VOLUNTEERS at an animal welfare group are set to walk more than 1,000 miles with rescue dogs in a bid to raise cash following the coronavirus outbreak.
Royston Animal Welfare aim to walk the equivalent length of Britain - 1,083 miles from Land’s End in Cornwall to John O’Groats in Scotland - with all the money raised donated straight back into the local rescue.
Six volunteers have been walking a small part of the distance each day to reach their target, and have already walked more than half the distance.
Natalie Newfeld, co-ordinator at the Royston rescue, has said animals at the rescue are the main drive to keep pushing through.
She told the Chronicle: “The rescue usually does a sponsored walk in May, but unsurprisingly this had to be cancelled due to the outbreak.
“Instead, we thought it may be better to do this virtually and challenge ourselves to walk this massive distance.
“Alongside our amazing volunteers are Claire Denton and Mark Hempshall, who adopted lovely Sam from us and have supported us ever since.
“I can’t thank the volunteers enough for helping us reach the milestone and raise some money for the rescue.”
The fundraising group have walked more than 500 miles so far, with the remaining distance yet to complete.
“It’s been really good so far. I’m used to long walks with the rescue dogs so it’s something I’m comfortable with.
“But the volunteers are taking up their own time to walk as long as possible. I’m hopeful we’ll complete this soon.
“Although this isn’t our usual sponsored walk, I do hope that this will help us raise just as much for the rescue.
“It’s been tough, but I’m thankful for people’s support and donations so far. The animals will greatly appreciate the support.”
