The Lincolnshire Wolds National Landscape partners with Channel 5’s the Yorkshire Vet on pet bereavement campaign

The Lincolnshire Wolds National Landscape partners with Channel 5’s the Yorkshire Vet on pet bereavement campaign: 

The Lincolnshire Wolds National Landscape is delighted to be working with Peter Wright and the team at Channel 5’s ‘The Yorkshire Vet’ to host a new pet memorial bench. 

The UK is a nation of animal lovers, and many of us count dogs, cats, hamsters and horses (and many other furry, feathered or finned friends) as part of the family; however, the impact of the loss of a pet is often underestimated. 

Channel 5’s Yorkshire Vet, Peter Wright, recently opened a pet memorial garden close to his surgery in Thirsk, North Yorkshire. Wanting to find a way for people across the country to be able to mark their own pet bereavements, he approached National Landscapes to ask if they would install memorial benches in some of the UK’s most iconic and beloved places.   

Now the Lincolnshire Wolds is one of eight National Landscapes across England hosting a bench that anyone can visit for quiet contemplation in memory of their lost pet. 

Stephen Jack, the Lincolnshire Wolds National Landscape Manager said: 

“We’re really pleased to be working with Channel 5 and Peter Wright, the Yorkshire Vet on the important issue of pet loss. Thanks to the landowners John & Claire Hair, we now have a memorial bench in a beautiful spot for people to enjoy a moment’s reflection.” 

Peter Wright, Channel 5’s The Yorkshire Vet said: 

“Pet bereavement is a very real issue which is often downplayed. I’m delighted that the National Landscapes have got involved with my campaign to recognise the grief we feel when we lose a pet. I hope that people will enjoy visiting the new benches, taking solace in the beautiful surroundings of National Landscapes at a time of loss.” 

You can find the bench next to the Viking Way, at Nettleton Grange, where you can sit and enjoy a view of the Nettleton Valley.  

The Nettleton Valley is probably one of the most walked and loved sections of the Viking Way and Nettleton Grange is home to the Viking Herd of White Cattle and the Lindum Lusitano herd of horses. John & Claire have farmed this landscape for decades, caring for the land, the wildlife and most importantly, their cherished animals. This bench marks the passing of two of their beloved Lusitanos, Fragata and Delfina, whose grace, spirit and loyal companionship filled their lives with joy and love.  

As the Viking Way celebrates its 50th year, it’s great that those walking the route can pause for a moment’s reflection: The Viking Way 149-mile walking route runs through Lincolnshire, Leicestershire and Rutland. It opened in 1976 and its name reflects the influence of Norse settlers in the east of Britain. The route starts on the banks of the Humber, passing through rural Lincolnshire, through the Lincolnshire Wolds National Landscape, market towns, the city of Lincoln and a series of villages, then follows an ancient trackway before reaching Oakham in Rutland. 

This bench, in this location, with these landowners is the true embodiment of the ethos of the Lincolnshire Wolds… 

‘The Landscape is Beautiful; the People, & their pets, make it Outstanding’ 

Location w3w ///supposes.admiral.flops 

Grid Ref: TF 117 993 Postcode: LN7 6TA 

Please note, no vehicular access to the bench, park at the Ramblers Car Park and walk to the bench.  

w3w ///shocked.baseballs.slurping 

Grid Ref: TF 111 991 Postcode: LN7 6TA 

Key messages 

• National Landscapes are working with Peter Wright and the team behind Channel 5's The Yorkshire Vet on a special campaign raising awareness of the importance of grieving for much-loved pets. 

• Ten new benches have been placed in National Landscapes throughout England, where people can visit and take a moment to remember much loved pets they have lost. 

• Most people live within a 30 minute journey time of their nearest National Landscape with many close to urban centres, so they are the perfect place to go to experience natural beauty and tranquillity.  

Frequently asked Questions….. 

Can I visit a bench to remember my pet?  

Yes, benches are all sited in publicly accessible places.  

Can I take my dog to the bench? 

Dogs on leads are welcome! 

Can I bring flowers to the bench? 

Please don’t bring flowers. Do use the bench to take a moment in remembrance of your lost pet. We’re unable to clean up any flowers that are left on benches when they die, and because they are in the countryside, bins are not always provided nearby. The benches are intended for everyone to use for their own quiet contemplation and remembrance of their own pets.   

Why have you got these benches? 

Yorkshire Vet Peter Wright wanted to create a new way to recognise the issue of pet bereavement, that people across the country could enjoy in beautiful places.  

Who paid for the benches? 

They have been donated by a generous anonymous donor, sited with the permission of the landowner, installed and maintained by the National Landscape team.  

Are the benches made of sustainable wood? 

Yes, they are made of FSC certified British oak from the Wyre Forest, made by Coppice Creations in Worcestershire.