Time is running out to book a place to experience an ‘at sea’ water rescue by a four-legged 14-stone furry hero on Saturday 8th June at Portishead Marina, in aid of the RUH in Bath.

Pete Grimes, with a Newfoundland dog
The event is a once in a lifetime opportunity to experience what it is like to be rescued by a Newfoundland dog.
It costs just £30 to register and participants are asked to raise a minimum of £100 for any ward or department at the RUH that’s close to your heart.
The event has been organised with Newfound Friends for The Forever Friends Appeal, the fundraising charity of the RUH.
Laura Pearce, Events and Community Officer, The Forever Friends Appeal said: “This is a fundraising event with a difference and we are so delighted to be working be with these life- saving dogs again as it was such a big hit with those who took the plunge last year.
“We only have a set number of places left, so avoid missing out on this fun experience and sign up on our website.
“On the day, you will get the full experience of what it’s like to be rescued by a Newfoundland dog. They are powerful dogs, each weighing around 14 stone, and are an impressive sight in the water.
“Once you’re suited up, ready for the water, you’ll be taken out into the marina and be asked to jump in, but don’t worry, your furry rescuer won’t be far behind and will tow you back safely.”
“Last year, almost £7,000 was raised for the RUH – an amazing total and as participants can choose which area of the hospital their sponsorship would support, we saw donations going towards our major campaigns such as the new Dyson Cancer Centre and RNHRD and Brownsword Therapies Centre, as well as our Special Appeals such as Facial Surgery and Critical Care and other departments in the hospital, which is fantastic.”
Pete Grimes, aged 43, from Bath has signed up to take one giant splash for patients. He said: “I’m taking part in this event as I have been looking for a challenge with a difference, something that will take me out of my comfort zone and this is definitely it.
“I’ve not been in the water for years, but I’ve seen some of these Newfoundland dogs in action, so I’m pretty confident that they will do a fabulous job on the day and rescue us.
“My reason for taking part in this challenge is because I want to give something back to the RUH, for all the help they’ve given me over the past few years.
“Without them we couldn’t have got through losing some close family members on both my wife’s and my side of the family. Therefore I wanted to fundraise for their charity, The Forever Friends Appeal to help make a difference to other people and their families.”