Let me buy Whipsnade white lion, says councillor

Dr Gbola Adeleke says the chalk landmark is in ‘a state’ and says he can do a better job.

Dr Adeleke, who’s a former mayor of Dacorum, has had his suggestion turned down. The Chief Operating Officer of the zoo, Owen Craft, says:

“At Whipsnade Zoo we are very proud of the iconic White Lion which has been overlooking the downs across Bedfordshire since 1933.

“It is extremely important to us and ZSL, the conservation charity behind Whipsnade Zoo, to maintain ownership of the chalk grassland landscape.

“The White Lion is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) as it is a rare and important habitat for native species including orchids and butterflies. Whipsnade Zoo takes great care of the area, with a specific management plan in place which is approved by Natural England.” Photo: Getty Images.