Celia Hammond's Journey from Fashion Icon to Animal Welfare Pioneer
In an exclusive revelation, Celia Hammond, once a celebrated model of the swinging 1960s, has dedicated the past four decades to rescuing animals through her charity, the Celia Hammond Animal Trust. With sites in London and Sussex, she now spearheads a fundraising campaign for a new £1.5 million centre, highlighting the urgent need for animal welfare support.
A Star-Studded Past and a Compassionate Turn
Celia Hammond, now 85, graced countless Vogue covers and worked with legendary photographers like Norman Parkinson, David Bailey, and Terry O'Neil. Her modelling career took her to Paris and New York, where she mixed with stars such as Joanna Lumley and singer-songwriter Donovan. However, a lifelong passion for animals led her to abandon the glamour of the catwalk.
She explains: "The need is greater than ever. People ask 'why animals?' but I say 'why not?' How we treat animals reflects our compassion as a society. Once we lose that, it can extend to children or the elderly. Animals ease loneliness and become integral parts of our lives."
Building a Legacy of Rescue and Rehabilitation
Since establishing her trust in 1986, Celia has helped rehome over 73,000 abandoned and unwanted animals. The charity operates low-cost neutering clinics in Lewisham and Canning Town, along with a sanctuary in Sussex, all adhering to a non-destruction ethos. Significant rescues include saving 204 Yorkshire Terriers and 37 cats from horrific conditions, and intervening in a south London case involving 48 dogs and 12 cats.
Celia recalls: "One of the worst scenes we encountered had dogs kept in airline pet carriers without food or water. It's heartbreaking, but this work also shows the best of human nature when we save them."
Challenges and Celebrity Support in Modern Times
Recent years have seen increased pressure on the trust due to the Covid pandemic, which spurred a rise in pet ownership, coupled with vet shortages, escalating fees, and the cost of living crisis. Celia notes that other charities have scaled back services, exacerbating the welfare crisis.
Despite these challenges, the trust has garnered support from celebrities like Rod Stewart and Johnny Depp, who performed a private charity concert. Celia now appeals directly to the public for donations to fund the new animal centre, aiming to continue her mission of making a tangible difference.
She reflects: "My modelling days were fun, but rescuing animals is where I truly make an impact. I work seven days a week with no regrets."
