‘Inspirational superwoman’ recognised for marathon feat

A CEO who completed all six of the major world marathons to mark her 60th birthday has been officially named ‘a local hero’.

Hertfordshire Zoo’s Lynn Whitnall was awarded a Zoo and Aquarium Hero Award by the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) to mark her incredible achievement that raised thousands for charities including President’s Sporting Club, Great Ormond Street, Teens Unite and Herts Air Ambulance.

BIAZA’s award, previously won by Lynn’s three sons Tyler, Aaron and Cam for their work on the hit children’s TV show One Zoo Three, recognises the zoo boss’s commitment to her community.

Dr Jo Judge, CEO of BIAZA, said: “Lynn is a local hero, not just to Hertfordshire, but to the whole zoo community. Her commitment and passion for conservation, as well as her determination to support the causes she loves, make her an inspirational superwoman.”

The award was presented to Lynn during a surprise ceremony following the launch of the UK Centre for Species Survival Trail at Hertfordshire Zoo on National Wildlife Day. The High Sheriff of Hertfordshire, Annie Brewster JP, and BIAZA’s Andy Hall were present to honour Lynn’s outstanding contributions.

Lynn said: “It is an absolute honour to be recognised in this way, especially by those who share my passion for conservation. Hertfordshire has always been home, and I’m proud to have contributed to our community’s efforts to protect wildlife, both locally and globally. I always like to inspire others to go out and make a difference in their communities.”

Over the past 30 years, Lynn’s fundraising efforts have raised more than £350,000 for good causes.

Images credit: Hertfordshire Zoo