NEARLY 300 guests raised vital funds and paid tribute to Monkey World founder Jim Cronin at a special event in Poole.

The black tie gala dinner, dance and charity auction was held at the Lighthouse.

The world famous primate sanctuary at Wool celebrates its 25 years this summer.

It was back in 1987 that animal welfare campaigner Jim established Monkey World.

Although he died five years ago, his work has continued through his wife, Dr Alison Cronin and the team at the park.

Monkey World now has 240 monkeys and apes of 17 different species – most rescued but some born there as part of a highly successful breeding programme.

Shelley Fletcher, event organiser told guests: “We can hardly believe that it is five years since Jim passed away.

“But his legacy lives on, in the increasing number of primates at Monkey World, the constant travelling around the world to rescue animals and the breeding programme that is second to none.”

Before he died of cancer in March 2007, Jim Cronin made his wife promise that she would carry on what he started.

Shelley added: “We have had 145 new arrivals in the past five years and that shows just how that promise is being fulfilled.”

A number of events are being planned this year to mark Monkey World’s quarter of a century.

It is now the largest rescue centre of its kind in the world.

The Jim Cronin Memorial Fund has been founded to support primate welfare and conservation around the world.

l The big event to celebrate the 25th anniversary is a ‘Party in the Park’ in a traditional big top tent on July 14.

For more information call 01305 215500 or email fundraising@jimcroninmemorialfund.org