27 October 2006

STATEMENT FROM THE VEGETARIAN SOCIETY:

SIR PAUL MCCARTNEY AND
HEATHER MILLS-MCCARTNEY/PETER COX

The Vegetarian Society wishes to make the following statement regarding recent press reports relating to our patron Sir Paul McCartney, our late patron, Lady Linda McCartney, and a former Chief Executive of The Vegetarian Society, Peter Cox:

“Sir Paul McCartney is a valued and treasured supporter of our work raising awareness of the benefits of vegetarianism, and remains so. His late wife, Lady Linda McCartney, our former patron, is also regarded in the highest esteem by The Vegetarian Society for her contribution to vegetarianism in the UK and worldwide.
“ In response to recent press stories regarding Sir Paul McCartney’s impending divorce, we wish to clarify that, other than being briefly employed as chief executive for six weeks in 1985, Peter Cox, has no association with The Vegetarian Society.
“ Finally, The Vegetarian Society does not concern itself with the private lives of any of our patrons and that policy continues.”

Ends

Notes for editors

• All press enquiries must be made via The Vegetarian Society’s press office. Contact Collette Walsh on: 0161 925 2012.

• Outside office hours The Vegetarian Society Press Office can be contacted on 07973 108 165. Alternatively, visit the website for lots more information at www.vegsoc.org.

• There are over 3 million vegetarians in the UK.

• A vegetarian diet is one of the healthiest – with lower rates of certain cancers, obesity, heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure. Check our website for information on adapting your diet.

• Being veggie helps the planet and, of course, contributes to animal welfare.

• Christmas 2006 – Saints and Sinners Christmas veggie recipes. Go to: http://www.vegsoc.org/christmas