Dudley Zoo worker retires after 40 years
One of Dudley Zoo and Castle's longest serving members of staff has retired after four decades.
Dr David Beeston first began his career at the Castle Hill attraction in June 1978, joining a small team tasked with establishing a zoo education service.
He later became a permanent Dudley Zoo employee in 1983.
Since then, he has worn many hats including educator, registrar, research officer, health and safety co-ordinator and author, as well as helping mould the careers of many young zookeepers in his role as Midlands regional co-ordinator for the diploma in management of zoo and aquarium animals – the industry standard qualification.
David retired on Tuesday. Due to Covid-19, his colleagues couldn't hold the celebrations as planned but hope to hold a party when they can get him back on site to celebrate his career.
Dudley Zoo and Castle director, Derek Grove, said: "David’s colleagues and friends are well aware that this has not just been a job for him, but part of his life and there is not many that can match his skill set and vast zoological knowledge.
“The zoo community can reflect with great satisfaction on a contribution that leaves an undeniable legacy and he will be a hard act to follow.”
