Champion racing driver to support Horsham charity

Recognised as the most famous motor endurance race in the world, two-time class winner Darren will proudly sport the Born Free logo when he races the super powerful Aston Martin Vantage GTE. Taking a break from his intense preparation, Darren zoomed over to the Born Free head office in Horsham to meet with the team and its President, Will Travers OBE. Will explained: “Darren Turner relies on four things to be a winner: speed, endurance, reliability and safety. Born Free relies on the same qualities. “Speed – individual wild animals in trouble need our help fast. “Endurance – we are in our 30th year and are here for the long-haul. Reliability – the public can count on us to do our very best, whatever the challenges. “Safety – our mission is to provide a safe and secure future for wildlife. That’s why Born Free is so thrilled to be partnering with Darren, and why, working together, we will win for the animals.” Darren was welcomed by Will, Adam Roberts, CEO Born Free USA; Claudio Sillero, Born Free’s Head of Conservation, and Wildlife Consultant Ian Redmond OBE. The charity’s mascot – Lionel – also made an appearance, and even got the chance to sit behind the wheel of the £150,000 vehicle. The Born Free Foundation is a charity close to Darren’s heart, as he explains: “Over the last few years I have taken part in various events for different charities but for a while I have wanted to pick a single charity and do as much as I can to help. “Choosing Born Free was very easy for me as they are campaigning for some of the most incredible creatures on the planet. “Each and every one of their campaigns means a lot to me and, added to the fact they are a super team of people, I’m really excited to be involved.” Actress and Founder of the Born Free Foundation, Virginia McKenna OBE is delighted that Darren has chosen to support the charity’s vital conservation work, adding: “How very fortunate we are that Darren feels so strongly about the ever-increasing plight of wild animals and their ever-diminishing wild homes, and that he has chosen to support Born Free’s work in this field. “His involvement will introduce these issues to a new audience, and I feel sure his commitment and passion will inspire others. It is wonderful to have his name linked to ours. The Born Free logo will appear on Darren’s HANS device, a vital piece of safety equipment for all racing drivers. “He will also raise awareness for the work of the charity through taking part in a series of fundraising events throughout the year, including the British 10K on July 13, where he will run alongside TV presenter Michaela Strachan as part of the ‘Born to Run’ team sponsored by Tiger Balm. Those wishing to sponsor Darren can do so here: https://www.justgiving.com/DTBornFree Darren explained: “With all of today’s safety features us racing drivers are very much a protected species! “I hope that I can help others see the great work being done by Born Free to protect some of the most amazing species in the animal kingdom.” Picture contributed.