Conservation gets the royal nod

I’m not a royalist, but what a historic day for Britain. The newly weds looked a picture of happiness, this their first snap together as they emerged as the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge from Westminster Abbey. Congratulations to them both!

Although I live a stones throw from Whitehall, I decided to avoid the crowds and watch the pomp and ceremony from the safety of my flat. I can’t be dealing with all that pushing and jostling. It’s bad enough when you’re told to do it for work, let alone on a day off.

But what a spectacle it’s been. Comedy moment for me was when David Beckham turned up looking very dapper wearing his OBE medal pinned to his Ralph Lauren morning suit. Medals are traditionally worn on a man’s left breast, above the heart, but Becks chose to wear his on the right. Commentators squawking, “what a trend setter.” Done deliberately or fashion faux par? Me thinks it’s the former, he’s an East London footballer not a bloody aristocrat.

All morning I’ve been glued to the telly channel hopping between the Beeb and ITV. It’s big events like this where networks roll-our their heavyweight presenters and ‘roving’ reporters. All trying harder than the next to capture the atmosphere and colour of the day.  Only viewing figures will reveal who trumped who and then there’ll be a lot of navel-gazing for a few days.

I have to say there’s been a real sense of British pride coming through, but that’s thanks to the public, not the performing telly tarts. I wonder if any of the ardent cynics who’ve complained about the cost; security, a day off work and the unnecessary fuss have changed their opinion today?

So what do the royal couple have to do with primates? I’ll admit it’s a tenuous link as it’s connected to conservation as a whole. The bride and groom have asked anyone wanting to give them a wedding gift, to consider instead making a donation to a chosen list of charities.

Featured in The Charitable Gift Fund is the Zoological Society of London (ZSL). An independent, science-based conservation charity committed to preserving animals and their habitats.

Clarence House said: “These causes are close to their hearts and reflect the experiences, passions and values of their lives so far. Having been touched by the goodwill shown to them since their engagement, they have asked that anyone wishing to send them a wedding gift consider doing so in the form of a donation to the fund.”

In addition anyone who’d like a day out at either London Zoo or Whipsnade Animal Park which are both part of ZSL can get in free this bank holiday weekend, if they share their first name with William and Kate.

You do have to bring your passport though, so free loaders think again or you’ll be carted off to the Tower.