Brilliantly led and narrated by Animals Asia UK’s, Fiona Osler, supporters thoroughly enjoyed a highly entertaining and interesting walk on 29 September, through leafy parks exploring the animal history of London as part of our celebrations of World Animal Day.

Under beautiful clear skies showing London off at its best in its autumn colours, the group met up at the Two Bears Fountain by Lancaster Gate in Kensington Gardens, a fitting beginning for a walk that celebrated some of London’s more famous animals and the people that championed their welfare from Queen Victoria to Richard (Dick) Martin MP.

We learned about the events and campaigns that led to the Martins Act 1822 and ultimately the RSPCA, of the tragic elephant Chuni whose gruesome death led to much outrage across London, and of the many animals who were either sacrificed or drafted in to help during the history of warfare.

Many of the monuments are little known and well hidden, including the famous pets’ cemetery by Lancaster Gate, but many are easily accessed by the public and should be visited by all animal lovers, especially the very impressive Animals In War Memorial near to Marble Arch.

This was a fascinating walk, much enjoyed by all those who took part.  Do join Fiona and Animals Asia on the next one, probably in 2014.

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