Heather Mills to Headline Bournemouth’s National Animal Rights Day Celebration This Sunday

Animal welfare campaigners, vegan businesses, musicians and members of the public will gather in Bournemouth this Sunday (7 June) for one of the UK's largest National Animal Rights Day (NARD) celebrations.

The free event takes place from 10am until 4pm at The Triangle, Bournemouth, bringing together speakers, live performers, food vendors, charities and activists as part of a worldwide movement taking place simultaneously in more than 50 countries.

Among the headline speakers will be entrepreneur, athlete and animal advocate Heather Mills, who is set to address attendees during the day alongside leading figures from the animal rights movement, including Juliet Gellatley, founder of Viva!, Liz Farrelly, Vanessa Hudson, Jo-Ann Carey, Charlotte Roy, Tim Barford, Chris Rigby, Nicci Harris, Sarah Abbott, and organisers Sasha and Chris Jolliffe.

The event will also feature live performances from artists including Dippy Bamba, Hunter Bradford, Neil Sexton, James Hook, DJ Just A Mum, Hacobo, Mel Rose and Tom Dubyes.

Visitors can browse dozens of stalls from vegan food vendors, ethical businesses, animal welfare organisations and campaign groups, while cookery and origami demonstrations will run throughout the day.

Speaking ahead of the event, Heather Mills said: "I’m absolutely delighted to be attending National Animal Rights Day in Bournemouth this weekend and to be joining so many passionate people who believe that all animals deserve compassion, respect and protection. It’s going to be amazing!

"Events like this are so important because they bring together people from all walks of life who care about creating a kinder world, whether they are long-time activists, newly curious about animal welfare, or simply looking for positive ways to make a difference.

"I’m particularly looking forward to sharing my talk, discussing the evolution of gut health and why some vegetables can be our 'frenemies', as well as having the opportunity to answer questions and connect with attendees. I’ll also be speaking about the wider journey that has shaped my work as an entrepreneur, athlete and campaigner for animals over many years.

"National Animal Rights Day is ultimately about hope, education and action. I can’t wait to meet everyone in Bournemouth and be part of what promises to be a truly inspiring day."

National Animal Rights Day is observed annually on the first Sunday in June and has grown into a global movement designed to give a voice to animals and raise awareness about their treatment around the world.

The day combines two distinct elements: a memorial ceremony to honour the billions of animals who die at human hands each year, and a celebration highlighting the progress being made towards a more compassionate future through education, advocacy and cruelty-free alternatives.

Organiser and vegan activist Sasha Jolliffe Yasawi said he hopes the Bournemouth event will attract not only campaigners but also members of the wider community who may be curious to learn more.

He said: "National Animal Rights Day is for everyone. Whether you've been involved in animal advocacy for decades, have recently started thinking more about animal welfare issues, or simply want to come along and enjoy a positive community event, you'll be made very welcome.

"One of the things I love most about NARD is its inclusivity. People come from all different backgrounds and perspectives, but they're united by a desire to create a kinder world for animals. We want Bournemouth residents and visitors to come down, see what's happening, enjoy the food, music and speakers, and have conversations that might inspire positive change."

Alongside the talks and entertainment, attendees will be able to visit stalls hosted by organisations including Viva!, Farm Animal Rescue Sanctuary, Vervet Monkey Foundation, Lucas Helps Dogs, Southampton Animal Action, Two Counties Hunt Sabs and a range of ethical traders and vegan food businesses.

National Animal Rights Day organisers describe the event as a combination of "Memorial Day and Independence Day for animals", bringing together thousands of advocates around the world each year in what has been called the largest global collaboration in the vegan movement.

Admission to the Bournemouth event is free, with activities running throughout the day from 10am until 4pm at The Triangle.