COVENTRY will remember the animals lost to war on Sunday with the laying of a wreath of purple poppies.
The special service will get under way at 2.30pm at the War Memorial Park Peace Garden and will see Coun John McNicholas, who laid the city’s first purple poppies as Lord Mayor last year, joined by animal rights and welfare groups.
The purple poppy was introduced in 2006 by the charity Animal Aid, which felt our four-legged friends who died in war, mostly horses and dogs, should also not be forgotten.
The appeal has since been adopted by the Murphy’s Army charity, which has since raised thousands of pounds for causes including K9 Heroes, The Horse Trust, Smokey Paws, Household Cavalry Foundation, Bravo Working Dog Rescue and Fireside K9.
Coun McNicholas said: “This year, as every year, I will be proudly wearing my red poppy to remember all the brave service personnel who have given their lives to protect us, and I will be wearing my purple one alongside to remember our faithful animals of all descriptions that have served in conflicts around the globe, and continue to do so.
“They are a part of our Armed Forces, and their love and loyalty deserve recognition.
“Last year’s event was very well supported, and this year I look forward to seeing even more people and their pets at the service to help our city pay tribute and remember.”
Visit theyalsoserved.org to buy purple poppies from the Murphy’s Army charity.
