“Ever since I started working at Twycross Zoo, I was inspired by the great legacy of the zoo’s co-founders."

Honour recognises services to skills, science and economy

Renowned wildlife vet and CEO of Twycross Zoo, Sharon Redrobe, has been appointed OBE in the Queen’s New Year Honours List.

Dr Redrobe said she was “delighted and humbled by this unexpected honour”.

A leading figure in primate conservation, she is chair of trustees for Ape Action Africa, a board member of the Pan African Sanctuary Alliance and a member of the UK government’s advisory body, the Zoos Expert Committee.

Over the past 20 years she has become a respected authority on zoological matters, and has transformed Twycross Zoo from a loss-making charity to the growing visitor attraction it is today.

The zoo is now celebrating over 50 years in business and has one of Europe’s largest primate collections. It is the only place in the UK that houses all four great apes - gorillas, orang-utans, chimpanzees and bonobos.

Dr Redrobe is currently at the helm of the zoo’s ambitious £55 million masterplan, which will turn the 88-acre site into one of the UK’s leading visitor attractions over the next two decades.

She was appointed OBE for her services to skills, science and the economy in Leicestershire.

“Ever since I started working at Twycross Zoo, I was inspired by the great legacy of the zoo’s co-founders Ms Nathalie Evans and Ms Molly Badham, who herself was appointed OBE,” Dr Redrobe commented.

“The job of the CEO of Twycross Zoo is certainly challenging, but my belief in the role modern zoos must play in conservation keeps me focused on moving forward to help save our precious wildlife. I hope this honour will help increase awareness of the good work we do at Twycross Zoo to protect endangered species and habitats.”

Image © Lucy Ray