Bellows from Runciman’s veterinary Forge, Downing Street, now at Cheddars lane (MoC3.8.73)

15 Downing Street

History of 15 Downing Street

1861

Benjamin Rider, 64, groom, b Essex

1913

Banham and Runciman, veterinary surgeons shoeing forge

The straps were passed under the horse’s belly.

3 December 1959
The Inquiry into the Lion Yard scheme was told that the Petty Cury frontage should be excluded from redevelopment: the present useful buildings would be preserved and the character of the street maintained. But Planners said they could not be adequately served as they lacked any rear access. Runciman’s veterinary premises in Downing Street had been used for 150 years and were specially designed for the purpose. They have dealt with animals as small as a mouse and as large as an elephant. The proposed replacement buildings were incompatible with the character of Cambridge.
Credit: Mike Petty Archive, Cambridge DOWNING STREET & PEMBROKE STREET Scrapbook, references 59 12 03 & a & 04 & 04a.

17 July 1971
Runciman’s veterinary surgeons: profile of Cambridge business; has just moved from Downing Street to Chesterton Road
Credit: Mike Petty Archive, Cambridge DOWNING STREET & PEMBROKE STREET Scrapbook, reference 71 07 17.

2 February 1972
Downing Street veterinary surgery used by Runciman, built as part of former Bird Bolt Hotel, demolished – photo
Credit: Mike Petty Archive, Cambridge DOWNING STREET & PEMBROKE STREET Scrapbook, reference 72 02 02.