Herd Group helps three lions make the journey to their new home

In May 2026, Herd Group supported the relocation of three young Northern lions, Will, Bertie and Mak, as they travelled 140 miles from ZSL Whipsnade Zoo in Bedfordshire to their new home at Africa Alive in Kessingland, Suffolk.

Working alongside TES 2000 Ltd and the Zoological Society of East Anglia, Herd provided the vehicle used for the journey, with Jack Howell from TES 2000 behind the wheel. Mervyn Lambert Plant also supported the move by providing a telehandler.

Stripe Master Ltd worked with Herd to produce and fit the bespoke vehicle graphics at short notice, getting the vehicle wrapped and ready for the journey.

The three lions arrived at Africa Alive on 12 May, where they were introduced to their new habitat under the supervision of the park's animal care team.

The move brought several organisations together, each providing the vehicles, equipment and support needed to complete the relocation.

For Herd, it was an opportunity to put one of our vehicles to work on a very different type of journey and help Will, Bertie and Mak reach their new home.

Read more about the journey on Rail Industry Connect.