A rip-roaring family tiger trail launches in Holmfirth for the summer holidays
When visiting Holmfirth, do not be too surprised if you hear wild tales of a tame tiger, an unlikely but well-known resident of the rural Kirklees town.
What’s happening?
Fenella the Holmfirth Tiger lived with the Overend family in the 1940s. She was often seen out in public with her owners. Holmfirth Library is now inviting visitors to celebrate this unique piece of local history with a family trail that follows the Fenella’s pawprints around the town.
Family trail
The trail will launch on Saturday 22 July 11am – 3pm from Holmfirth Library. Visitors can pick up a map and start their journey. The walk takes 1 – 2 hours and is suitable for all ages including families with children. Other activities on the day include a special Storytime with tiger tales and songs, free tiger craft activities and face painting and a guest appearance by a member of the Overend family. Film footage of Fenella will be shown throughout the day.
Councillor Paul Davies, Cabinet Member for Corporate Services, said:
“The adventures of Fenella the Tiger often echo across the Holme Valleys and beyond, it is an incredible piece of local history. It is great that this family trail has been developed so we can continue to celebrate Fenella’s residency in Holmfirth with the next generation.
“Offering free activities like this where people of all ages can get together, explore and have a “roaringly” good time as the school holidays approach is just fantastic. I would encourage people to come along and learn the true, magical story of how Fenella became a well-known figure in Holmfirth and take part in some fun activities.”
Fenella lived a quiet life amongst the town’s residents making it her home for 10 happy years before sadly passing away with the family by her side.
Free event
The family trail is part of wider activities to attract tourism to Holmfirth and is free to attend. No booking is required.