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Cheddar Valley

Speaker Meeting: Ashley Jones MBE - The History of the Dickin Medal (The Animal VC)

Event type: Meeting
Date: Thursday 7th January 2027
Time: 2:00 pm
Venue: Cheddar Village Hall
Cost: £2

The extraordinary bravery of animals in wartime.

An inspiring and deeply moving journey through the remarkable stories of animals whose courage, loyalty, and sacrifice helped shape the outcome of conflicts throughout history.

This powerful presentation explores the vital roles played by animals during wartime and examines the history of the Dickin Medal, widely regarded as the animal equivalent of the Victoria Cross. Established in 1943 by Maria Dickin, founder of the People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA), the award recognises acts of outstanding gallantry and devotion to duty by animals serving alongside military and civilian forces.

Ash was born and raised in South Wales and began his professional journey at the age of 17 when he joined the Royal Air Force. After serving for ten years in the RAF, he went on to build a distinguished 23-year career as a police officer in both England and Wales.