Andrew Butchart gets Scottish SPCA Pound for Paws event off to a flying start

Olympic athlete and animal lover Andrew Butchart got the second annual Scottish SPCA Pound for Paws event off to a flying start by taking to the track against one of his four-legged competitors.

The track and field athlete, who has trained alongside Mo Farrah and captained Team GB at the recent World Championships in London, is lending his support and is asking people to walk, jog, run or pedal a distance of their choice throughout the month of September to raise much needed funds for the animals in the Edinburgh and Lothian area.

Edinburgh Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre Manager Diane Aitchison said, “We are delighted to have Andrew’s support.

“It’s a great opportunity for all ages and abilities to get out and about in their local communities, all while raising vital funds.

“This event is unique – there’s no minimum sponsorship or specific distance, all we ask is that anyone involved raises as much as they can and has fun while taking part! There’s only a £5 registration fee which covers the cost of a fundraising pack and t-shirt.

“We don’t receive any government or lottery funding which means we rely on the public to be able to continue our work rescuing and rehoming animals in desperate need of our help.

“Anyone who sets themselves the challenge of taking part in this event really will be helping save lives. And as an added bonus – by the end of the month you’ll be feeling fitter!”

Participants can choose to walk, jog, run or pedal a distance of their choice throughout the month of September to raise much needed funds for the abused, abandoned and injured animals across Scotland.

For more information on Pound for Paws and to receive your fundraising pack please visit email fundraising@scottishspca.org or call fundraising on 03000 999 999 (option 4).