Be honest, in the twelve years I’ve been writing Barlow’s Brief have I ever asked you for money?
I’ve conscientiously read your letters, messages and e-mails endeavouring wherever possible to air your grievances or promote your cause. (I hadn’t realised just how saint-like I’ve been.) Now it’s your turn.
Pinot Grigio is a rather palatable wine, I’m sure you’ll agree, but its consumption is not without risk. You may surface unscathed from one glass, your senses may dim slightly after two but beyond that lays folly.
T’was at a social gathering where, plied with such beverage, I did stupidly agree to run the Wilmslow Half Marathon. Armed with a flagon of this seductive elixir a crafty wench did harry me into pounding the pavements for Animal Support Volunteers.
These fearless ladies rescue distressed animals in all weathers day and night; ponies, cats, dogs plus anything else in need of loving care and attention. Compassion is their stock in trade but they need support. Food, accommodation, vets’ bills and equipment all cost money.
If I can humiliate myself over 13 miles through the streets of Wilmslow dressed in nought but the skimpiest of shorts to raise money for abandoned, injured and starving pets surely you can sponsor me.
Call it an investment for the next time you want me to rave and rant on your behalf. (Politicians putting their hand in their own pocket will be particularly welcome).
Trust me; Animal Support Volunteers isn’t some high profile international charity where no one knows precisely where the donations go.
This is real local hands on help (I’ve seen the scratch and bite marks to prove it). These ladies are passionate about helping animals in need and I’m absolutely confident that 100 per cent of your contributions will go directly to easing the pain of some distraught pet.
It may be your cat injured crossing the road or a neighbour’s dog distressed and disorientated trying to find its way home or some poor rejected animal no one wants.
Here’s how you can sponsor my run:
Send a cheque payable to Animal Support Volunteers to: Morley Green Club, Mobberley Road, Wilmslow SK9 5NT c/o Vic Barlow or donate on line at: www.charitygiving.co.uk/vicbarlow
