Cyclists raise vital funds for assistance dog charity

CYCLISTS put on their helmets and jumped on their bikes to cycle up to 52 miles for this year’s Pedal for Paws South event.

The cycling event took place across the stunning South Downs on Sunday 30 September to raise vital funds for assistance dog charity Canine Partners.

The charity trains amazing assistance dogs to transform the lives of people living with disabilities across the UK, boosting their confidence and independence.

The dogs are taught a range of everyday tasks including picking up and retrieving items, opening doors and undressing a person. They can even help to load and unload a washing machine and they can fetch help in an emergency.

Over 50 cyclists took part in the event and although the funds raised are still being counted, Helen Watkinson, Head of Community and National Fundraising, hopes the challenge will have raised £5,000, enough to purchase and train a puppy.

“Events like Pedal for Paws are so important for us to raise funds and awareness of Canine Partners in the area surrounding our Southern Training Centre near Midhurst, West Sussex,” says Helen.

“Existing and new supporters are able to take part in the exciting challenge and experience the incredible views of the South Downs while raising vital funds for the charity.”

SAP UK Ltd, a corporate supporter of Canine Partners, took the cycling event as an opportunity to put together their own team of 18 people of all ages and capabilities.

“After running a half marathon earlier this year and personally raising £890 I decided my next challenge would be to get my fellow SAP UK Ltd colleagues to join a team to raise more awareness and money for Canine Partners,” says Amanda Gardiner, Pre Sales Manager at SAP UK Ltd.

“It’s a great chance to build team relationships.”

If you would like to take part in a challenge and raise vital funds for Canine Partners, please visit caninepartners.org.uk/challenges/