Published on: Tuesday 01 Mar 2022 at 00:14
Our annual Winter Walkies 5k dog walk took place on Sunday 27th February, starting and finishing at the hospice in Hastingwood, Harlow. The event was a huge success.
Challenges and Events Fundraiser, Dani De’ath, said, “What a fantastic turnout we had, all beneath blue skies. This year we saw 104 excited dogs and 207 humans set off on the countryside route, with an amazing array of breeds from bulldogs to basset hounds, lurchers to labradoodles taking part.
“We hope to have raised around £3,000 from the day,” explains Dani. “This could cover the cost of two days of specialist care by our community palliative care team. Thank you to everyone who came along on the day, and all the wonderful volunteers who supported the event. We couldn’t do it without you!”
Leader of the pack
At the front of the pack was the Cutest Canine competition winner, 7-year-old black lab Milo, from Saffron Walden who took home his ‘top dog’ prize of a hamper full of treats.
Alison, Milo’s owner, wanted to take part to raise money for the hospice as St Clare cared for both her parents. She said, “It was lovely to meet everyone and as usual everyone was lovely. I had a little ‘moment’ on the way to the hospice, as I hadn’t been there since Mum was there but I soon felt the love envelop me again! That may sound over dramatic, but that’s how it felt. We had a lovely morning. The sun Mum and Dad sent us was fabulous, Milo had a ball – especially when he found the little stream and some muddy puddles. It was great to talk to all the dogs (and their owners!). Best of all, raised around £250 for the hospice, which is great as it’s still a tough time for everyone! “
