A charity gala in the South West has raised more than £100,000 in support of wildlife conservation across Africa.
The event was hosted by Ceawlin and Emma Thynn, the 8th Marquess and Marchioness of Bath, at Longleat House in Wiltshire on Saturday, September 12, in support of the Tusk charity.
It also celebrated more than 20 years of partnership between Longleat and Tusk, as well as the 60th anniversary of Longleat’s safari park.
Lady Bath, a Tusk ambassador, said: "Conservation is not simply part of what Longleat does, it is part of who we are.
"Longleat is home to more than 120 rare, vulnerable and critically endangered species, each one reminding us of the responsibility we all share to protect the natural world.
"This evening is not just a celebration, but it is also a statement of our shared commitment for the future.
"At a time when wildlife faces unprecedented challenges, the work of organisations like Tusk has never been more important.
"Together, we can help ensure that future generations inherit a world where these magnificent animals not only survive but thrive."
The gala brought together 150 guests for an evening of dinner, drinks, and a live auction to raise funds for Tusk.
The auction was conducted by Sholto Gilbertson of RM Sotheby’s.
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Guests also enjoyed Longleat’s annual Icons of the Sky air show, featuring hot air balloons and fireworks, including a special Tusk-branded balloon.
More than £100,000 was raised through donations, sponsorship, and auction bids, with funds going directly towards Tusk’s conservation projects across Africa.
Tusk is a Wiltshire-based charity focused on protecting wildlife, supporting communities, and conserving vital landscapes across the African continent.
It has operated from the south-west for more than 30 years and has developed a close relationship with Longleat and the surrounding region.
The gala also marked more than two decades of collaboration between Longleat and Tusk, during which Longleat has contributed more than £500,000 to the charity’s work.
Longleat keepers have visited Tusk-supported projects in Africa, with their experiences featured in the BBC series Animal Park.
Charlie Mayhew, president and CEO of Tusk, said: "With Longleat celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, it seems fitting that we should also celebrate and reaffirm our longstanding close connection with the park.
"This evening has provided a wonderful opportunity to do that, while also raising vital funds that will directly support our project partners across Africa.
"We’re immensely grateful to Lord and Lady Bath for their continued support, as well as to the staff and keepers who, over the years, have spoken so passionately to visitors about Tusk and the importance of wildlife conservation."
The gala was supported by sponsors including Defender, DHL Express, Marriott International, Dorsia Travel, and Painted Wolf Wines.
In 2025, Lady Bath took part in the Lewa Safari Marathon in Kenya to raise awareness and support for conservation.
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