Twycross Zoo remembers its founders with blue plaques

The legacy of Twycross Zoo founders, Molly Badham MBE and Nathalie Evans, lives on 55 years after it all began, as we recognised their contribution by welcoming special guests to the unveiling of their blue plaques.

Molly and Nathalie founded the zoo together on Sunday 26th May 1963, with the vision that with the support of visitors, they could make a difference to the conservation of endangered species.

Today, Twycross Zoo is a registered charity which exists to support conservation, education and research. Caring for around 500 animals from over 125 species, some of the most endangered species on the planet. We are home to one of the largest primate collections in Europe and is the only place in the UK, and one of four worldwide, where visitors can see all four types of great ape (gorilla, orang utan, chimpanzee and bonobo) as well as a wide collection of gibbons.

Dr Sharon Redrobe OBE said: “As Twycross Zoo continues to grow we haven’t lost touch with our roots and are keen to ensure there is a constant reminder and celebration of our founders.

Molly and Nathalie’s blue plaques are a testament to their legacy which will continue with the evolution of Twycross Zoo into a modern conservation organisation fulfilling the great ape centre concept and our 20-year Masterplan.”

Photo Caption (l-r): Rt Hon Geoff Hoon, Chair of Board of Trustees at Twycross Zoo, Dr David Chivers, Patron of Twycross Zoo, Councillor Jan Kirby, Mayor of the Borough of Hinckley & Bosworth, Jane Storkey, niece of Nathalie Evans, Dr Sharon Redrobe OBE, CEO of Twycross Zoo, David Tredinnick, MP of Bosworth.