Sussex Walkers invited to charity welly walk at Bodiam Castle

Hearing Dogs for Deaf People is inviting Sussex dog lovers and walkers to join the charity’s Bodiam Castle Welly Walk on Saturday, 6 December - and help raise funds to help change the lives of people with deafness or hearing loss at the same time.

Starting at 11:30am, the Welly Walk will take participants on a scenic stroll around Bodiam Castle grounds, offering a great chance to get outdoors, enjoy the fresh air, and meet other local walkers – with or without a dog.

The main route for the walk is approximately 5km and offers beautiful countryside views. There is also a 3km route for anyone who would prefer a slightly shorter walk.

Everyone coming along will be given a Hearing Dogs goody bag - and treats for the dogs too! After the walk, participants can look forward to fun activities and the opportunity to learn more about Hearing Dogs for Deaf People’s work. With a maximum of 30 spots available, early booking is encouraged.

“Events like the Welly Walk are a great way to bring our community together - people, pups, and all while supporting Hearing Dogs’ mission of helping people live better with hearing loss,” said Rachel Annett, Community Fundraising Manager for Hearing Dogs in the Southeast.

People taking part in the walk with be helping to change the life of someone like Jill Knowles from Northiam. Jill was partnered with her first hearing dog Lola in 2005 after a bout of viral meningitis resulted in her losing her hearing altogether.

“I was working as an accountant in London at the time, but my hearing loss made communication with colleagues so difficult, I had to leave”, explained Jill. “I became withdrawn and despondent.

“After being partnered with my first hearing dog Lola, I began working as a children’s counsellor in schools. Lola was a wonderful asset; she loved the children and they adored her.  She gave me confidence, not only to be at home on my own, but also to venture out into the world as a person with hearing loss.

“I am retired now and although a very different character to Lola, Jessie, my second hearing dog is just as much of an asset in my life. While I’m quite shy, Jessie is very sociable and gives me much more confidence in going out and about. I don’t have to explain to people anymore that I can’t hear, because they understand when they see her burgundy Hearing Dogs jacket.”

Tickets for the Welly Walk are £10 for adults. Children under 16 and dogs go free. The charity asks anyone coming along to keep their dog on a lead. Tickets are available by visiting: wellywalkatbodiam.eventbrite.co.uk