Thousands Attend RescueFest as Animal Charities Unite in Walton Hall Park

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 2nd July, 2025
Contact: info@rescuefestuk.org
Website: www.rescuefestuk.org
Social: @rescuefest on Facebook and Instagram

Thousands of animal lovers descended on Walton Hall Park this Sunday for the inaugural RescueFest, a new festival created to support animal charities and promote long-term welfare collaboration across the UK.

GB wheelchair racing couple, Hannah Cockroft and Nathan Maguire with Archie, winner of the Cutest Puppy class. Photo provided by Pawsitively Does It.

Organised by People’s Animal Welfare Society (PAW Society), the event welcomed between 3,000 and 4,000 attendees, offering a packed day of entertainment, education, and shopping - all with the aim of supporting animals in need.

“Together we save more paws - that’s what this is all about,” said a PAW Society spokesperson. “We wanted to give charities a free space to connect with the public, raise funds, and build partnerships.”

A Diverse Celebration of Animal Welfare

The event featured more than just dog rescues. Snakes, spiders, reptiles, and a miniature Shetland pony were among the animals present, highlighting the wide variety of causes supported by attending organisations. Other organisations attended but without their animals on welfare grounds, however this didn’t stop them raising donations for their important work.

Organisations included County Cat Rescue and Sanctuary who operate an indoor only rehoming policy from County Road in Liverpool; Wirral Animal Samaritans who aimed to break the stigma surrounding animals like snakes and spiders; and The Bunnyjackpot Foundation who aim to educate the public on the complex needs of rabbits.

In total, 25 animal rescues and campaigning groups joined together to celebrate their work. “It was important to us that charities representing all species had a voice here,” organisers said.

A snake rescued by Wirral Animal Samaritans who rescue domestic and exotic animals as well as birds and wildlife. Photo provided by Wirral Animal Samaritans.

Big Names Supported the Mission

The event was supported by several celebrity guests including Paralympic gold medallist Hannah Cockroft, reality TV star Minah Shannon, and social media sensation Skylar the Samoyed, who had the tough job of judging some of the fun dog show categories.

“The Traitors” star, Minah Shannon with Gerite, winner of the Waggiest Tail class. Photo provided by Pawsitively Does It.

Skylar the Samoyed and owner Ryan with Lando, winner of the Most Appealing Face class. Photo provided by Pawsitively Does It.

Visitors also enjoyed live demonstrations, dog shows, interactive activities, and a funfair. A dedicated marketplace featured many vendors selling ethical and vegan-friendly products, with food stalls catering to a wide range of dietary needs.

Backed by Sponsors and Broadcast

RescueFest was made possible thanks to sponsors including Agria Pet Insurance, MyPet, Canine Therapies, Bartley Studios, and Animal Trust Vets. The event also attracted media attention, with the BBC conducting interviews and covering the festivities.

What’s Next for RescueFest?

Following the strong turnout and positive feedback, PAW Society has confirmed that two RescueFest events are planned for 2026, one in the North West and another in the South East of England.

RescueFest’s organisers say their focus remains on keeping the platform free for charities and accessible to the public. “This isn’t just a festival - it’s a movement. And it’s only just beginning.”

For updates and future event details, visit www.rescuefestuk.org or follow @rescuefest on social media.