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Vet to cycle across South America for cat charity
“Although I’m a keen cyclist, I’ve never done anything like this before, but I’m really looking forward to it” – David Hodges.
David Hodges will cover more than 1,000 miles in nine days.

A veterinary surgeon is preparing to cycle 1,060 miles across South America to raise money for a local cat charity.

David Hodges, from the independent practice Stellar Vets in Littlehampton, West Sussex, will start his journey on the Pacific coast of Chile in the second week of January.

His route will take him over the Andes mountain range and across the continent to Buenos Aires on the east coast of Argentina in just nine days.

A GoFundMe page has been set up, with the aim of raising £5,000 for Worthing Cat Welfare. The charity cares for abandoned and unwanted cats in the local area, including arranging veterinary care and finding the cats new homes.

Dr Hodges said: “The idea for this ride came about after a conversation with some friends from university who all enjoy a challenge and wanted to raise money for various charities and good causes.

“Although I’m a keen cyclist, I’ve never done anything like this before, but I’m really looking forward to it. I’m currently training hard and covering at least 60 miles every Saturday and Sunday, as well as around 40 miles every evening, in preparation for cycling more than 100 miles each day during the ride.”

Allison Pyett, from Worthing Cat Welfare, said: “When David told us about this latest fundraising challenge, we couldn’t believe it. It’s extraordinary, and especially because every penny makes a difference, so it has the potential to help the cats we care for even more.”

Image © David Hodges

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Cold-water dip to raise funds for Vetlife

News Story 1
 The veterinary mental health charity Vetlife is inviting the veterinary community to join it for a sponsored cold-water dip.

The event will take place at Walpole Bay, Margate, on 17 May during Mental Health Awareness Week. Participants of all abilities can join in the challenge and are advised to bring a towel, a hot drink, a snack, and warm clothes to get changed into afterwards.

Those taking part are being asked to try to raise £100 each to support the work of the charity.

Details about how to take part can be found here. 

Click here for more...
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