Helmsley dog walk raises £3000 for Yorkshire Cancer Research

A volunteer group has raised more than £3000 for Yorkshire Cancer Research after hosting its popular annual dog walk.

The event, organised by the charity’s Helmsley Volunteer Group, was attended by 60 people and their furry friends.

Fiona Lovell, Chair of the group, said: “I think the event went wonderfully well. People of all ages came along. There was a lovely atmosphere with the dogs, fresh air, and catching up with friends.”

The hour-long walk took place at Beadlam Grange Farm in North Yorkshire and was guided by farm owner Mark Rooke.

The event was first held over a decade ago, when fellow volunteer Penny Avison held the walk on her farm. After she moved, Mark volunteered his farm to host the dog walk.

Fiona continued: “Mark lost his wife to cancer three years ago, so he is really committed to supporting cancer research.

“A lot of people either have had cancer themselves, have had a family member experience it, or have lost someone to cancer. It’s a cathartic experience to contribute to an event, and to feel that we’re all making a difference to this terrible disease.

“The event is so important in our community because it keeps cancer in everyone’s mind. It’s a great way of raising awareness of cancer symptoms, the importance of taking part in screening, and helps to get the important messages out there.”

The money raised from the event will help fund life-saving research in Yorkshire.