A DEVON couple have been recognised for their long-running fundraising in support of Margaret Green Animal Rescue — in particular, the Wingletang Rehoming Centre near Tavistock.

Richard and Hilary Evans have been avid supporters of the Margaret Green Animal Rescue Centres (MGAR) for more than 12 years — having raised more than £35,000 for the charity in that time. Their dedication to raising funds for the charity has seen them car booting each weekend in Plymouth, which involves getting up at 5am just to make sure they get a good pitch at the event.

Their enthusiasm doesn’t end there — they also help to raise funds by arranging music nights and pub quizzes, including a recent Christmas evening. During their time as supporters they have also re-homed more than 19 animals.

To recognise this devotion to MGAR, the charity contacted Room to Reward, where hidden heroes within registered charities can be offered the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing and deserving short break away.

When MGAR told Room to Reward all about Richard and Hilary, they were recognised as deserving recipients of a weekend away to thank them.

Richard and Hilary said: ‘We love to do our bit for MGAR and all the animals. When we go to the car boot, the other stall holders often have to look twice — as well as always being really busy, we have supporters bring donations in to sell as well as buy from us. We were so happy when we found out about the award. We do it for the animals and not the recognition, but it was very much appreciated.’

A spokesperson for Room to Reward said: ‘We ask charities to let us know about those supporters who quietly make a real difference to the charities they are volunteering for and when we heard about Richard and Hilary, it was clear they really match our criteria and we were thrilled to be able to offer the break to them.’

Niki and Alan Ging, who are joint centre managers at Wingletang, were full of praise for Richard and Hilary. They said: ‘We couldn’t do all the wonderful things our centres achieve for our pets without volunteers, either raising much needed donations or helping with the animals and events — all of it is so important to the work we do. We were thrilled to be able to nominate Richard and Hilary, we hope they have a wonderful break, they deserve it.’

For more information about the charity, visit www.margaretgreenanimalrescue.org.uk