On Sunday 23^rd June, Yorkshire based children’s cancer charity Candlelighters took over the Riverside Gardens in Ilkley for a day of fun including a 2.5km sponsored dog walk around the beautiful sights of the River Wharfe! It was a barking success, with over 30 dogs signing up ahead of the day and 20 more coming along to join in on the walk.

With a great selection of stall holders from the local community ranging from baked goods to dog treats and everything in between, there was plenty to entertain alongside the dog show! We found the most Fabulous Fella and the Loveliest Lady, the Golden Oldie and the Best Rescue, the Best Junior Handler and it was topped off by our Waggiest Tail Winner Jasmine!

Jasmine is an 11 month old Cavapoo owned by Amelia, an 8 year old girl who has been supported by Candlelighters throughout her journey with Leukaemia. Amelia finished her treatment for Leukaemia in January and although still has some mobility issues, walking Jasmine has really helped her regain her fitness. The 2.5km sponsored walk around the River Wharfe was Amelia’s furthest walk since she stopped using her walking frame which is an absolutely fantastic achievement! Both Amelia and Jasmine were a huge part of the day and as well as winning the ‘Waggiest Tail’ category in our dog show, they raised an amazing £223 for the sponsored walk! This brings the total raised to over £1100 and counting!

“We just wanted to say thank you to Candlelighters and their event Doggy Day Out, we all really enjoyed it and Amelia had a super day! We hope it was a good money raiser for you and we’re very proud of Amelia and Jasmine who raised £223 for the sponsored walk!” Sally, Amelia’s Mum.

Each year, around 150 families lives are changed when their child is diagnosed with cancer. Candlelighters supports those affected by childhood cancer by offering practical and financial support as well as funding additional staff time on the wards, therapies, support groups and funding research. At present 658 families in the Leeds area have had the support from Candlelighters including an additional 29 families in Ilkley alone, as well as families branching far and wide across North, East, West and parts of South Yorkshire.