Sgt Garry Botterill felt so inspired when he learnt about the charity Hounds for Heroes that he committed himself to running 26.2 miles in the South Downs Marathon - fulfilling a personal achievement and raising over £500 at the same time!

The charity provides specially trained assistance dogs to those injured in the line of duty from both the UK Armed Forces and emergency services.

Garry, who is based on the Local Support Team in Littlehampton, heard about the charity from his wife Martina and became interested. "I was looking for a challenge and thought that running the marathon would be a good way of combining the two," he said.
¬I was delighted to be able to give Alan the cheque. I'm so grateful to all my colleagues and friends who supported me¬
Recently, Garry presented a cheque for £529.50 to Allen Parton, Founder of Hounds for Heroes, who came to Chichester police station with his assistance dog EJ.

"It was a real pleasure to meet Alan and EJ," said Garry, who is already planning his next run. "My wife did a portrait of the EJ which she donated to the charity and I was delighted to be able to give Alan the cheque. I'm so grateful to all my colleagues and friends who supported me.

"I hope that by raising the money for Hounds for Heroes I can raise the profile of such an amazing charity within the police service and encourage others to take part in a charity event for them."

For further information, visit the website at www.houndsforheroes.com