My mother would have been overjoyed!

‘I have been an admirer of and donor to SPANA for over 20 years and was absolutely delighted to be given the opportunity in January this year to become a Trustee. It’s a pleasure to know that I can use the skills and experience built up during my business career to help such a committed and worthwhile organisation in some small way.

‘I was originally a biologist who later turned to business and became the chief executive of a number of manufacturing businesses. But I always retained my passion for the natural world and animals in particular. I was fortunate enough to travel extensively with my late mother and we were both horrified by the plight of so many working donkeys and horses. This made us determined to support those charities working to improve their lives.

‘When my mother left a legacy to me, she asked that I leave part of it to SPANA in my own Will. So I have included a gift to SPANA which is a contribution from two people who care deeply about working animals. Now as a trustee, I am acutely aware of just how important legacies are to SPANA – funding nearly half of everything we do.

‘On my first visit to see SPANA’s work in Morocco I have been so impressed with the skill and compassion of all the staff. SPANA makes such a positive difference to the lives of these animals and their owners and I am delighted to know that our legacy will help continue this work in the future.

‘It’s an honour to follow in the footsteps of the SPANA founders Kate Hosali and her daughter Nina. I only wish my mother could have known that I would be doing this she would have been overjoyed!’

If, like Mary-Lorraine, you have already included a gift to SPANA in your Will but haven’t told us, why not let us know so that we have the chance to say ‘thank you!’ Or perhaps you are about to have your Will written or updated and are considering including a gift to SPANA? If you have any questions or would like information about how to do this, please feel free to contact Penny in our legacy team or email her at Penny@spana.org.