Year-long efforts lead to thousands for Hospice

A chorus of woofs and plenty of wagging tails made sure a celebration to mark a year of fundraising was packed with fun.

Doodles Do Splashes n Dashes, a group of more than 400 dog owners from across Suffolk, Essex, Norfolk and Cambridge, have spent 2017 trying to raise as much as possible for the Hospice.

The owners, who all have dogs who are poodle-crosses, decided to combine their love for man’s best friend and their desire to fundraise for the charity with a number of dog-themed events.

Bex Randall, a member of the group’s admin team, said: “Each year we like to raise money whilst having fun for a charity and in 2017 St Nicholas Hospice has been our chosen charity.

“Members made both doggy and human treats to sell at our monthly events and we also created a delicious recipe book and calendar with all profits going to the charity.

“The Hospice was our chosen charity as it’s something that every member of our club can resonate with. The Hospice does amazing work for both the terminally ill and their relatives.”

At the party, which took place last month, it was announced everyone’s combined efforts had led to £2,211.02 being raised, however, since then that total has grown to £3,000.

The occasion, which took place at the Suffolk Canine Crèche, Martlesham Heath, was organised by Bex as well as Michelle Waterson and Jo Fisher, and saw 80 pooches and 160 humans, some of which wore fancy dress, take part in games like ‘musical sit’ and ‘pass the pawcel’.

There was also a raffle which featured prizes donated by local businesses.

Hospice events fundraiser, Charlie De-Moore, said: “I am so grateful to Bex, Michelle, Jo and the rest of the Doodles Do Splashes n Dashes team for their efforts over the last year.

“They have all been so enthusiastic with their fundraising, not only coming up with their own ideas, but supporting us at our Paws in the Park family dog show and helping raise awareness among the community too.”