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Drusillas Park Volunteer Honoured As ‘Hero’ With International Award

A volunteer from Drusillas Park has been honoured for their outstanding contribution in a special new award.

The ‘Zoo and Aquarium Hero’ award has been conferred to a select few individuals who have made a special contribution to zoos and aquariums.

Martin Bayliss has made an incredible difference to Drusillas for four years, and has consistently been one of the Park’s best and most reliable volunteers.

Martin has helped the Park with careers fairs at local schools, promoting its conservation messages, but his greatest solo contribution has been in helping to preserve a vintage bus that had been on the Drusillas site since 1981.

The future of the bus, originally built in 1965, was uncertain and Drusillas education officers spoke to Martin, due to his history working for London Transport.

Martin conducted private research on the history of the bus and tracked down enthusiasts who were able to rehome the bus to ensure that it lived on at the West of England Transport Collection in Devon.

Ollie Smith, Managing Director said:

“Martin is a great credit to Drusillas and the volunteer community.

"Every interaction - whether it be with colleagues or visitors - is warm, friendly, and personable which is why is held in such high regard here at the park.

Martin is a real inspiration to each and everyone of us and we are so proud of his latest achievement! Congratulations Martin from everyone at Drusillas!”

In this round of awardees, Martin received the award along with just 13 other volunteers across the UK and Ireland.

They join existing Heroes, including fundraisers who supported zoos over the pandemic and TV stars Aaron, Tyler and Cam Whitnall – hosts of CBBC’s One Zoo three.

It is hoped the Zoo and Aquarium Heroes will continue to share their passion of the animal world and keep inspiring others to make a difference.

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