Nine-year-old Arthur, originally from Hertfordshire and now living in Wootton, Bedford, has been honoured with a prestigious Herts Award in recognition of his outstanding fundraising efforts for Hertfordshire Zoo.
Described by his parents as “our hero,” Arthur’s conservation journey began after watching Sir David Attenborough documentaries and learning about environmental destruction. Moved by the footage of trees being cut down and marine habitats under threat, Arthur took it upon himself to make a difference, starting with raising funds for Hertfordshire Zoo, home of his favourite TV show One Zoo Three.
Arthur’s first major fundraiser took place in 2023, when he completed a Tough Mudder Kids event, raising money for the zoo (formerly Paradise Wildlife Park). He followed this with a series of initiatives including sponsored litter picks, a school fete ‘Hook-a-Duck’ stall supported by the zoo, and a second Tough Mudder challenge in 2024 this time in freezing rain, raising an impressive £669.
In total, Arthur has raised over £1,800 across his campaigns and is showing no signs of slowing down. His next challenge? Climbing Mount Snowdon this May half-term with his mum to raise funds for the Marine Conservation Society, inspired by learning about the destruction of seagrass habitats on One Zoo Three.
Arthur has also inspired friends, family, and classmates to get involved proving that one young person can ignite a community effort. His school supported his fundraising efforts, and local children joined in with litter picks. His efforts were officially recognised on 21 March at Tewinbury Farm, where he was nominated for the Future of Hertfordshire Award.
With dreams of one day rescuing animals in the field, particularly in Africa and Botswana, Arthur’s ambitions go far beyond the UK. “Helping animals means saving their lives and dreams,” he shared. “Anyone can make a difference.”
Arthur’s favourite animals include the native sand lizard and the black tree monitor lizard—both of which have inspired his dedication to wildlife protection.
Hertfordshire Zoo congratulates Arthur on his incredible achievements and is proud to have such a dedicated young conservationist supporting its mission to protect animals and their habitats across the globe.
