MURDER-MYSTERY novelist Lady Ruth Rendell has been appointed vice president of Chester Zoo.
The elephant-loving author has taken on the role having long supported the zoo and the conservation work it carries out, locally and internationally.
Lady Rendell said: “I am simply delighted to become vice president of the North of England Zoological Society. It marks the beginning of a wonderful new chapter in my life.”
Lady Rendell, who has sold more than 20 million books, has named two of the zoo’s elephants – the latest being Jamilah, born in January.
“I’ve been coming to Chester Zoo for the last 12 years and have enjoyed each visit more than the last,” she added.
“But after naming two Asian elephants it has become even more of a joy. It’s a wonderful place with good people doing some vital work for the conservation of a vast number of different species.”
Chester Zoo director general Dr Mark Pilgrim said: “I am absolutely thrilled that Lady Rendell has agreed to become our third vice president.”
Lady Rendell’s involvement with Chester Zoo began in 2002, when she became a patron of its Asian Elephant Appeal. She has since continued to lend her support to a number of its conservation initiatives.
Dr Pilgrim added: “Lady Rendell has helped and supported us for many years now and has, in particular, made great contributions to our conservation work with elephants.”
