A chimpanzee relaxing in his enclosure at Wales Ape & Monkey Sanctuary
  • A long-term commitment
  • Direct impact
  • Get in touch first

Become a patron

Patrons make a substantial, ongoing commitment to the sanctuary's work. Every patron has come to us through conversation, not a form.

Current patrons

The people who stand with us

Each of our patrons has a working relationship with the sanctuary. They visit, they listen, they champion the animals.

  • FLS, FRSB, MCIEEM, CEnv

    Dr Rhys Jones

    International scientific researcher and conservationist. Featured Wales Ape & Monkey Sanctuary on BBC One's Rhys Jones's Wildlife Patrol and Rhys to the Rescue, which covered the rescue of Bili (chimpanzee) and Titch (mandrill).

  • Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons, formerly Motörhead

    Phil Campbell

    A long-standing supporter of the sanctuary. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Phil helped raise £7,445 by running a UK tour gig-tickets raffle in aid of the residents.

  • Lead guitarist, Bullet For My Valentine

    Michael 'Padge' Paget

    Padge first visited the sanctuary in September 2019. He has donated equipment to the rangers we support in Angola and helped raise £7,445 with Phil Campbell during the pandemic raffle.

  • Chat-show host and comedian

    Graham Norton

    Graham has been a patron of Wales Ape & Monkey Sanctuary since 2002.

    Patron since 2002

  • Actor, comedian, TV host

    James Corden OBE

    Best known for The Late Late Show on CBS and Gavin & Stacey. James visited the sanctuary and became a patron.

  • Actress

    Sheridan Smith OBE

    Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps, Gavin & Stacey, and Benidorm. Sheridan visited the sanctuary and became a patron.

  • Wildlife photographer and conservation advocate

    Gwilym Pugh

    Originally from Cardiff. Internationally known model turned wildlife photographer with a 300,000-strong social-media following. Currently studying for a BSc in Environmental Science.

In their words
The sanctuary holds a special place in my heart. Every animal is rescued and given the best life possible.
Padge Paget, on becoming a patron
How to enquire

Start with a conversation

There is no application form. Patron arrangements are bespoke. Ring or email and we'll find a time to talk.