A volunteer fundraising team from Belfast has won a national award for its PDSA charity efforts.

Valerie Morrison (78) has led the volunteer group for over 12 years. Together they have helped raise thousands of pounds for PDSA - which provides free and reduced cost veterinary treatment to sick pets in need through its Pet Hospital on Antrim Road and Pet Clinic on Shore Road.

PDSA Fundraising Director, Nigel Spencer, presented the Belfast team with their award for Fundraising Group of the Year at the Belfast PDSA Pet Clinic yesterday evening (18 February). 

The accolade recognises Valerie and the team’s determination to go above-and-beyond for the charity, including organising their annual Bark in the Park fundraiser. The event, now in its 7thyear, is attended by up to 5,000 people. The group has raised a staggering £17,200 for the charity since 2015.

Nigel said: “PDSA couldn’t exist without our devoted volunteers, and Belfast’s dedicated team of fundraisers of have shown incredible commitment to the charity. 

“Every year they go to great lengths to organise PDSA’s Bark in the Park, and its success is a testament to all their hard work. Last year’s event raised £4,500 and was attended by thousands of local dog-lovers, so it was a fantastic achievement. 

“Valerie and the team’s passion and dedication to the charity is inspiring. They are great ambassadors for PDSA and we would like to say a huge well done for all of their efforts and congratulations on their Fundraising Group of the Year Award!”

Commenting on the group’s award, Valerie said: “We are all absolutely delighted to receive this award. A huge thank you must go to the volunteering group – known locally as the ‘Crazy Crafters’ – who have been such a fantastic asset to PDSA Bark in the Park! We really enjoy working towards this day and there are a great many laughs along the way. Its popularity means we’re already receiving lots of enquiries in the 2020 event! 

“PDSA Bark in the Park is a day full of fun. It brings together a large community of local people and their dogs, and raises awareness of the fantastic work PDSA does. This event is like good wine - it improves every year! We are always looking for more volunteers to get involved, so anyone interested should contact 0800 508 8323.”

If you’d like to support PDSA on their mission to help sick and injured pets, visit their website to finds ways that you can get involved in fundraising opportunities too: www.pdsa.org.uk/fundraising.