Superstar sniffs out Christmas winner

27/12/2007

This year, Christmas was brightened by a special star, in the form of a lovable German Shepherd, who eagerly sniffed four winning tickets in The Blue Cross Paw Draw, held last Thursday at the charity's animal adoption centre in Burford. 

Star, a rescue dog currently looking for a new home, picked out the winning tickets from over 130,000 entries.  Mr Tomlin from London claimed the £5,000 jackpot, while other winners took home prizes of £1,000, £500 and £250.  All proceeds will go towards helping the thousands of sick and homeless animals cared for by The Blue Cross every year.

Commenting on his big win, Mr Tomlin said: I was overwhelmed when I heard I'd won. The news came very much out of the blue, but it's a wonderful surprise and perfect timing for Christmas. I don't have any pets myself, but I have been a supporter of The Blue Cross for a number of years."

Blue Cross head of trading, Jonathan Chambers said: Thanks to everyone who took part in the Paw Draw, we have raised £160,000 through both raffle ticket sales and donations. This is a fantastic achievement and will enable The Blue Cross to carry on its vital work finding new homes for animals in need, and providing veterinary care for the pets of people on low incomes who can't afford vets' fees.

If you think you could help Star shine even brighter by offering him a secure and loving home, please call the Burford adoption centre on 01993 822483 or visit Shilton Road, Burford, Oxon, OX18 4PF.

ENDS

Notes to Editors

• An image of Star sniffing out the winning tickets in The Blue Cross Annual Paw Draw 2007 is available contact the press office on 0207 932 4060
• 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.  For more information, please visit www.bluecross.org.uk.
• Burford animal adoption centre opened in 1990, and serves the counties of Oxfordshire, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, Warwickshire, and Northamptonshire. There are facilities for up to 60 dogs and puppies, 48 cats and kittens, seven pairs of rabbits, and six guinea pigs. Hundreds of animals are successfully rehomed every year.
• To contact the centre call 01993 822483. Opening hours: Monday Wednesday & Friday Sunday & Bank Holidays: 10am 3pm. Closed on Thursdays.

Media contact

Ziela Haider, press officer, 020 7932 4063/07860 519716 or ziela.haider@bluecross.org.uk