UK vets cover thousands of miles in charity challenge

A group of equine, farm and small animal veterinary practices have raised more than £35,000 for charity in a UK-wide trek.

The 53 members of XLVets travelled 34,727 miles — about 10k more than Earth’s circumference — to complete the one-day challenge by running, kayaking, swimming, cycling and walking around the UK in the summer.

Alex Cooper of Fenton Vets in Pembrokeshire raised the most money with a total of £1,966. The practice also travelled the furthest distance, clocking up 4,516 miles.

The individual practice to raise the most money was Ardene House Vet Practice with a sum of £3,212.

“The day took some co-ordinating with a horsebox carrying bikes and kayaks,” said Alex Cooper at Fenton Vets. “However, the enthusiasm among the team meant it became the talking point within the practice for weeks.

“We have already decided it will become an annual event with invites extended to clients as well as all XLVets member practices.”

The money raised was split between member practices’ local chosen charities and Send a Cow, which will receive a cheque for £15,571.

Organiser Jane Simpson said the generosity of all those that have supported the challenge “will make a real difference to the charities”.

She said the amount raised was “a great achievement” and she was sure “that the competitive nature of all our members will mean that our fundraising efforts will not stop here.”

XLVets comprises 53 vet independently owned vet practices who all share knowledge and experience.

Founded by UK farmers at the height of the milk crisis in 1988 Send A Cow is a development charity providing training and farming skills to poor families in Africa.

“This donation ensures hundreds of people have food security and the knowledge to future-proof their families for generations to come. It is a special gift and we really appreciate it,” said Sophie Porfirio, corporate partnerships manager for Send a Cow.

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