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

  • Jane Thurnell-Read

    A 76-year-old vegan weightlifter who advocates for a healthy lifestyle and diet as the keys to ageing well.

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  • John Machin

    "Plant foods are ideal for health and fitness; they’re what we naturally thrive on. Now in my seventh decade, I have never been fitter or healthier."

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  • A special birthday

    In 1967, The British Vegetarian reported on a very special birthday.

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  • Judy Ward

    "We take animals for granted and once you realise you can live healthily and happily without the need to cause suffering to another being, it’s fantastic."

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  • Caroline Stockmann

    "I used to experience criticism when people found out I didn’t eat meat, as if I was somehow judging others."

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  • John Awen

    "The biggest change over time has been a move from a lot of quick and easy heavily processed vegan foods to more meals prepared at home from scratch."

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  • Ray O'Leary

    Ray found a way of making sure his beliefs would always be recognised.

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  • Victoria Featherstone Pearce

    "Veganism runs in my veins and in my heart so this would be extremely important to me that this would continue until the end of my days."

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  • A vegetarian record-breaker

    'Big' Bill Pickering, the vegetarian channel swimmer.

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  • Paul Youd

    Octogenarian vegan athlete: "It’s never too late to go vegan."

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Share your story

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