Charity goes ‘walkies’ for needy animals

29 September 2008

The Blue Cross animal charity is inviting animal lovers and their dogs to join the staff from its adoption centre at Northiam for a fun dog walk on Sunday 12 October. Why not get out and enjoy the crisp autumn air and turning leaves while exploring the footpaths and lanes around the picturesque East Sussex village?

All funds raised on the day will go towards caring for needy animals at the Northiam centre, which takes in homeless or unwanted cats and dogs and finds them new homes.  The walk begins and ends at The Blue Cross centre at St Francis Fields, Northiam, but walkers can join from 10am to 1pm at any point along the route, which takes around an hour to complete.  Hot refreshments will be available to warm up chilly participants.

Maria Marmo, Blue Cross centre manager at Northiam said: “We’re really looking forward to the fun dog walk and hope lots of people and dogs will join us to support their local Blue Cross. It’s a great way to get some exercise and meet fellow dog lovers, all for a great cause.”

The Blue Cross does not receive any government funding so relies on the support of the public to continue its vital work. The minimum donation of £5 from each participant will help the centre to care for pets until loving new homes are found.

For more information about the walk or for a map of the route, please contact The Blue Cross at Northiam on 01797 252243.           

ENDS

Notes to Editors

Photos of animals at the Northiam centre are available on request, please contact the press office.

Press are welcome to attend, please contact the press office.

The Northiam animal adoption centre was opened in the late 1960s, and serves the communities of South East Sussex and parts of Kent. The site was converted from old farmhouses, and the reception is housed in a distinctive Oast house formerly used to dry hops. The centre can accommodate up to eleven dogs and 34 cats, as well as providing ample facilities for up to 25 horses and ponies on the equine part of the site. Hundreds of animals are successfully rehomed every year.

Companion animal reception opening hours: Monday and Wednesday to Saturday: 9.30am to 12noon and 1pm to 3.30pm. Sundays: 10am to 12noon. Bank Holidays: 9.30am to 12noon and 1pm to 3pm.

The Blue Cross animal charity provides practical support, information and advice for pet and horse owners. Through its network of small animal and equine adoption centres it rehomes thousands of animals each year. Its hospitals provide veterinary care for the pets of people who cannot afford private vets' fees. 

For more information, please visit www.bluecross.org.uk.

Media contact

Sophia Khan, The Blue Cross – 020 7932 4060 or sophia.khan@bluecross.org.uk