Bridget Hicks, the founder of the Lagos Animal Protection Society (LAPS) – the Algarve’s first animal welfare society – died this morning (February 19) at the age of 86.
Although the causes of her death are still unknown, the news was confirmed by LAPS volunteers and has already caused a huge wave of sadness on social media.
Bridget opened the Algarve’s first animal welfare society in 1980 after being “horrified” to find there weren’t any others. She had already been involved in animal welfare causes in India, Sri Lanka, Singapore and the Philippines before moving to Portugal.
Bridget was highly respected and admired for her work in the Algarve animal cause and many wished to express their sadness upon hearing the news of her death.
Karen Breen, a friend of Bridget’s and a volunteer at the Cadela Carlota animal association in Lagos, said on her Facebook page: “I’m feeling so sad and upset today having lost a friend and the lady who helped me many times with animals. Bridget Hicks, who started up the first animal protection society here in Portugal, died at 6am this morning. I will miss you Bridget and the animal rescue won’t be the same without you.”
The Facebook post received many emotional responses, including from Kiss FM radio presenter Owen Window: “Truly a sad loss to the world of animal protection and welfare. An eccentric lady who always put our dumb friends before people. For sure we will be playing our tribute next Sunday morning on www.kissfm.pt. So pleased I had the pleasure of promoting and supporting the sterling work Bridget devoted her life to.”
The Resident will update the story as more details become available.
