Comedian Ricky Gervais may have his hands full resurrecting the comic character that brought him fame and fortune but it hasn’t stopped him finding the time to support cuddly bears in China.

Ham & High: Animals Asia benefit at Burgh House. Pictured: Actor Peter Egan with performers Robert Daws, Amy Robbins and musical director Peter Dale, along with organisers Martin Humphrey (back left) and Nicky Vivien Robinson from Animals Asia (back right). Picture: Polly Hancock.Animals Asia benefit at Burgh House. Pictured: Actor Peter Egan with performers Robert Daws, Amy Robbins and musical director Peter Dale, along with organisers Martin Humphrey (back left) and Nicky Vivien Robinson from Animals Asia (back right). Picture: Polly Hancock. (Image: Archant)

The 51-year-old renowned animal lover, currently reviving the role of David Brent from smash hit comedy series The Office with a string of brand new YouTube sketches, popped down to a special charity evening in aid of animals in Asia at Hampstead’s Burgh House on Sunday.

The evening of music, comedy and performance hosted by Downton Abbey actor Peter Egan, 66, alongside acting friend Robert Daws and his wife Amy Robbins, was held to support Animals Asia, a charity for whom Mr Egan is British ambassador.

He said: “It was a really great evening. Ricky Gervais and his partner came, which was fantastic.

“Like me he is a great animal lover and a great supporter of Animals Asia so I was delighted to have him there.”

Following Sunday’s event, Mr Gervais tweeted: “Just spent the most wonderful evening at @BurghHouse1704 with @PeterEgan6 and friends, raising money for @AnimalsAsia. Such a lovely cause”.

Animals Asia, set up 20 years ago, works to end the practice of bear bile farming and improving animal welfare in China and Vietnam.