Financial group Sanlam UK has announced a new sponsorship and partnership arrangement with Bristol Zoological Gardens (Bristol Zoo), which will see the company take naming rights of the zoo's world-renowned Gorilla Island, which will become known as Sanlam Gorilla Island.

As part of this arrangement Sanlam will assist in the promotion of the plight of the critically-endangered western lowland gorilla and help generate support for Bristol Zoo's associated conservation projects across West Africa, most notably in Cameroon.

Sanlam will also seek to support and raise awareness for Bristol Zoo's Access to Nature bursary scheme, which is designed to provide community groups which do not have the financial resources or opportunities to visit the zoo or its Wild Place Project, the chance to do so.

The scheme delivers a valuable education experience through access to nature and an out-of-classroom learning experience.

Giles M. Cross (Head of Marketing & PR, Sanlam UK) said: "When we began our conversations with Bristol Zoo it became evident that we wanted to do something significant that neither of us had done before - something that would go beyond a 'simple sponsorship'. Bristol Zoo performs a vital role in promoting and supporting conservation; in educating people about the importance and value of the world around us, in creating understanding and empathy for animals and encouraging participation in the preservation of this planet.

"We're looking forward to working with the zoo and not only assisting in the growth of its bursary scheme but also encouraging other South West businesses to do the same".

"We're thrilled to have partnered with Sanlam UK", commented Owain Cassidy (Head of Marketing and Development, Bristol Zoo Gardens), "and are excited to not only have them as headline sponsors of Gorilla Island but as a key supporter for our Access to Nature bursary scheme, providing groups who would not normally have the resources an opportunity to visit the zoo and experience inspiring out-of-classroom learning.

"With the arrival of our new baby Western lowland gorilla we feel it's a very poignant time and are proud to share this special time with Sanlam UK".