FIRST GRANTS AWARDED

Just months after it was launched, the Rail Dogs Benevolent Fund has awarded its first round of grants.

The Fund was established earlier this year to support dogs who have completed their service with British Transport Police (BTP). Since then generous donations have been received from organisations and individuals, and funds have been raised through the sale of merchandise.

The grants made this month will assist owners with the costs associated with caring for retired police dogs.

Guests at the National Rail Awards gave generously after being introduced to the police dogs of the future

Trustee, Adrian Hanstock said: “On behalf of all the trustees, I can’t give enough thanks to all who have contributed to the amazing success of the fund since we launched in the summer. Everyone who made donations, took part in the charity raffle at the National Rail Awards or bought items from the webshop has helped us establish the fund more successfully and faster than we ever hoped.

“We have now been able to make a number of awards to those who have taken care of our retired police dogs, which was exactly our ambition from the outset.

“Thank you once again to everyone who has helped us to look after those who in turn look after our wonderful police dogs.”

If you would like to support the fund it’s not too late to get your hands on a Rail Dogs Benevolent calendar, or one of our limited edition pin badges from our online shop.