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Jersey Zoo has marked the centenary of its founder by unveiling a commemorative plaque at a manor house where the celebrated conservationist lived for decades.
Lee Durrell, widow of renowned author and naturalist Gerald Durrell, unveiled the plaque during a ceremony earlier this week attended by close friends and special guests.
The event marked what would have been Gerald Durrell's 100th birthday.
Pictured: Lee Durrell unveiled a plaque at the Manor House where the conservationist famously lived within the grounds of Jersey Zoo.
Positioned on the south side of the Manor House, the plaque pays tribute to the conservationist and author’s life and work from his birth in 1925 to his passing in 1995.
The inscription highlights his journey from his early years in India and Corfu to his pioneering efforts in conservation. It reads:
"Gerald Durrell 1925–1995. Celebrated writer, naturalist, and conservation visionary, Gerald Durrell lived here at Les Augrès Manor from 1959 until 1995. Born in India, he spent his formative years in Corfu, which inspired his lifelong mission to save species from extinction. He founded Jersey Zoo in 1959 and a charitable trust in 1963. Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust is respected throughout the world as a pioneer in wildlife and habitat conservation. Behind you lie Gerald’s ashes under the stone of Jersey granite."
This event marks the start of a year-long programme of celebrations planned by the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust.
The centenary activities include a trek to visit the Trust’s pygmy hog conservation project in India, a gala ball, and various family-friendly events at Jersey Zoo.
Pictured: Lee Durrell will be signing copies of Gerald's posthumous book Myself and Other Animals this Sunday.
As part of the celebrations, Lee Durrell will sign copies of Gerald Durrell's posthumous book, 'Myself and Other Animals', on Sunday 12 January 12 from 11:00 to 13:00 at Jersey Zoo's gift shop.
More information about the book signing event can be found HERE.
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