The ‘Iron lady’ showed her softer side by adopting ‘Marvin’ from the Mayhew Animal Home
She may have been nicknamed the ‘Iron Lady’ but the late Baroness Thatcher showed her softer side by adopting a cat from an animal charity in Kensal Green.
It has been revealed that the former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, who died yesterday at the age of 87, adopted ‘Marvin’ from the Mayhew Animal Home in Trenmar Gardens, in 2007.
The conservative politician, who was the country’s only female Prime Minister between 1979 to 1990, decided to give a pet a new home four years after her husband Denis died at the age of 88.
Caroline Yates, Mayhew CEO, said: “Margaret Thatcher adopted a beautiful cat called Marvin from The Mayhew in 2007. Of course in circumstances like these people have varying conflicting options about world renowned political figures.
“At The Mayhew, however, we remain focussed on ensuring that all our homeless animals are able to go to a home where they receive dedicated love and care and a second chance at happiness, and we are glad that when Margaret Thatcher chose to welcome a cat into her life she chose a rescue cat and one who needed that second chance.”
Other famous supporters include George Michael, Ricky Gervais and Chrissie Hynde.
Last week, The Only Way is Essex star Lauren Pope and Chart Show presenter Donatella Panayiotou paid The Mayhew a visit to find out more about the homeless pets in their care.
Established in 1886, The Mayhew receives no funding from Hammersmith and Fulham Council or the Government.
Instead it relies entirely on donations and legacies from generous benefactors to meet its running costs of around £3,000 a day.
It also relies heavily on kind-hearted volunteers who give up their free time and help the staff with their duties.
In addition to looking after the animals, which are usually dogs, cats, rabbits and guinea pigs, the Mayhew also offers a range of veterinary services for pet owners, including free neutering of “bull breed” dogs.
For more information about The Mayhew call 020 8969 0178 or visit www.mayhewanimalhome.org
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