Born Free Foundation - Keep Wildlife in the Wild

On Thursday 13^th March 2008, Born Free friends and supporters gathered at the prestigious surroundings of the Royal Geographical Society in the heart of Kensington for a very special event.  Hosted by popular TV presenter and old Born Free friend Anneka Rice, the remarkable evening was a unique opportunity to find out about the charity’s work to rescue and protect big cats.  The spellbound audience was moved to tears, laughter and spontaneous applause as Anneka was in conversation with a select panel of speakers.  

Chief Executive Will Travers explained why urgent action was needed to save wild tigers and lions, then Founder Virginia McKenna gave a fascinating insight to life ‘on location’ during the filming of the classic film ‘Born Free’.  Everyone loved the true story of Christian the irresistible lion cub, told by John Rendall – Trustee of the George Adamson Trust, while auctioneer James Lewis gave a personal insight to behind the scenes at a Born Free rescue.

But it wasn’t over yet.  In an impromptu ‘Cash in the Attic’-style auction, James encouraged the audience to bid for a signed big cat print by Sylvia Duran and first edition of the original book ‘Born Free’.  The winning bid of £4,200 by special guest Prince Paul of Romania secured the limited-edition print, signed by the artist, Bill Travers, Virginia McKenna, George Adamson and his assistant Tony Fitzjohn.  What a fabulous end to an exceptional evening!