GETTING THE BIGGER PICTURE

The success of the World Wildlife Fund stems from its ability to deal with a wide variety of environmental concerns, says lifelong supporter Tony Matthews.

Ever since he was old enough to open a newspaper, Tony has been a keen supporter of the World Wildlife Fund.

He also admires the bravery of Greenpeace, the determination of Friends of the Earth and other campaigners for the environment.

Half a century ago he first became aware of the plight of wildlife - "and to this day I believe it is one of the most crucial issues facing the future of the planet," he says.

As an environmental charity, he feels WWF has it about right. It's now concerned not only with the conservation of endangered species but also with the bigger picture.

Climate change and the destruction of wildlife habitats are both now accepted as the critical threats they really
are, he says. "WWF's particular strength is working with governments, institutions, NGOs and so on in those 
parts of the world where the largest problems apply."

He has also done something practical to help in the long term. He's left WWF a legacy in his will so that the 
charity's work with wildlife and the environment can continue into the future. 

It is a very straightforward process. You just approach a recommended solicitor who produces the legal wording
and offers a range of options. What are your exact wishes, who you want to leave your property to, and any 
bequests you want to make. 

Once your family has been catered for, he says, it really does make sense to think of a bequest to a charity such
as WWF. After all, what kind of world do you really want to leave to your family anyway?