As such, international wildlife charity Born Free has launched a new kids club to encourage and inspire the next generation to take an active and educated approach to helping wildlife.

The Hear the Roar Club is open to children of all ages who want to learn about wildlife, the natural world, and all the global conservation work Born Free is doing to save the animals who simply cannot speak for themselves.

Members will receive a welcome pack full of goodies including a Hear the Roar membership embroidered patch, certificate, and a Superstars chart which encourages youngsters to take action by: rescuing a wild animal or insect in need; educating others by talking to their class or family about wildlife issues; changing policy by sending a persuasive letter to wildlife decision makers; spreading the word by making a poster or video about a wildlife issue that is important to them; and supporting field work by hosting their own fundraising event. Club members will also receive monthly e-newsletters as well as copies of Born Free’s bi-annual Hear the Roar magazine which is packed with fun activities, educational facts, inspirational conservation ideas, games and more.

Bella Lack, Born Free’s Youth Ambassador, said:

“As a toddler I was fascinated with worms, snails and ants. I always had bug hotels dotted around my garden. Then, when I became a teenager, I discovered Born Free. Suddenly, not only could I rescue a worm, but I could also help rescue or protect a tiger in India, a lion in Kenya or an orangutan in Borneo!

“Many species are now facing extinction because of humans and how we treat the planet, and it will be ours and future generations that will suffer when plastic, pollution and power have gained supremacy over all else. We cannot give up hope though - we can help and we can make a difference! You can make your garden a wildlife haven and watch as hedgehogs, birds, frogs and more begin to visit…It’s not just up to the adults to make changes, it’s up to us as children now more than ever. Joining Born Free’s Hear the Roar Club is a great way to start your journey into helping animals all over the world. Always remember though, whatever you choose to do, never underestimate your impact. If you help protect one animal, then you have helped save a family and a species.”

Membership to Born Free’s Hear the Roar Club costs £16 per year and all proceeds go towards their wider education work. Children can also sign up to Born Free’s free of charge monthly e-newsletters Hear the Roar Extra Load. For more information or to join, visit www.bornfree.org.uk/kids-club.

Notes to Editor:

High res images available on request.