BBC 2 are currently running a programme called Baby Chimp Rescue on Thursday evenings at 8pm.

Professor Ben Garrod visits Jimmy and Jenny Desmond at their home, the Liberia Chimpanzee rescue and protection centre. The Desmond’s are trying to build a sanctuary in an isolated 100-acre patch of forest. This will provide the orphaned chimps, rescued from the illegal pet trade, with a protected and secure home.

We would really love us all to raise as much money as possible to help the Desmonds’ set up the sanctuary by holding a ‘dress up as an animal day’ on 31^st January with a suggested donation of £1.00. All the money raised will go directly to the Libera Chimpanzee rescue and protection centre.

We have received some lovely messages of support for this, shown below:

“It’s amazing that you want your school to do a fundraiser- Jimmy, Jenny and the kids will all be so pleased.” (Professor Ben Garrod)

“Fantastic- they’ve got all the encouragement in the world!!! Sending love!” (Jenny Desmond, Liberia Chimpanzee Rescue).

“I wish you the best of luck, let me know how much you manage to raise.” (Jemima Parry-Jones MBE, International Centre for Birds of Prey).

Thank you very much, we really hope everyone will take part!

Doogal and Fergus Barnett.