Felicity Kendal
The Good Life and Rosemary & Thyme actress talks riding Arabs in India, rescuing a dog from a rubbish tip in Singapore and championing Blue Cross Are you an animal lover?
I grew up touring India with my family — we were nomads. My mother rescued a Siamese cat and gave him to me on Christmas morning. This cat was extraordinary. We travelled mostly by train with him in a wicker basket. He’d live in the compartment for a day or two as we went across India — and even used the loo. We’d spend three weeks in Lahore, Bombay or Delhi or somewhere and when we were packing to leave the cat would come back. We never lost him.
Tell us about riding in India…
We used to go to hill stations where the mode of transport was a horse. It was like hiring a car. I’d say I need a horse to get to school in Nainital, or we want to go up the mountain to watch the sunset. Riding slightly scared me, but the horses were a wonderful Indian strain of Arabs and I rode a lot.
Who was your first pet?
A rescue dog we found on a rubbish tip in Singapore. My sister and I always had dogs. We took him home to India and he lived to a ripe old age. I called him Rubbish.
Do you still ride?
I did a little riding in London before having my second son and had dressage lessons at my cousin’s farm in Warwickshire, but it wasn’t the same. I had been spoiled riding over the mountains in India, so I never got into it in England. If I’m lucky enough to see a horse in London, I can’t take my eyes off him.
Do you have any animals?
I have a Cocker Spaniel, George, who is nearly 17. When we were filming Rosemary & Thyme he was in a box in the kitchen, howling. His mother wouldn’t have anything to do with him. He needed a home and I had him when he was eight weeks old. I also have a Burmese cat, Wilson.
Where is your favourite place in the world?
India. There’s a positive joy that is fundamental. The love of discussion and laughter and sharing food. There is a strong family ethic too. Grandma and Grandad live with you and this extended family creates a really close society. Obviously, there is huge poverty, but if you love India you love it with all its foibles.
Why did you become involved with Blue Cross?
It’s a natural thing for me to champion the work they do after seeing neglect and starving animals in India. Before my first voiceover, years ago, I visited Blue Cross in Victoria and was so impressed. It’s completely funded by generous people, providing free care for animals
“This extraordinary cat travelled across India with us by train. We never lost him”
and support for underprivileged owners who may not have the money to give the care their animals need.
How did you get through lockdown?
Initially by tidying cupboards. Then the firm belief that it will be over. I appreciate family and being with groups of people more than ever. We are pack animals and it brought home to me how awful it must be to be lonely.
How do you relax?
I always feel better after working out and I find yoga relaxing. I like just being with people, having a glass of wine, something to eat and chatting. That is when I’m happiest. It used to be when I was on tour, but touring is not an option at the moment due to Covid.
Country or city?
I’m a country girl who likes the city. I live in the city because that’s where my work is mostly, and also my family. But when I’m in the country I’m happy. We go on holiday near the sea — that’s the ideal place to live.
Favourite tipples?
Black coffee with honey, vodka soda and red wine.
Best piece of advice you’ve been given?
I read this once and wrote it down: Fear is not an option. I think it’s helpful in all sorts of ways. Fear is something we feel in small or large amounts depending on what’s happening. When you’re afraid and overcome it, that’s being brave. It’s getting back on the horse after a fall. I’ve seen that again and again with my family.