‘The Birds are Back’ won the shoot
The annual Canine Partners charity shoot enjoyed its best year ever, with a record turnout of 40 teams, raising £45,000 to help train assistance dogs for people with disabilities.
The shoot, now in its 11th year, was hosted at Holywell House in Swanmore, Hampshire on 18 September by the Earl and Countess of Clarendon, with guests including the charity’s patron, the Duke of Gloucester, and Olympic gold medalist Peter Wilson.
The clay shooting competition was won by ‘The Birds are Back’ team, comprising James Bird, Des Sturgess, Rob Smallman and Jack Smallman. The day also included a three course lunch and charity auction.
Jo Hill and her canine partner, Derby
“It was excellent to see a record number of teams enjoying the event in such a stunning setting,” said Andy Cook, CEO of Canine Partners. “We are delighted to have raised £45,000 from the clay shoot. The money raised will enable the charity to train more assistance dogs and in turn transform the lives of more people with disabilities.”
Wheelchair user Jo Hill made a speech on the day, emphasising the importance of her assistance dog, Derby: “The difference that Derby has made to my life, and that of my family, is almost impossible to encapsulate in words and is certainly unquantifiable.”
For more about Canine Partners, call 08456 580480 or visit www.caninepartners.org.uk.
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