A pet loving Darlington resident has been named a 2023 Petplan and ADCH Animal Charity Awards finalist in the category Charity Volunteer of the Year

Dog’s Trust volunteer Ailsa Sly is in contention for the award, which is an annual celebration of the incredible work carried out by animal charities and not-for-profit organisations across the UK, Ireland and Channel Islands, in partnership with Association of Dogs and Cat Homes (ADCH).

From animal rescue to rehoming, the awards are an opportunity to recognise the achievements of those who dedicate their time to support animal welfare, and cover three categories including Volunteer of the Year, Team of the Year and Employee of the Year.

This year’s awards will be held on Tuesday, May 16 at The International Conference Centre in Telford where the finalists will enjoy a celebratory dinner and an evening of entertainment before the winners in each category are announced.

Ailsa said: "It was big shock and very overwhelming at first. Now that it has sunk in, I feel very proud to be nominated by such an amazing charity and thoroughly enjoy giving up my free time to support the hard working team there.

"I have been a volunteer for 8 years, and over the years have done nearly every job description a volunteer can do, from kennel duties, admin, home checks, socialising puppies - too many to mention!

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"Any task, however big or small, I’ll do to help and support the dedicated team, working towards the ultimate goal of giving these furry babies a second chance. There’s nothing more rewarding than hearing one of the dogs has succeeded and found their forever home "

Petplan's sales and marketing director, Bella von Mesterhazy, added: “Through our partnership with over 1,200 animal charities we see every day the difference teams and individuals make to the lives of animals. 

"The Petplan & ADCH Animal Charity Awards are a time to show our appreciation and give these remarkable finalists  the recognition they deserve.”