Man walks for first time since lion attack

[Nergal]

 

A wildlife park owner in South Africa, Michael Hodge, has walked for the first time since he was mauled on Saturday by a lion he raised from birth.

The 72 year-old UK citizen, who sustained injuries around his neck and a broken jaw from the attack, is said to be traumatised by the incident, which led to the killing of Shamba the lion.

Mr Hodge’s spokeswoman Bernadette Maguire said that he walked with assistance from a physiotherapist at a private hospital in South Africa's main city, Johannesburg.

She added that he will probably remain in hospital for a few weeks.

“His wounds are still open until doctors are sure there is no infection,” Ms Maguire told me.

She told local media: "He is very upset about the loss of Shamba and I think he is trying to put up a brave face, but he is really battling to come to terms [with] what has happened."

Kwaito musician Arthur Mafokate posted a picture of the recovering safari park owner on Instagram.

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"He is very upset about the loss of Shamba and I think he is trying to put up a brave face, but he is really battling to come to terms [with] what has happened," Ms Maguire told local media.

A video showed Mr Hodge being attacked and dragged by the large male lion inside its fenced enclosure.

The lion was shot by a ranger who came to his rescue.

Marakele Predator Centre, which Mr Hodge owns, remains closed.