Zoo team swap meerkats for mountains in aid of pet rescue centre
A team including zookeepers from Hoo Zoo and Dinosaur World have successfully completed the ‘Three Peaks Challenge’, raising vital funds for local animal rescue charity, Pepper's Pet Rescue and smashing their original fundraising target in the process.
Watch more of our videos on ShotsTV.com
and on Freeview 262 or Freely 565
The determined team completed the gruelling challenge in an impressive 23 hours and 56 minutes, scaling the highest peaks in Scotland, England, and Wales - Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, and Snowdon, within the demanding 24-hour window.
The team, which took on the challenge in April, included Malcolm Dawes, Lee Trumper, Toby Hayward, George Hayward, Marcus Allen, James Wilkins, and the zoo’s owner, Will Dorrell.
Funds raised will go directly to Pepper's Pet Rescue, a local rescue centre known for its dedication to caring for abandoned and neglected cats across the West Midlands. The Hoo Zoo team took on the challenge not only to support the charity financially but also to raise awareness about the importance of animal welfare.
“We’re absolutely thrilled to have completed the challenge, and just within the time limit, I was a little bit nervous at the end” said Hoo Zoo and Dinosaur World owner, Will Dorrell. “The entire team put in months of preparation, all while keeping up with their physically demanding work at the zoo. The experience was tough but incredibly rewarding, and we’re proud to have done it for such an important cause.”
“Smashing our fundraising target has been the icing on the cake,” he continued. “But donations are still coming in, and we’re encouraging anyone who hasn’t donated yet to get involved – it’s a fantastic cause that really needs the support.”
Hoo Zoo has supported Pepper’s Pet Rescue for several years, having adopted animals from the centre including several cats and Giant African Land Snails. The rescue is currently under significant pressure from mounting veterinary bills and is seeking funds to either purchase or rent a new facility to expand its capacity.
Sophie Pepper, founder of the rescue, said: “We’re so grateful to the Hoo Zoo team, what they’ve done is incredible. We’re blown away by the support and the exposure they’ve helped bring to our cause. Every donation helps us care for more animals and get closer to a much-needed new facility.”
The team initially hoped to raise £1,500 but have already surpassed that goal, with donations still open via their dedicated JustGiving page: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/hoozoothreepeaks?
