'Superwoman' Lynn Whitnall Receives Zoo and Aquarium Hero Award

Hertfordshire’s very own marathon ‘superwoman’ Lynn Whitnall has been recognised as a local hero and an inspiration to many, receiving a special award from BIAZA, the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Lynn, the CEO of Hertfordshire Zoo and The Big Cat Sanctuary in Kent, has completed all six of the major world marathons, a remarkable feat she achieved in honour of her 60th birthday in the last 12 months. Over the past 30 years, Lynn's charity work has helped raise over £350,000 for good causes. Her marathon journey has captured the hearts of many, especially her local community, as she ran not only to challenge herself but to raise significant funds for numerous charities including Presidents Sporting Club, Great Ormond Street, Teens Unite, Herts Air Ambulance and many more .

In recognition of her contributions, Lynn was awarded the Zoo and Aquarium Hero Award, making her the first CEO in the zoo community to be honoured in this way. The award holds a special place for Lynn, as she follows in the footsteps of her three sons, Tyler, Aaron, and Cam, who had previously received the award for their work on the hit children’s TV show One Zoo Three.

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.

Over the past 30 years, Lynn's charity work has helped raise over £350,000 for good causes. Balancing the demands of raising three boys and running a busy zoo and sanctuary with over 400 animals, 150 staff, and 500,000 visitors annually, would be enough for most people. Her first marathon in 2004 was in aid of Breast Cancer Awareness, a cause close to her heart as she battled the illness herself. 

Dr. Jo Judge, CEO of BIAZA, praised Lynn’s unwavering spirit, saying: “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.”

Lynn Whitnall, deeply moved upon receiving the award, commented, “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.”

Andy Hall, Communications and Public Affairs Manager at BIAZA, who presented Lynn with the award, said, “It was a privilege to present Lynn with the Zoo and Aquarium Hero Award. She represents the very best of Hertfordshire and the zoo community, and we are all incredibly proud of her.”

Lynn’s marathon accomplishments and tireless work in conservation have made her a beloved local hero, cementing her place in the hearts of Hertfordshire residents and inspiring people across the country.