Veggie Voices

Fascinating online exhibition tells stories of veg*n pioneers, past and present

A rich history

The United Kingdom has a rich history of vegetarianism and veganism, with pioneers of the UK movement residing in Manchester as early as the 18th century.

Salford’s first MP was notably a passionate vegetarian, as was suffragette Leonora Cohen. More recent advocates include British businessperson, Deborah Meaden, and racing car driver Sir Lewis Hamilton – both vegan.

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Plant-based living today

Today, interest in plant-based eating is stronger than ever. Around 63% of people globally are open to eating more plant-based food, while almost half are actively trying to reduce their meat consumption. Across Europe, these figures are even higher. For many, the motivation goes beyond health – environmental impact and animal welfare are key drivers.

V for Life has been compiling a fascinating archive telling the stories of veg*ns.

With the rich history along with present day popularity of meat-free diets, the exhibition is highly relevant, giving a voice to veg*ns, past and present. We, like everyone, hold views and values that deserve to be respected.

Veggie Voices

  • Benjamin Zephaniah

    "I just knew that I didn’t want to eat animals when I was 11, and when I understood the implications of using animal products, I went vegan."

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  • Dugald Semple

    Semple was a vegan pioneer and lived a simple, mostly vegan lifestyle more than 100 years ago. He held several prominent roles in the vegetarian organisations of the time and campaigned tirelessly for advocating a meatless diet, declaring that cow’s milk and hens’ eggs were “most assuredly not for a grown-up human being” . Semple was arguably the most famous vegetarian in Scotland during the 1920s-1940s.

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  • David Fruin

    Still running strong at 84, David Fruin’s lifelong commitment to vegetarianism and fitness keeps him moving – whether it’s crossing the finish line of a half marathon, playing the cello, or supporting older veg*ns through V for Life.

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  • Wahid Nasir

    For a decade, Wahid has been a dedicated VfL volunteer, finding purpose and community through his work. Now 61, he continues to support the charity, knowing its mission will be just as vital in the years ahead.

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  • John 'Maz' Marriott

    A long-term vegan and activist, John ‘Maz’ Marriott refused to let M.E. slow him down. Thanks to VfL’s support, his new scooter keeps him fighting for animals – on city streets and in muddy fields alike.

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  • Louise Hird

    Mum-of-three Louise Hird scooped the title of the UK and Ireland’s hottest vegan over 50 at the age of 52.

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  • Tim Barford

    Tim Barford runs VegfestUK events and Yaoh Hemp Products and has been a vegan activist spanning five decades.

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  • Barbara Shaw

    Barbara went vegan in 2016, describing herself as a new vegan oldie! She thought that she would miss all her favourite foods, particularly eggs and milk and definitely cheese. However, she shouldn't have worried because she absolutely loves her diet.

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  • Dennis Flack

    We celebrated with VfL tenant Dennis Flack on the occasion of his 100th birthday.

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  • Annette Wardell

    The celebrated soprano sings the praises of an ethical diet.

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Share your story

Get in touch if you’d like to share your own veg*n story with us.