CDI’s intergenerational trip to Cotswold Wildlife Park gave us everything we hoped for – sunshine, laughter, connection… and even the legendary Red Pandas. Anyone who’s visited Burford knows spotting them is rarer than winning the lottery. Rumour has it, the 90’s movie blockbuster, ‘Hunt for Red October’ was nearly called ‘Hunt for Red Panda’ until Sean Connery stepped in.
But CDI doesn’t shy away from a challenge. Led heroically by Queen Jean, our team not only found one Red Panda… but two. And then a third in the gift shop (spotted by you‑know‑who). A historic hat‑trick.
The seniors loved their scenic train ride, waving like royalty as they toured the park. The youths, meanwhile, were thrilled to explore alongside them. Guiding, chatting, laughing, and soaking up every moment of shared adventure and when we reached the adventure playground, the young people and the seniors let off steam together. The swings, slides and climbing frames didn’t stand a chance.
From baby rhinos to chilled‑out lions, from meerkats on duty to giraffes greeting the team, the day was full of wonder. But the real magic was the bond between generations. The joy, the care, the humour, and the memories made under a perfect summer sky.
A fantastic sign‑off to a summer of sunshine, community and connection. At CDI, when generations come together, something special always happens
