The Great British Dog Walk at Yorkshire Sculpture Park (YSP) in Wakefield attracted record numbers this weekend as our dog-loving nation turned up in their hundreds to support Hearing Dogs for Deaf People in its 35th year.
Now firmly established as one of the UK’s favourite series of dog walks, 382 people and over 239 of their canine friends attended to enjoy a great day out for dog-lovers, families, couples, independent walkers and organised walking groups.
North East community fundraising manager, Eileen Botterill said: “With so many people and their dogs attending, the Great British Dog Walk at YSP was a massive success. We were thrilled with the level of support received from the local people and the perfect walking weather in such a beautiful location helped to make it a wonderful event!”
The effects of hearing loss can be devastating. The lack of independence, loss of confidence, reduced self-esteem and feelings of anxiety can lead to loneliness, isolation and often depression. Hearing Dogs transform their recipient’s lives by providing a special kind of independence and companionship, like Jenny and Xander from the Huddersfield area who enjoyed the walk on Sunday.
Jenny said: “Xander and I really enjoyed being involved with Great British Dog Walk on Sunday. It was really well organised and great to see so many people supporting a fantastic charity. I was able to really feel part of the charity not just as recipient but as valuable volunteer and fundraiser. Through Hearing Dogs I’ve made new friends and I enjoy being actively involved with raising awareness and fundraising. Xander enjoyed walking with the other dogs and he didn’t stop wagging his tail all day.”
The Great British Dog Walk at YSP provided a fun-filled day for recipients, volunteers and supporters to join forces and help raise funds for an incredible cause, which will mean that more Hearing Dogs can be paired with those who are in desperate need to become more confident in their daily lives.
Guy Laurie, Director of Operations at YSP, said: “The Great British Dog Walk is a fantastic event for a really worthwhile cause and we were really pleased to host it at YSP. It was the perfect opportunity for people to get outside, enjoy the fresh air and explore the local countryside – we’ve got over 500 acres of it with interesting and intriguing sculptures at YSP, so it wasn’t an average walk in the park!”
There is still time to sign up to a Great British Dog Walk near you. To see the full list of walks in 2017 visit: https://www.hearingdogs.org.
