A host of Cumbria’s most adorable pets and their child owners will be the focus of an unusual exhibition later this summer. 29th September 2024.

Pictures taken by leading Lake District photographer Glynis Bland will go on display at the RSPCA Hall in Kendal, featuring 200 dogs, kittens, hamsters, ponies – and even a barn owl.Glynis has been taking the photos for the last few months, at the RSPCA Hall and, in the case of larger pets, out on location. Glynis has now hit target.

“Capturing the bond between children and their pets can be a very precious memory for families,” said Glynis, a top portrait photographer who has recently been taking wildlife pictures.

A keen supporter of the RSPCA Westmorland, for whom she is a trustee, she previously organised a spectacular fundraiser, an exhibition of photographs of people aged from one to 100, along with an auction and a raffle.That raised thousands of pounds for Macmillan Cancer, Bay Search and Rescue, and Alder Hey Children’s Hospital. The star guest at the gala show at the Villa at Levens was Stanley Taylor from Grange-over-Sands, the baby whose story prompted Glynis to set up the project. She photographed him when newborn, and then before and after his treatment for a hole in his heart at Alder Hey.

Her portfolio of portraits of people from all over the country culminated in a huge collage which was shown at the event, and the publication of a book of all the faces. There was also a special commemorative book made for Stanley and his family.

This time, the photo shoot for each child and their pet is free, and their family will receive one free digital image. Each child will receive a printed image from the Exhibition and if parents would like the full gallery of the children's images. Glynis is asking for a small donation to RSPCA Westmorland.

All the purchased galleries will be sent to parents after the exhibition day.

There will also be a book published which will be available to purchase again all proceeds going to RSPCA Westmorland.

Four Cumbrian schools have been involved in the project – St Martin and St Mary, and St Cuthbert’s, in Windermere; Staveley School; and Crosthwaite primary.

"Her initiative has been warmly welcomed by the charity’s staff, Hayley Stalker and Kerry Moran. Branch administrator Hayley said: “ We are delighted that Glynis is helping our animals in this very novel and fun way. The children are loving getting involved and are having a wonderful time being photographed with their pets.

Funds raised with be forwarded to RSPCA Westmorland for special projects as defined by RSPCA Westmorland and Glynis Bland Photography. RSPCA Westmorland are aware of this fundraiser and fully supportive of the project. Charity number is 232236.

The projects that we anticipate funding will be for the the education of children in animal training and welfare. If more funds are raised than the target this will support more children in our projects.