Exeter paws for thought this May

Hundreds of animal lovers will take to the paths of Heavitree on Sunday 5 May as Exeter joins over 40 UK locations in The Big Walk, a nationwide charity event supporting the Cinnamon Trust.

The event, which begins at 11am at Park Life Heavitree Café, invites dog owners, walkers, families and animal lovers to come together and walk in solidarity with the UK’s only charity dedicated to supporting older people, the terminally ill, and their beloved pets.

Now in its 40th year, The Cinnamon Trust provides crucial help for those who are struggling to care for their animals due to age or ill health - from dog walking and cat feeding, to long-term fostering and pet transport.

This year’s Big Walk is extra special as the charity celebrates its 40th anniversary. The Exeter event will be one of the key fixtures in the nationwide celebration, with walkers from Cornwall to Norfolk uniting under a common cause.

"The Big Walk is more than just a charity event," says a spokesperson from the Cinnamon Trust. "It's a celebration of the love and loyalty that pets bring to our lives - and of the people who step in to help when that bond is at risk."

Walkers are encouraged to register online and are welcome to bring their dogs, friends and family along. You don’t need a pet to take part - just a pair of comfy shoes and a passion for helping others.

Funds raised from The Big Walk will go directly towards supporting the Cinnamon Trust’s work in the South West and across the UK.