Ladies go bog snorkelling for charity

Two immensely dedicated animal welfare assistants from The Blue Cross animal adoption centre in Torbay have volunteered to snorkel through a slimy, stinking bog to raise money for the area's needy animals.

Catherine Elliott, 20 from Brixham and Kelly Hennequin, 19, from Paignton have decided to jump into a bog in the middle of Wales and snorkel its length to raise money for The Blue Cross animal adoption centre in Torbay. This is a traditional event and snorkellers from all over the world will be there to raise money for their chosen causes, or to claim the championship.

Catherine said: We don't know if we're looking forward to getting into the bog, or looking forward to it being over, but hopefully we'll raise loads of cash for The Blue Cross to look after all the animals.

Kelly said: People keep telling us we're mad, but I think it's a great way to get money for the homeless animals.  Watch this space for the 'after' photos!

Centre manager Laura Valentine said: This is real dedication to the cause. You have to really love animals to snorkel in a bog, and Catherine and Kelly are two great animal welfare assistants. We are all wishing them the best of luck.

The Blue Cross relies entirely on public donations and receives no government funding. If anyone would like to sponsor Catherine and Kelly for their bog snorkel they should call the animal adoption centre on 01803 327 728, or visit Ashley Prior Lane, Watcombe, Torquay, Devon, TQ1 4SE.

Media contact: Susan Crown
Direct line: 0207 932 4066
Mobile: 07880 781 637

Notes to editors
The Blue Cross is Britain's pet charity, providing practical support, information and advice for pet and horse owners. Through its network of animal 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.

Photo of the girls wearing their snorkelling gear available on request.