Black and white image of a horse standing in front of a motorised horse ambulance

Celebrities help us recreate our history

We sought some celebrity help to recreate our history in our 125th year.

125 years after we first opened our doors, comedian Bill Bailey, actor and TV presenter David Harewood MBE and Paralympian Lauren Steadman MBE (with her rescue dog Kira) have helped recreate images from our historic archives.

Bill Bailey, says: “I had a great time transforming into a Pearly King! I love all animals, so having an opportunity to celebrate Blue Cross’ heritage and highlight the support that they have continued to offer to horses, and other animals, since their inception was really special.” 

Comedian Bill Bailey recreates older photo of a horse and a Pearly King
Bill Bailey dressed as a Pearly King in 2022, celebrating 125 years of Blue Cross
We were formed in 1897 to help the working horses of London, who were often underfed, struggled to carry heavy loads and became injured on slippery asphalt roads created for new motor vehicles. Fast forward to today and we continue to support pets and people through our veterinary, rehoming, pet behaviour, education and pet bereavement services.

Lauren Steadman, says: “It was wonderful to have my beautiful dog Kira on set with me to create this image of a WWI nurse treating a wounded dog. Kira is a rescue dog, so I have a huge appreciation for the work that Blue Cross and pet charities do. Happy birthday Blue Cross, and congratulations on your 125th year.” 

An old image of a Blue Cross nurse looking at a dog in our care, with a recreated photo featuring Lauren Steadman MBE looking at a dog in the same pose
Paralympian Lauren Steadman MBE recreates a photo from our archives with her rescue dog Kira

David Harewood, added: “I am so thrilled to be a part of such a wonderful celebration, and to have had the opportunity to recreate such a special moment between a British soldier and his dog. This campaign not only highlights how long Blue Cross has been around to support pets and people, but also how the love for animals can also span across generations – I’m so proud to be involved!”

Black and white photo of a soldier greeting his dog after returning from war, and a recreation photo featuring David Harewood MBE
TV presented David Harewood MBE recreates the scene of a WW1 soldier and his dog

Five of the team from our Southampton rehoming centre also spared the time to recreate a historic image of five ‘kennel maids’ caring for the dogs of WWII soldiers while they were fighting overseas.

Black and white photo of five ladies and five dogs standing in front of dog kennels
The original 'kennel ladies' in the 1940s
Five women with five dogs, dressed in 1940s overcoats and black boots
Some of our fantastic team from Southampton rehoming centre recreating a small part of our history

— Page last updated 26/05/2022