Born Free is an international wildlife charity founded by Virginia McKenna and Bill Travers following their starring roles in the classic film “Born Free”.

The charity started life in Dorking before moving to Horsham and works to alleviate suffering, investigate cruelty and encourage everyone to treat wildlife with respect. Born Free is dedicated to protecting threatened species in their natural habitat and works with local communities around the world to help people and wildlife live together without conflict.

Today the charity is led by Will Travers (left), although Virginia McKenna continues as Born Free’s voluntary ambassador. “Working with compassion and respect to educate and conserve, we can help ensure that this fragile planet and all its wonderful wild inhabitants can continue to survive for generations to come”.

Virginia McKenna received the OBE in the New Year's Honours 2004 "for services to art and to animal conservation" and she received her OBE from the Queen on 9th June 2004.

Born Free has 8 major campaigns devoted to animal welfare and conservation: Zoo Check, Elefriends, Big Cat Campaign, Marine Campaign, Bear Campaign. Primate Campaign, Wolf Campaign and Education Campaign.

There is to be a street collection in Dorking on Friday 30 July and if you can spare an hour to help or would like to find out more about the inspiring work being done please contact:

The Born Free Foundation, 3 Grove House, Foundry Lane, Horsham RH13 5PL.

Tel: 01403 240170 wildlife@bornfree.org.uk