Chester Zoo thanks to Irene Stockton's family

Huge numbers were at Irene Stockton's funeral at St James' church three weeks ago when the collection was for Chester Zoo, a favourite destination for Irene on family days out.

Irene's husband Derek, who wishes to thank everyone for the over 160 cards and letters of sympathy received and everyone's generosity, has now received two letters from Chester Zoo.

One is from the zoo's director general, Dr Mark Pilgrim, which says:

Dear Mr Stockton
I am writing to thank you for the extremely generous donation of £1,300 which we received in memory of your late wife, Mrs Irene Elizabeth Stockton. It is touching for you to think of Chester Zoo at such a sad time: please accept our sincerest condolences.

Once again thank you for your donation: we appreciate your generosity.
Yours sincerely
Dr Mark Pilgrim
Director General

Derek has also received a letter from Hannah Taylor at the zoo describing how they will engrave a leaf in memory of Irene and place it on the olive Giving Tree which can be found in the Roman Garden. It will read 'Memories of Rene, At Peace.'

Hannah is also arranging to send Derek a photo of the newly-born okapi which has not yet been spotted by the zoo's photographers. Our top photo shows one of the zoo's two adult okapi, which are in the giraffe family and come from central Africa.

Derek and his family, sons Jeff, Steve and Rich, are all extremely grateful for all the support, generosity and tributes to Irene they have received from their many friends.

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