Fundraising Success Stories from the UK Gundog Community

The strength of the Gundog community extends far beyond the field. Across the UK, individuals involved in the sport are raising significant funds for charitable causes, united by shared values and a commitment to supporting others.

Sharon Dingle of Bellspaddle Gundogs has raised more than £50,000 through a variety of fundraising initiatives. Her most recent campaign supports Keeping Abreast UK, a charity that assists women considering or undergoing reconstructive surgery following a cancer diagnosis. In partnership with Gamekeepers Goods, Sharon introduced a creatively redesigned pink training dummy, an initiative that has already raised £2,000 – far surpassing initial expectations.

Samantha Boyle and her husband Declan were motivated to act following the loss of their close friend Tony Rodgers to mesothelioma, a cancer caused by asbestos exposure. At the request of Tony’s family, they mobilised the Gundog community through online auctions, working test entries, raffles and general donations, collectively raising £26,000 to support preventative efforts. In 2025, they also raised more than £16,000 for Marie Curie UK.

Using Gundog Platforms to Support National Charities

In Lancashire, John Lupton has organised four fundraising events inspired by a family member’s battle with dementia. Over the years, these events have raised £23,000 – a testament to both his commitment and the consistent support of the community.

Similarly, Diana Stevens of Wylanbriar Gundogs in West Sussex has raised £14,500 for charitable organisations including The Alzheimer’s Society. Her work reflects a wider ethos within the Gundog world: using personal platforms and networks to support causes that affect countless individuals and families.

Collectively, these four individuals alone have raised more than £130,000- a remarkable achievement and only a fraction of the charitable activity taking place within the wider Gundog community.

The True Spirit of the Gundog Community

As Samantha Boyle reflects, it is often moments of personal loss that bring people together. Yet if the funds raised can make a difference to even one person or family, the Gundog community will continue to organise events, support worthy causes and stand together when it counts.

This ongoing commitment to compassion and action captures the true spirit of the Gundog fraternity.