solely on income from the zoo and the fundraising efforts of our loyal supporters. This year we are celebrating 50 years of conservation and sustainability efforts and educating the next generation to take care of the natural world we all share. Our Impact Report (http://ow.ly/MhjA50EVROn) details our work around the world to restore nature, promote sustainable living, and work with communities and governments to help bring about changes needed to help people, wildlife and the wider environment. Thanks to your support and the flexibility and fortitude exhibited by our teams and partners throughout the coronavirus pandemic, we have achieved much against the odds.