David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation

David Shepherd was delighted to receive the 'Best Conservation' Award on behalf of the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation at this year's Burgess/ Wetnose Animal awards in London today (Friday 9 March). Greeted by a standing ovation for his contribution to the conservation of endangered wildlife David received the award from musician Rick Wakeman and actress Vicki Michelle.

"David and his work for conservation is an inspiration to so many," said Rick Wakeman .

"Having someone of David's calibre at the awards is so important," said compere and actor Graham Cole. "It sends a signal to the many, many hard working animal rescue centres around the country that they are worthy of sharing a stage with someone like David Shepherd."

Commenting on the award David said: "I'm thrilled with the award and dedicate it to all the hard working men and women both in the UK and overseas who give so much time, energy and passion to save endangered animals in the wild. Being in a room of such amazing people is a real boost, the next step is to harness that energy and really make a difference to the lives of animals around the world."

The other winners were : Best Rabbit Rescue - Lumpy Rabbit Rescue; Best Cat Rescue - Caring 4 Cats; Best Welfare Achievement - New Life Parrot Rescue; Best Dog Rescue - Hope Dog Rescue; Best 'breed' Rescue 'Greyhound' (Celia Cross Rescue); Best Horse Rescue - Equine Market Watch Rescue; Special Lester Middlehurst Award - Animal LifeLine ; Best Rescue Story - Basil the Rabbit; Best Rescue Pet - Robbie the Staffie ; Best Conservation - David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation; Best Welfare Success - Soi Dog Foundation Thailand; Special Hero Award - Boris the police horse.

For more on the event click here