Babworth Animal Rescue Kennels (BARK) is a long-established independent organisation devoted to keeping dogs and cats healthy, happy and safe while helping local people find their perfect forever companion.
For over 20 years, owners Elaine and Darren have been supported by hundreds of generous individuals, local businesses, charities, community groups, schools and colleges. Many of their adopting families continue to help long after taking their four-pawed friend home — they’re so grateful for the joy their pet brings that they just want to give something back. BARK relies entirely on donations and fundraising to keep its work going. With no external funding, every penny raised helps cover the never-ending running costs of the kennels. Wonderful volunteers play a huge part, giving their time to feed, walk, clean and comfort the animals — and many say how much they benefit in return, enjoying the company, outdoor activity and sense of purpose that comes with helping animals in need.
This time of year is especially important, as the Retford and Tuxford Christmas Markets are BARK’s biggest fundraising events of the year. Retford’s market is on Sunday 23rd November (10.00am to 6.00pm) and Tuxford’s is on Sunday 30th November (2.30pm to 6.00pm). Their famous BARK tombolas are always a highlight — fun, colourful and full of fantastic prizes — and they take an enormous amount of preparation.
Could you be part of the community of BARK supporters that make tails wag this Christmas? They need donations of good-quality tombola prizes such as cuddly toys, mugs, small toys, wrapped sweets or chocolates, bodycare treats, children’s books, plus bags or rolls of cellophane, ribbon, bows and wrapping paper. Perhaps you can organise a little collection point where you work or hang out?
Donations can be dropped off at the BARK Fundraising Shop, next to the Post Office on Eldon Street, Tuxford (Monday to Saturday, 9.00am to 4.00pm), or directly to BARK Kennels, Babworth Crossing, DN22 8HE (daily 9.00am to 3.00pm). Every donation makes a difference.
For more information see www.barkonline.co.uk or call 01777 708707. Please follow them on Facebook: BARK Fundraising Shop at Tuxford and Babworth Animal Rescue Kennels (BARK).