RSPCA turns 201 - but are we any kinder to animals?

Next Monday marks what I regard as a fundamental anniversary in human decency.

- with Joe Riley

On June 16, 1824 - 201 years ago to be precise - a London vicar, Arthur Broome, met up with 22 likeminded individuals in the Old Slaughter Coffee House in London's Strand.

Among them was the MP William Wilberforce, whom history primarily honours as the prime mover in the abolition of the slave trade. But on this occasion, the congregation of determined souls had gathered to determine another great purpose. On that day, they founded what was to become the RSPCA: the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Two centuries on, we are still familiar with television adverts demonstrating that their work is far from over. Not just because of the neglect of callous individuals, but because of institutionalised pressures.

I am reminded personally each year when I return to a mountain village near to my Costa Del Sol bolthole, to see hapless donkeys pulling mini-coaches laden with tourists through the streets.