Big turnout for Horsham’s ‘Bark in the Park’

More than 200 pooches and walkers came to Chesworth Farm yesterday (Sunday June 1) to enjoy the fresh air and raise vital funds.

The hospice is hoping to raise more than £2,000 from this event, which will help the charity to provide free, vital hospice care for local people with a terminal illness.

The first walkers arrived at 10am with much tail-wagging and excitement, before taking the 3km route at a comfortable pace to enjoy the Horsham countryside and let the dogs explore.

On completing the course, every dog was rewarded with an exclusive bone-shaped medal, a drink, and the opportunity to win doggy prizes in a themed raffle, while owners enjoyed ‘great Danish’ pastries.

Gabi Field, community fundraiser at St Catherine’s Hospice, said: “We are really pleased with the success of this event. “Every pound that we raised is going to make a huge difference to local people with a terminal illness and we could see dogs and walkers alike having a fantastic time.

“Thank you again to Horsham District council for the beautiful walking route and to Maltman Cosham Veterinary Clinic for sponsoring Bark in the Park again this year.”

Mark Maltman, co-owner of Maltman Cosham Veterinary Clinic, sponsors of Bark in the Park, said: “We couldn’t be happier to sponsor Bark in the Park again this year. We know first-hand the important care and support that St Catherine’s provides for local people when they need it most.

“To keep providing this care, we understand they must raise a staggering £15,000 every day and the opportunity to help raise those funds, while enjoying the fresh air and treating our four-legged friends to a well deserved walk, is one we just couldn’t pass up.”

St Catherine’s Hospice provides end of life care and support to terminally ill people and their families across Crawley, Horsham, East Surrey and Mid Sussex.

For more information visit St Catherine’s website.