Hack Off Cancer

Photo: Katie Amos Photography

Hack off Cancer

Hack Off Cancer, the annual horse riding themed charity fundraiser at Watergrove Reservoir, returned for another successful year.

Organised by Kath and Andy O’Donnell, from Littleborough, the event saw 70 riders take part in the biggest event yet.

Many of the horse riders wore pink to show their support for cancer awareness, with some dressing in fancy dress to mark Halloween. Katie Mead and Lauren Pickles were awarded the ‘best dressed’ with Katie receiving a prize from Nags & Rags and Lauren receiving a prize from Katie Amos Photography.

Jackie Broadhurst said: “I had the most amazing ride in the beautiful sunshine. A fabulous team from car park monitoring, marshals, the ride organisers and so many more people - a huge thank you. I've met new friends and can't wait for the next one. A big surprise at the end of the ride was a large goodie bag, wow, now that sealed the day.”

Beth Hurdus said: “I would just like to thank you all for such a fantastic day. It was very well organised. I thoroughly enjoyed myself alongside my horse. Thank you so, so much.”

Diane Louis McInnes said: “Thank you Kath O'Donnell and everyone else who helped out, sponsored etc. for an absolutely fantastic day. The weather was beautiful, the views were amazing and apart from a sore bum, I loved it. Can't wait for the next one.”

The event was sponsored by Hird and Partners Veterinary Group with goodie bags courtesy of Naylors of Rochdale. Bags included goodies from Horse and More, who donated polo bandages as well as gifts from All Beauty, Faith in Nature, Enhance Your Life, Dengie, Dodson and Horrell, Allen and Page and Blue Chip.

Raffle prizes were courtesy of Nags and Rags, Westgate Equestrian, Gilbertson, Blaze Clothing, Carr & Day & Martin, Horseware Ireland, Global Herbs, Likit and Snuggyhoods. A special prize of a Weetherbeeta stable rug was donated by Naylors and Dublin Clothing.

Organiser Kath O’Donnell said: “Because it was a beautiful day, Watergrove Reservoir was extremely busy. Thank you to everyone for their patience and realising we had an event on for Cancer Research UK.

“We are extremely grateful to all who attended the event and made it what it was. Thank you to all of our helpers on the day - Graham and Linda Davy, Kath Woolfenden, Debbie Morris, Samantha Morris, Amy Morris, Yvette Smith, Paul Smith, Karen Pythian and Sophie Harbach.

“Also, thanks to United Utilities for letting us use their land.”