Longleat colleagues lace up for the London Marathon in support of wildlife charity Tusk
Driven by passion, purpose, and the spirit of adventure, two Longleat team members are taking on one of the world’s most iconic races — the London Marathon — to help protect wildlife across Africa.
On 26 April 2026, Maisie Squire and Scott Ashman will be taking on the staggering 26.2-mile challenge, representing Longleat in Wiltshire, to raise vital funds for Tusk, a charity dedicated to protecting precious biodiversity across more than 25 countries in Africa.
The move is part of the estate’s celebrations to mark the 60th anniversary of the Safari Park, which was the first to open outside of Africa in 1966.
Simon Askew, Longleat’s Chief Operating Officer, explains, “We invited team members across Longleat and its sister attraction Cheddar Gorge & Caves to apply to take on the challenge, in one of the two spaces we’ve been lucky enough to secure. Both Scott and Maisie’s applications shone through, demonstrating their personal commitment to the cause — and the gruelling training regime!
Both of them are remarkable ambassadors for Longleat, Cheddar and Tusk. And we’re moved by their commitment and positivity. We’re behind them every step of the way.”
Having founded the Longleat Run Club, leading and encouraging colleagues of all fitness levels, and recently completed the 2025 Ironman Wales event, Scott radiates energy and enthusiasm. Scott said, “With the opportunity to run in the London Marathon, I am heading toward completing the London Classics, a trio of endurance events including the London Marathon, RideLondon 100, and the Swim Serpentine. Completing the Classics would not only be a personal milestone but also an exceptional opportunity to spotlight the importance of wildlife conservation throughout the journey.”
Maisie, having been a keen runner for over 10 years, plans to run a kitchen marathon as well, by hosting bake sales and quiz nights to raise as much as she can. Maisie said, “It is an honour to represent both Tusk and Longleat. I’ve recently started a marathon training plan with my dad who is running for Whizz Kids. I would love to be able to run alongside him, supporting an equally worthy charity, as he has inspired me and is one of my biggest supporters.”
Amid a year of celebrations and events, Longleat is keen to focus attention on its vital conservation work and wildlife charities it supports which includes Tusk.
Africa is home to 25% of the world’s remaining biodiversity and Tusk’s mission is to protect it. Tusk enables and empowers expert local conservationists who are best placed to direct the protection of Africa's wildlife and supports in finding sustainable solutions to maintain critical habitats.
Tusk’s impact speaks for itself. For every £1 donated, 91p goes directly towards conservation action. The charity has secured more than 50 million hectares of landscape for wildlife, mitigated over 2,500 incidents of human–wildlife conflict, and recovered more than 34,000 snares — significantly reducing threats to endangered species and creating safer, thriving habitats.
“Maisie and Scott’s determination captures the spirit of Longleat, which at its heart sits a deep reverence of the natural world. If you can support them, your donation will go to supporting the planet's most astonishing wildlife and the vital communities that live alongside them.” – said Simon.