DOGS FOR the Disabled is hosting its second Frances hay Memorial Walk, at Warwick Racecourse on June 9 2002 and expects to have up to 250 people take part in what promises to be a very special and fun day out.

The sponsored walk, organised by the Warwickshire Supporter Group, will commence at 1pm and wind around a two-mile circuit at the picturesque Warwick racecourse.

The day will be a real family-fun day out with a free prize draw and doggy bag for every entrant, as well as face painting and a fancy dress competition for younger walkers. Dogs, of course, are welcome and if they still have some energy after the walk they can take part in the ‘Dog Dash’ - a short agility course with a prize for the fastest dog.

As well as raising money for the charity, the walk is to commemorate its founder, Frances Hay, who was left disabled by a crippling form of bone cancer and taught her own dog a German Shepherd call Kim to help with practical everyday tasks.

Sadly Frances died at the age of 41, but her work is carried on by Dogs for the disabled who have now trained over 230 dogs to help disabled people lead a more independent life.

Warwick Supporter Group co-ordinator and walk organiser is Sarah Carr; disabled herself she was partnered with Jade, a border collie/golden retriever cross four years ago. Jade helps her by picking up dropped items, taking laundry out of the washing machine, even helping Sarah take off her shoes and socks.

Both Sarah and Jade are looking forward to the event: “Jade helps me with so much and makes me feel confident enough to go out, without her I would probably never even have considered organising such an event, but now this is one way that we can help raise money to benefit more disabled people”.

If you would like to take part in what promises to be a great day out please contact Sarah Carr directly on 01926-774407