How many people realised it was World Animals’ Day on Sunday 4th October? Probably not too many outside the wildlife, animal rights and vegan communities.

All those lovely Geordies and their canine companions taking a Sunday morning stroll in Heaton Park, Newcastle, would soon find out about it

Overheard, young guy to girlfriend, “That’s a really nice message for the first 2 lines”!

It seemed the gods only permitted one special day for the animals, in Newcastle at least. We awoke Monday morning to soaking heavy rain. I took Holly for a short walk in the park. Of our chalk challenge there was not a trace on the glistening paths. Fingers crossed that someone on Sunday had liked the message right through to the very last line.