Our world is less bright without Geoffrey, a wonderful man who stood squarely on the side of animals, and with all of us here at Cruelty Free International, as we tackled injustice and celebrated shared victories.

I have worked closely with Geoffrey for over twenty years, seeing our shared commitment to animal protection and desire to change the world blossom into the best of friendships. Committed to partnership, with a strong belief in joint action, Geoffrey was a much respected and loved Chair of the European Coalition to End Animal Experiments, leading a close team of dedicated campaigners. We worked together over decades to speak up for animals in laboratories, taking their voices into the heart of the European Union. Geoffrey was always urging us forward, pushing for more, ensuring that we were always ready to shine a light on animal suffering wherever it occurred, whoever was responsible.

We fought many battles together and celebrated many victories - from the cosmetics animal testing bans in the European Union, to driving down the numbers of animals used in chemicals tests and persuading many airlines to end the transport of primates for research. Geoffrey played a huge part in all of these efforts and we would have been so much poorer without him. A fearless campaigner but also a friend. Many evenings spent sharing stories, laughing and planning the future as we tried out the local vegan café wherever we were. Time with Geoffrey and his equally wonderful Adrie always to be relished.

A strong commitment to partnership shone through in Geoffrey. Extending hands across the globe he naturally connected with groups worldwide and was always there to support and encourage anyone who wanted to make a difference for animals. Formally in different organisations, we worked seamlessly as one. It is a fitting testament to Geoffrey that there is an outpouring of respect for him from right across the globe. There are animals everywhere who owe their lives to Geoffrey.

With the formation and launch of Cruelty Free Europe we were about to embark on a new journey together – with the same passion, determination and vision that Geoffrey had always shown. There will be an empty seat at our table that can never be filled.

 

Michelle Thew

Chief Executive