Running through the streets of London dressed like a gorilla sounds like a university orientation programme gone awry.

But for now Anna Horsfield, 18, and her father Drew, putting on a monkey suit is a way to bond.

The two plan to take part in the seven-kilometre London Great Gorilla Run this month in an effort to raise money for Rwandan gorilla.

It is also a kind of send off before Miss Horsfield begins studying law at the University of Kent.

"I am facing the challenge of a lifetime as I gear up for this," said Mr. Horsfield, who is a Chartered Valuation Surveyor.

"I am usually seen casting my eye over property Island-wide in Bermuda, but on September 27, I will be swapping a Bermuda banana patch for a sea of primates and chasing behind my daughter Anna across the City and London bridges to raise money for The Gorilla Organisation."

Mr. Horsfield, 53, said he has until now led a sheltered life.

"I've never even run after a bus before," he said. "Now I'm getting up every day at 6.30 a.m. to go for a run before work. I must be bananas."

The Horsfield's aim is to exceed the target of £800 for the Charity.

"This event ties in with a planned weekend in London just prior to Anna embarking on her undergraduate degree in law," said Mr. Horsfield.

They will be staying just down the river from the start of the run.

"We're familiar with the route," said Mr. Horsfield. "Crisscrossing Tower Bridge and zipping down the embankment with hundreds of gorilla suited fundraisers will be a hairy experience!"

Although there are only approximately 700 gorilla left in the wild, there will be plenty of them in London on race day.

"Gorillas are such gentle giants and their population numbers are severely threatened as man encroaches on their habitat," said Mr. Horsfield."

Mr. Horsfield said he couldn't think of any better way to spend a day in London.

"The Gorilla Organisation works to protect the endangered mountain gorilla in its native habitat. It also works to ensure that local people benefit from their unique natural heritage.

"The Organisation, founded by the late Dian Fossey who lived with the gorillas, is involved in education, conservation and public awareness.

The Horsfields are looking for support as they prepare to "go ape".

"Even a few dollars will make a huge difference and mean that The Gorilla Organisation can continue their invaluable work," said Mr. Horsfield.

To sponsor the Horsfields visit their online fundraising page at http://www.justgiving.com/bermudabananas.

You can pay by credit or debit card, and the money will go directly to The Gorilla Organisation.

United Kingdom taxpayers will automatically receive 28 per cent extra in Gift Aid.

"This makes Justgiving the most efficient way of sponsoring Bermuda Bananas," said Mr. Horsfield.

For further information call Mr. Horsfield at 747- 8855.

For further information on The Gorilla Organisation and the run please contact http://www.greatgorillas.org/london.