Best known for his roles in Flash Gordon, Star Wars and Much Ado About Nothing, more recently, Brian Blessed has also become known for his sense of adventure – he has climbed Everest on three separate occasions. It was his passion for exploring that brought him to Dogs for the Disabled and last month he pledged to take part in the charity’s overseas challenge, The Desert Walk.
Taking place in March 2008, Brian Blessed will join other participants in trekking through the challenging terrain of Jordan, starting at the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth and travelling to the famous Rose City of Petra. The trip will take a week to complete.
During a day spent at the charity’s training centre, Mr Blessed was able to view the special work that an assistance dog is trained to carry out. Using reward based training methods, each dog performs practical tasks that many of us take for granted, things like opening doors, fetching the post, helping to undress and even emptying the washing machine.
Mr Blessed commented: “Everyone has their own Everest to climb and the work carried out by Dogs for the Disabled helps disabled people to achieve their dreams. I have always loved animals and I understand how these very special dogs can quite literally change lives and help a disabled people to live life to the full.”
“As vice-patron of Dogs for the Disabled, I urge people to join me on this amazing trek to Jordan. Not only is this the challenge of a life-time, but you will be changing the lives of so many disabled adults and children who face a life-time of challenge.”
Brian Blessed joins Peter Purves, Wendy Richard MBE, Dr Roger Mugford and Anthea Turner as vice patrons and supporters of the charity’s work. Peter Gorbing, chief executive of Dogs for the Disabled said: “I am delighted to welcome Brian on board as a vice patron with his passion for life and, of course, animals I am sure he will be a great inspiration to everyone involved.”
For details of joining Brian Blessed on the Dogs for the Disabled Desert Walk, visit www.actionforcharity.com.
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