Saddle up for a fundraising experience of a lifetime

The Blue Cross, Britain's pet charity, is offering animal-loving adventurers the unforgettable experience of horse trekking through the Andes of Ecuador, in aid of the charity's work caring for needy horses and small animals.

Accompanied by skilled local horsemen and bilingual guides, participants will ride across vast grassy plains and remote areas between snow-capped volcanoes, with every chance of spotting the magnificent Andean condor soaring overhead.

The trek starts along the Avenue of Volcanoes and continues through the Cotopaxi National Park with its unique lunar landscape. The ride promises varied terrain and pace, from cantering across the open plains accompanied by wild horses to ascending steep, rocky mountain trails.

Heather Collin, events coordinator at The Blue Cross said: This is an exciting opportunity for confident riders who want to help horses and small animals in need whilst on a trip of a lifetime. As a charity, we are dependent on our supporters and fundraisers who are willing to rise to challenges like this.

The Blue Cross is one of Britain's oldest animal welfare charities and relies entirely on donations to fund its valuable work. Participants of this trek will be asked to pledge a minimum amount of sponsorship.  To find out more about the Ecuador trek, which takes place 6 14 September 2007, please call Tracey Chittock or Heather Collin on 01993 825557 or email events@bluecross.org.uk.

Media contact: Sam Cordwell
Direct line: 0207 932 4063
Mobile: 07860 716519

Notes to editors
The Blue Cross is Britain's pet charity, providing practical support, information and advice for pet and horse owners. Through its network of animal adoption centres, it rehomes thousands of animals each year. Its hospitals provide veterinary care for the pets of people who cannot afford private vets' fees.