Animal lovers across Norfolk and Suffolk are being urged to show their support for this year's Wetnose Day.
Organised by Wetnose Animal Aid, a charity based in Kirby Cane near Bungay, the national event raises much-needed funds for the thousands of sick and neglected animals living in rescue shelters.
This year it is being staged on Friday, September 29, with fundraising events expected to continue over the weekend until October 1.
People are being asked to buy and wear a black foam nose and pose with a nose, as well as holding their own fundraisng events.
One event being staged locally is a sponsored swim on September 30 at Broadland Sports Club in Fleggburgh, from 5.30pm to 7.30pm. Certificates and trophies will be awarded and everyone is welcome to enter. For more information call Amanda Spooner on 01493 740470. The closing date for entries is September 22.
The Wetnose Day launch event was held in London in June attended by celebrities including host Wendy Turner Webster, actor and animal campaigner Peter Egan, actress Lorraine Chase, Vicki Michelle MBE and Debbie Douglas from The Only Way Is Essex.
Wetnose Animal Aid was established in 2000 by Andrea Gamby-Boulger and her late husband Gavin to care for stray and sick animals at their rescue centre and in 2014 they launched National Wetnose Day in a bid to raise funds for smaller animal shelters across the UK.
Mrs Gamby-Boulger said: 'Wetnose Day is a real chance to give sick, abused animals and wildlife a proper voice, to remind people to 'think rescue' rather than buying a puppy from a breeder or over the internet.
'As part of the event we can raise the profile of the amazing pets that come into rescue who have so much love and fun to bring to caring new owners. This day will help educate children about the importance of having rescue centres and to look after our pets sensibly and with care.'
Mrs Gamby-Boulger is also appealing for new volunteers to help out at the Wetnose Animal Aid shop in Beccles. Anyone who can offer up their time is asked to contact her on 01508 518650.
Noses are available to order online at www.wetnoseanimalaid.com where fundraising packs can also be downloaded.
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