Vic Reeves assists Born Free with orphaned cubs
Comedian Jim Moir - better known as Vic Reeves - has helped re-home three rescued leopards as part of his role as a patron of The Born Free Foundation.
Jim, his wife Nancy and daughters Lizzie and Nellie, travelled to South Africa in August to visit the Shamwari Game Reserve with the international charity, founded 30 years ago by actress and conservationist Virginia McKenna OBE and her late husband Bill Travers MBE.
During his visit Jim and his family were asked to assist a team of wildlife professionals with moving three rescued leopards - triplets Sami, Alam and Namira - into their new enclosure at the Born Free Big Cat Rescue Centre on the Reserve.
After being sedated by Dr Johan Joubert the animals were carefully moved in two Land Rover Discoverys.
Jim said the opportunity to see some of the world’s most endangered and beautiful animals at close quarters was a dream come true.
"It was an incredible experience. They’re such big, powerful beasts that you wouldn’t want to go anywhere near them when they are awake!"
The leopard cubs had been found in the Sudanese Bush after being orphaned and Born Free were contacted to assist.
They now live in a three acre natural enclosure - upgraded living quarters that have been funded in part by their dedicated group of Born Free Adoptive Parents including Jim who donated prize money after appearing on "Celebrity Who Wants to be a Millionaire" and "Tipping Point Lucky Stars".
Image © Alan Strutt.
