Dogs overcome obstacles to raise money for children’s hospice

MUDDY mutts will be the stars of Bluebell Wood’s new fundraising event — an obstacle course for dogs.

Owners will guide their canine companions around a range of challenges like water, logs, hay bales, tunnels and ditches.

The Mucky Pups family event will raise cash for the North Anston children’s hospice when it takes place at Thoresby Park near Ollerton on October 2.

And the charity is expecting places to be taken up quickly, with the event being the only one of its kind in the region.

Border collie Graham has been chosen as the face of the event — and owner Emma Widdowson (30) says he will lap up the attention.

“He’s a lovely, friendly dog who loves everybody he meets," said Emma, a children’s nurse in Chesterfield. “Everyone is his best friend. For a cuddle or a fuss, he’s anyone’s!

“There’s no other local events quite like Mucky Pups so as soon as we saw the competition, we had to enter.

“I’ve seen the work that Bluebell Wood does and how it helps people going through such difficult times, so I thought what better way to support a local charity. The fact that I’m obsessed with my dog helps too.”

Mucky Pups will be suitable for all ages and fitness levels, with entrants receiving a free bandana.

Bluebell Wood events fundraiser Beth Cole said: “We absolutely love dogs at Bluebell Wood and we see first-hand how much love, joy and therapeutic support they give to the children and families in our care.

“So we really wanted to create an accessible event for all the whole family where our four-legged friends would take centre stage.

“Whether you want to give your pooch a day to remember or would just like to come and watch the muddy action unfold, we’d love for you to join us at the picturesque Thoresby Park.”

Book a place at www.bluebellwood.org/muckypups. Businesses can email Beth on [email protected] for event sponsorship opportunities.