Dozens of people, including the Georgian Ambassador, gathered at The Mayhew on Saturday to raise money for the Tbilisi Hippo Fund following the recent flooding there.

The flood devastated parts of Tbilisi and its zoo, taking with it the lives of at least twelve people and hundreds of animals. Many more are still missing.

While some of the animals drowned, others escaped during the flooding and were later shot by officials. The hippo has become a symbol for protesters unhappy with the handling of the situation and for fundraising efforts.

Chief Executive, Caroline Yates, greeted members of the London Georgian Society who gathered together with the local community to help the animals.

Caroline Yates, said: “We really feel for the people of Tbilisi during this terrible tragedy and we care about the animals. We provide vet training in Georgia and have been working in Tbilisi for a while to try to improve the welfare and conditions of the animals so for something like this to happen is truly devastating.”

Ambassador Gachechiladze added: “It’s very good of The Mayhew Animal Home to help us host this fundraiser to raise money for the Tbilisi Hippo fund. The community has all come together tonight to show solidarity and great spirit.  We are doing everything we can to show our support for the people and animals who perished.”

Half the money raised will go to the fund and half to The Mayhew.