This started off as more as a joke, and the more we joked about it the more it seemed like a really good idea. This is what the random poll was about.

We, the moderators and I, thought we should do something for Simon's birthday. After doing the interview with him earlier in the year I got the urge to send him something elephant related but managed to refrain. Then I wondered if anyone had ever adopted him an elephant before - so started to look into the idea.

ZURURA - Baby elephant we're going to adopt, this is the one you voted for

We looked at various adoption services and decided on this one as the animals are still fairly wild, and have been orphaned for various reasons, and think Simon would prefer that than a zoo elephant. I also said that I would rather donate money to charity than give a gift to Simon, this gift does both. We did ask if he prefer 'African to Indian' ones, and he had no preference (Thanks Kirsty!)

I am planning on giving this to Simon (or to the theatre he's at) in late January when he's on tour, failing that will find someway of sending it to him.

I would like to give a card with birthday messages as well so if you want to post them here, or pm them to me I'll put them together and give it at the same time.

The message going with the adoption pack will be:

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SIMON
Love and Best Wishes from all at the Simon MacCorkindale Fan Page
We know you didn't want anymore elephant gifts, as you've had so many, but thought you could make an exception with this one

If this is well received it will be come a yearly thing, and hopefully we can all see this little elephant grow up

If anyone want to donate to this PM me, but it's not required as this is going to go ahead no matter

_________________

That is a wonderful idea!!
I am sure he is going to love this present. It is very unique I should say.
Love it

_________________
Heidi Breugelmans

Wow!!! Yeah it's a great idea and such a lovely gift

Just looking at a link for something Elyes(Guppy) is coming up in and there's a listing for the Elephant Diaries and this is the Trust that we're going to be using - which I didn't know

(learn something new . . . )

_________________

Hey, I think that sponsoring a real elephant is a great idea! It is certainly better than getting our man baubles that he doesn't need and possibly doesn't want. But this gift idea, sponsoring a real life, not only benefits Simon, but it benefits others as well. Terrific idea! I'm glad you thought of it!

_________________

Thank for the comments - can't accept anymore now

_________________

The Elephant has been delivered - he said he won't open it till his birthday - hopefully we'll find out if (hoe much) he liked it

_________________

Simon's response

Been told to tell everyone thank you for the birthday messages and he loves the elephant, he later referered to is as 'our' elephant so all of our and his so we all get to see it grow up

_________________

This has been continued for this year however there is someone who will be taking over the adoption for Simon.

Susan George has confirmed she would like to take over the adoption of ZURURA, and again this will continue for as long as possible

_________________

That is so nice of Susan. I will surely give a donation.

_________________
Heidi Breugelmans