Walking 100 Miles for Friendship, Rescue Dogs and Raystede

It's a challenge that will test them physically, but it's also one they've wanted to complete for a long time.

The pair first met while working together at The Body Shop more than 25 years ago. Although they came from very different sporting backgrounds, they connected through running and have spent years taking on marathons, ultra-marathons and endurance events together.

"We've always had something to aim for, and this challenge has been in the back of my mind for years" says Pete.

"It might be our last big challenge as we've put our bodies through quite a lot over the years!"

A personal reason for supporting Raystede

For Pete, choosing to fundraise for Raystede was an easy decision.

Several years ago, he adopted Ludo, a Romanian rescue dog who had experienced significant trauma and found it difficult to trust men.

After Pete's relationship ended, rehoming Ludo wasn't something he was prepared to consider. Instead, he changed jobs so he could work closer to home and spend more time helping Ludo settle into his new life.

Over time, their relationship grew stronger, and today Ludo is at the centre of Pete's life.

"I met someone from Raystede when the charity was fundraising in Arundel and started chatting to them about their animal welfare work," he explains. "Learning about Raystede's history and how it all began with one woman's determination to help animals really struck a chord with me."

For Pete, supporting Raystede is about giving something back to a charity whose values closely match his own.

A personal reason for supporting Raystede

For Pete, choosing to fundraise for Raystede was an easy decision.

Several years ago, he adopted Ludo, a Romanian rescue dog who had experienced significant trauma and found it difficult to trust men.

Over time, their relationship grew stronger, and today Ludo is at the centre of Pete's life.

For Pete, supporting Raystede is about giving something back to a charity whose values closely match his own.

A shared passion for animal welfare

Graham didn't need much persuading to join the challenge.

He and his partner also have a rescue dog, Harley, and animal welfare has always been important to them.

"We've supported animal charities for years," he says. "When Pete told me about Raystede and what the charity does, it felt like the right cause to support."

The pair also credit much of their fundraising spirit to their time at The Body Shop, where community action and supporting charitable causes were a big part of working life.

"It's something that's stayed with us, we've always believed in doing what we can to support causes that matter" says Graham. “We also saw similarities between the founder of The Body Shop, Dame Anita Roddick with Raystede’s own founder, Miss Raymonde-Hawkins. Both were women driven by strong ethical values and a desire to make a positive difference particularly for animals.”

Why take on a fundraising challenge?

Pete and Graham know that walking 100 miles won't be easy, but that's part of the appeal. Starting their trek in the cathedral city of Winchester on 6 September, the pair will make their way towards Eastbourne.

Aiming to complete the challenge in just four days, Graham and Pete will be traversing approx. 4150m of ascent and decent along the route.

"It's about having something to work towards. The challenge motivates you but knowing you're raising money for a cause you care about gives it real purpose" explains Pete.

They also want to encourage others to realise that fundraising doesn't have to mean walking 100 miles.

"There are so many ways people can help," says Graham. "You don't have to do something extreme. Just choose something that works for you."

Why take on a fundraising challenge?

Aiming to complete the challenge in just four days, Graham and Pete will be traversing approx. 4150m of ascent and decent along the route.

"It's about having something to work towards. The challenge motivates you but knowing you're raising money for a cause you care about gives it real purpose" explains Pete.

They also want to encourage others to realise that fundraising doesn't have to mean walking 100 miles.

"There are so many ways people can help," says Graham. "You don't have to do something extreme. Just choose something that works for you."

Every mile matters

Pete and Graham are hoping to raise £1,000 for Raystede as they make their way across the South Downs. If you’d like to sponsor Pete and Graham, click the button below to make a donation to their fundraising page.

Every donation will help Raystede continue caring for animals in need and supporting pet owners across Sussex.

Their challenge may cover 100 miles, but they hope it encourages others to think about taking on a challenge of their own.

If like Pete and Graham you have secured your own place in a sports event or want to undertake a challenge of your own, why not consider fundraising for the Raystede animals?