Keep on running for pet charity

The Blue Cross, Britain's pet charity, is inviting sporty animal lovers to put on their running shoes and hit the road to help raise funds for the animals in its care, by taking part in a running event this year.

The charity is inviting those that have already secured a place for this year's Flora London Marathon on 23 April to run in aid of The Blue Cross and support its invaluable work caring for needy animals and helping pet owners that can't afford private vets' fees.  

The Blue Cross also has a number of guaranteed places on offer to animal lovers for the fourth Edinburgh Marathon, which takes place on 11 June 2006. The Edinburgh Marathon is a real challenge with a spectacularly scenic route, which takes runners past many of the city's famous landmarks and tourist attractions.

Coming up later in the year is the largest women only running event in the UK, the Hydro Active Women's Challenge, which takes place in three cities - London, Birmingham and Liverpool - on 3 September. Women runners that join the Blue Cross team will be sent a running pack and a running vest or t-shirt.

Hot on the heels of the women's challenge is the BUPA Great North Run on October 1, which is the largest half-marathon in the world. Standard places fill up well ahead of the entry deadline, but The Blue Cross has guaranteed race entries available. In return runners are asked to raise a minimum sponsorship of £300.

Whether supporters run seriously or for fun,The Blue Cross hopes that these events will appeal to animal lovers of all fitness levels. Anyone interested in taking part can contact Heather Collin at The Blue Cross on 01993 825567 or by emailing events@bluecross.org.uk

Media contact: Sam Cordwell
Direct line: 020 7932 4063
Mobile: 07860 519716

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.