Christian adventurer Bear Grylls backs 'Remain' in EU referendum

Adventurer Bear Grylls will cast his vote for Remain in tomorrow's EU referendum.

Christian adventurer Bear Grylls is known for advocating the importance of fellowship and loving thy neighbour.

These are among the reasons he has come out in support of the Remain campaign and will be voting to stay in Europe in tomorrow's referendum.

In a post on Instagram, Grylls makes common cause with footballer David Beckham and the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby in backing Remain. He says it is a "personal view" and adds: "I am proud to represent a number of different & very inspiring organisations, but on this issue, I speak from the heart and only for myself. I also so respect the right for people to have varying views: that's a key part of democracy."

A personal view by Bear Grylls I am proud to represent a number of different & very inspiring organisations, but on this issue, I speak from the heart and only for myself. I also so respect the right for people to have varying views: that’s a key part of democracy. But the EU Referendum is an issue that really matters & this is why I believe it is important to be open. This referendum has been hard to watch at times but, at heart, this is what I feel: I have travelled all over the world and have noticed, so often, how many of the most vulnerable people look to the UK for character and leadership, as if we are like beacons of good manners and fortitude. Our country’s values and contribution are respected across Europe and beyond; the UK is a trusted friend to so many nations. Those things can get lost in the maze of headlines. At such a time for the UK to retreat, run and cut ourselves loose from Europe, when there are so many challenges on our doorstep, to me just doesn't feel either courageous or kind. Europe has many flaws, but I also believe the way to help resolve many of those tough issues is from within. History has taught us that together we achieve more. I guess I believe that to help make the future of the world a better place then that future has to be about partnership. As a taxi driver said to me in Paris recently, we really need you, the UK. Don't desert us when times are tough, stand with us like you always have. That rang true. I have never been a good quitter and I am so proud of the UK and our values: tolerance, kindness, respect, courage and resilience. This is why I want us to stay together and Remain in Europe. Bear Grylls.

A photo posted by Bear Grylls (@beargrylls) on

He says the referendum is an issue that "really matters" and this is why he decided to declare his views.

"This referendum has been hard to watch at times but, at heart, this is what I feel: I have travelled all over the world and have noticed, so often, how many of the most vulnerable people look to the UK for character and leadership, as if we are like beacons of good manners and fortitude.

"Our country's values and contribution are respected across Europe and beyond; the UK is a trusted friend to so many nations."

These things can get lost in the headlines, he adds.

"For the UK to retreat, run and cut ourselves loose from Europe, when there are so many challenges on our doorstep, to me just doesn't feel either courageous or kind.

"Europe has many flaws, but I also believe the way to help resolve many of those tough issues is from within. History has taught us that together we achieve more.

"I guess I believe that to help make the future of the world a better place then that future has to be about partnership. As a taxi driver said to me in Paris recently, we really need you, the UK. Don't desert us when times are tough, stand with us like you always have. That rang true. I have never been a good quitter and I am so proud of the UK and our values: tolerance, kindness, respect, courage and resilience. This is why I want us to stay together and Remain in Europe."

related articles
Bear Grylls: My Christian faith is my backbone
Bear Grylls: My Christian faith is my backbone

Bear Grylls: My Christian faith is my backbone

Bear Grylls: My Christian faith is stronger than my fear of what others might think
Bear Grylls: My Christian faith is stronger than my fear of what others might think

Bear Grylls: My Christian faith is stronger than my fear of what others might think

6 ways to survive an EU referendum
6 ways to survive an EU referendum

6 ways to survive an EU referendum

Hundreds of Christians to pray for EU referendum in Parliament Square

Hundreds of Christians to pray for EU referendum in Parliament Square

EU referendum: Christians on both sides call for \'good disagreement\' as campaign heats up
EU referendum: Christians on both sides call for 'good disagreement' as campaign heats up

EU referendum: Christians on both sides call for 'good disagreement' as campaign heats up

News
13 Christians abducted in church attack in Nigeria
13 Christians abducted in church attack in Nigeria

Thirteen Christians have been abducted by a militia group in Nigeria following a skirmish in Kogi State.

Former moderator of Church of Scotland teams up with pop star to release Christmas song
Former moderator of Church of Scotland teams up with pop star to release Christmas song

What do you do when you've retired from leading a church?

Christians protest LGBT nativity play where Jesus is 'King of the Gays'
Christians protest LGBT nativity play where Jesus is 'King of the Gays'

The university and students' union said the play was within the bounds of free speech laws.

Pro-life campaigner who silently prayed in abortion clinic buffer zone criminally charged
Pro-life campaigner who silently prayed in abortion clinic buffer zone criminally charged

A pro-life campaigner who silently prayed near an abortion clinic in Birmingham has been criminally charged.