'Beast of Hackney' revealed as huge pet dog
Photo - Helen Murray
The mystery of a huge black creature, dubbed 'The Beast of Hackney Marches', which was photographed in woodland in May, has been solved.
The black animal, spotted skulking amongst the trees, was a temporary cause for concern for local dog-walkers, but peace was restored when it was revealed to be no more than a large Newfoundland dog, belonging to the drummer from the 90s British indie band Kula Shaker.
The dog, named Willow, was photographed by startled student Helen Murray and the photographs promptly published on the front page of a local newspaper.
Her owners, Paul and Nicole Winter-Hart, immediately recognised their pet. Nicole said: "I am still laughing. I think this poor girl, Helen, saw Willow, our dog. My husband recognised her straight away when he saw the paper. He brought a copy to show me and said: ‘Look. Willow’s made the front page!'"
She added: "'I knew it was her immediately. It is funny because our friends call her the Beast of Dunlace Road and now she is the Beast of Hackney Marshes."
However, while it seems that the residents of East London can once again sleep easy in their beds, Helen remains unsure. She commented: "I am pretty sure it was not a dog as it was far too big and its build was not dog-like."
The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) is inviting applications from veterinary students to attend a one-week extramural studies (EMS) placement in July 2026.
