Ayr’s guinea pig rescue centre brings in piggies from far and wide – and in recognition of its hard work, people from as far afield as England are fundraising on its behalf.

Susan Walker, 53, from Sunderland, has completed the Great North Run and raised around £1,000 for the furballs, tucked away off of Hope Street.

Twenty-six years after her last attempt at the UK’s largest half-marathon, Susan completed it on September 12, raising £845 so far.

Cool and cloudy weather made for excellent running conditions and Susan completed the run in two hours, 16 minutes and 23 seconds.

“The atmosphere was amazing as well as emotional” said Susan. “So many people were running for charities close to their hearts.”

Susan has a special connection with Ayr’s Guinea Pig Rescue and Rehoming Centre.

Whilst on holiday in the town during August 2020 she visited the centre with her son Alexander. Alexander has autism and Susan says they have kept guinea pigs as a way to teach him to become more caring. They also make him happy and teach him responsibility.

The pair came away with two pigs, Beryl and Betsy, after their 2020 visit and returned again this year and rehomed two more girls, Ella and Hope.

Susan said: “I decided to raise money for Ayr‘s Guinea Pig Rescue and Rehoming Centre because firstly we adore guinea pigs and secondly because of all the wonderful work the centre does. They never turn any guinea pig away. I have rehomed four guinea pigs from this centre. It is a very special place.”

Staff at the rescue centre were keen to thank Susan, adding: “The family are just great. They come once a year to support us and have helped out whenever they come. It’s so generous of them. Over 100 unwanted pigs in the building at the moment so all help is very gratefully received.”

Susan added: “I am delighted to of raised money for this most fantastic, magical, happy and amazing centre. Everyone has been so kind with their donations and best wishes it really helped me to do my best on Sunday.

“It is always great to know that the world is full of kind and caring people and despite the financial challenges of Covid-19 people have dug deep and donated what they could.”

Money can still be donated to Susan’s JustGiving page at www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/susan-walker-great-north-run-2021?utm_term=MQKXYQEWK