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11.07.18

NEWHONOURS Kindness and courage were celebrated in style at the glitzy RSPCA Honours Awards ceremony at the Royal Society in London. During the night we celebrated individuals with an inspirational dedication to animals - as well as a few inspirational animals!

This year's award winners

Thirteen awards were given out on the night to dedicated staff, young fundraisers, brave and long serving supporters, as well as many more. Animal awards were presented to assistance dogs - and one special cat!

Michael Gove MP was awarded Politician of the Year in recognition of steps made in animal welfare this year, including new legislation for the breeding and selling of pets.

The night is an opportunity to recognise and honour those who help to make the lives of animals better through kindness, courage, determination and innovation. Awards are given for bravery and outstanding service and intended to recognise exceptional contributions to animal welfare.The heart warming event was hosted by newsreader Alastair Stewart OBE and featured a star-studded audience including Jo Brand, Angela Rippon, Kate Lawlert, Peter Egan and Deborah Meaden.Kindness and courage were celebrated in style at the glitzy RSPCA Honours Awards ceremony at the Royal Society in London. During the night we celebrated individuals with an inspirational dedication to animals - as well as a few inspirational animals!

This year's award winners

Michael Gove MP was awarded Politician of the Year in recognition of steps made in animal welfare this year, including new legislation for the breeding and selling of pets.

Celebrity Animal Champion of the Year went to comedian John Bishop who thanked us via a video message in which he talked about his extensive collection of rescue animals including dogs, chickens, pigs, sheep and alpacas!

While, The Queen Victoria Gold Award was presented to Eric and Edna Grover, who've been managers at our North West Kent branch for 50 years.

Labrador Elgin, an assistance dog trained by Canine Partners who regularly saves her young owner's life, was also given an Animal Award in recognition of her work.

In the words of our deputy executive Chris Wainwright;

The RSPCA Honours is a fantastic event that the RSPCA is extremely proud of. The evening showcases the work of those who go the extra mile to show compassion and dedication to animals.

There have been so many inspirational and heart warming stories and we hope the awards have helped to highlight the positive power of animals and the impact they have on our lives.

Ambitious schoolgirl wins prestigious Young Person award

A kind-hearted schoolgirl made a New Year's resolution to help animals by taking part in as many epic challenges as she can to raise money for us.

From climbing mountains to marathon bike rides and cake sales, Libby Cantwell from Stockport has managed to smash her target and raise more than £1,000.

On the night, Libby was presented with the prestigious Young Person award.

In her own words:

The reason I'm trying my best to help the RSPCA is because animal cruelty upsets me, so I want to help in any way I can to make sure abused animals have a happier, brighter life and future. I just think, what greater love can you get than from your loving pet?

In January, to kickstart her fundraising drive, Libby and her mum took on a huge 2,949ft challenge by climbing Great Gable in the Lake District, the seventh highest mountain in England.

As well as raising funds for us, Libby has volunteered at a farm designed for disabled adults and children to work with animals and build their confidence.

Libby's mum, Leanne, commented:

We are all extremely proud of Libby's achievements. Her heart is what's led her throughout this fundraising journey. The love she has for animals gives her the strength and courage to tackle any challenge that's presented.

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