AN animal lover with a passion for birds of prey is hoping to head out to a South African vulture conservation project for three years as they look to build an on-site hospital.

John Turner is planning to dedicate his life to helping vultures and other birds at VulPro in Hartbeespoort.

The retired London Underground worker had been a regular visitor to Colchester Zoo for many years and taken part in hands on experience with their birds.

A zookeeper who had visited the facility convinced him to spread his wings and try volunteering .

Now, with the blessing of wife, Jackie, he is planning to leave their West Bergholt home and go to VulPro for an extended period to work with his feathered friends - especially PJ - a bird which has taken quite a shine to the 58-year-old.

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He said: “Two years ago I went for a month and absolutely fell in love.

“I would go and sit with the birds at night and PJ would come and sit with me – he is an amazing bird.

“Now every time I go back he comes running back to me and remembers me.

“He pecks at me to see if I have food.

“He was hand reared and released into the wild but was injured - both his wings were broken and part of one had to be removed.

“We have now got this relationship.

“You realise all the birds have their own character and charm.”

Despite their gruesome reputation, vultures are crucial to the African ecosystem as they feast on carcasses which stops the spread of disease because of their unique stomach acid.

However, they are endangered because some people believe parts of their body bring good luck and because they get caught in electricity wires and pylons.

In order to help the birds even more, VulPro led by Kerri Wolter, want to build an on-site hospital but need to raise cash.

John said: “At the moment, the nearest hospital for them is at least half an hour away.

“The strain on them can be unbearable – I have had to travel back with an injured vulture on my lap. It is all about getting these birds back into the wild.”

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John is hosting a summer garden party fundraising event on August 24 in Coggeshall with live music to help VulPro reach their £25,000 target. For more information about the event and for tickets priced at £10 for adults and £5 for children call 07920094726 or email vulpro1980@gmail.com.