JO DUDEK, owner and veterinary surgeon of Vets4Pets in Launceston, ran the 2019 London Marathon on behalf of animal charity Blue Cross.

Jo is well-known in the town for her job and explained her reasoning behind choosing Blue Cross, who support pet owners who cannot afford private veterinary treatment, helps to find homes for unwanted animals, and educates the public in the responsibilities of animal ownership.

She said: “By working everyday as a vet, we see lots of animals in need of rehoming/fostering and urgent veterinary care. So I felt I wanted to raise awareness of this worldwide problem but also raise money to help Blue Cross to continue to help these animals.”

Jo previously completed the Brighton Marathon back in 2015 for the RSPCA, but this was her first time doing the London equivalent.

She said: “I enjoy running everyday with my dogs around the beautiful Cornish countryside. I find it helps me to switch off from day-to-day life and gives me opportunity to relax after a busy day at work.”

So how did she do?

Jo said: “Running the London Marathon was one of the best experiences in my life. The amount of amazing people running for different causes was just incredible. The support helped to make me run faster which helped me to beat my previous time and complete it in four hours and eight minutes.

“I managed to rise £1,700 in total which is only £200 short of my target, so if anyone would like to still donate please go to my Justgiving page at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/jo-dudek

“I just want to say a massive thank you to everyone who donated especially all our lovely clients and a special thank you to Lady Marion Gavin with everything she organised to help with fundraising.”