Features / newfound friends
Newfound Friends founder recognised for making the UK a better place
The Independent‘s Happy List acknowledges people that give rather than take and one of the people recognised in 2019 is David Pugh, founder of Newfound Friends Charity.
Launched by David in 1989, the charity raises money for children’s charities by using the skills of specially trained Newfoundland dogs.
The dogs can be sponsored and ‘rescued’ at training days and are also used for hospice and hospital visits, supporting to children receiving care.
is needed now More than ever
One of the dogs performing a rescue jump. The dogs are well known for their annual appearances at the Harbour Festival
Laura Pearce, from The Forever Friends Appeal, made nominated David after the charity organised three rescue events for them, which have helped to raise more than £17,000.
With the support of his close friends and a dedicated group of Newfoundland owners, David and his team have raised over £1.4 million for 47 different organisations.
“David is truly an inspiration to work with,” says Laura. “The money raised has helped fund medical equipment, facilities and research above and beyond what standard NHS funding can afford. He undoubtedly makes the world a better place for many people.”
David Pugh and one of his dogs, accepting one of many awards the dogs have received for their work
David, who is 64, says: “The nomination is a big surprise. It’s usually the dogs who win the awards, not the people behind them.
“It’s really kind of Laura to nominate me. To think there are 66 million people in the country, and I’ve been named as one of the nicest. It’s a great achievement.”
Find out more about David and The Newfound Friends Charity at www.newfoundfriends.co.uk and see the full Happy List 2019 at www.independent.co.uk/happylist
Read more: In photos: Bristol Harbour Festival 2019
Our top newsletters emailed directly to you
