Pet Brands team runs to support colleague

The Pet Brands team is taking part in a half marathon run on Saturday 17^th April to raise funds for Creative Director Carl Farraker. The fund-raising event was prompted by Carl’s recent shock diagnosis of cancer with metastasis, meaning that palliative chemotherapy is now being given to help relieve his symptoms. His colleagues are now running to provide support for his family, including his three young daughters, allowing the family to spend their time together creating some special memories. Anyone who wishes to donate can do so at https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/runforcarl.

Bridgette Sturgeon is Group Head – National Key Accounts and has worked with Carl for the last three years. She will start and finish the run from the Pet Brand offices in Birstall 13.2 miles away, accompanied by several members of Pet Brands team who are spending Fridays practising and raising their fitness levels in preparation for the trek.

Bridgette and Beth training

Carl started his career with the group as an apprentice and 16 years later his skill, patience and easy-going personality have won him many friends in the workplace. Carl is being supported by the business during this difficult time, including a personal donation from the Pet Brand’s Board of Directors of £20,000 and his colleagues also felt they wanted to make a personal contribution. As well as the run, they have organised a raffle and bake sale.

Company staff and their families will be invited to join in the run for anything from a few steps to a few miles, taking all relevant COVID precautions. Vital Pet Group Directors, Sunny and Ravi Sharma will also be making an appearance dressed up as Toy Story characters, as chosen by Carl’s little girls.

Anyone who knows Carl can send a card or letter of support, to Pet Brand offices c/o Bridgette Sturgeon, Pet Brands, Paramount House, Gelderd Road, Birstall WF17 9QD. Donations are being collected at https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/runforcarl. To date just over £4000 has been raised and Carl and his family have been hugely appreciative of the wonderful messages of support they have received.