We are asking all of you wonderful supporters to help us to help the animals in need by getting involved in our 2.6 challenge. 26th April is the start of the 2.6 challenge, a fundraising initiative set up by Virgin Money to try and give much needed support to charities who are feeling the lockdown and whose charitable efforts are being seriously disrupted. Chimney Farm is no exception. The situation in Northern Greece, Crete and Portugal has never been worse. There are unprecedented numbers of strays being abandoned and poisonings occurring daily. We are hoping to raise funds to rebuild a damaged shelter, get dogs to safety in foster and purchase food, flea and worm treatments.

What is the 2.6 Challenge?

The 2.6 challenge is being undertaken all over the UK, with people participating wherever they are located (while respecting social distancing rules). All we ask is that you complete a fun challenge related to the number 26 (the number of miles in a marathon, plus the date the event would have taken place). Anything goes, from running around the garden for 2.6 miles to doing 26 squats with your dog.

How can you get involved?

Choose a challenge that suits you, whether you want to really push yourself, or take it easy. Do the challenge alone, with your dog or children... you choose! Take a picture/video of you completing your challenge, upload it to this page and tag us on Instagram/share on our Facebook pages. Once you have completed the challenge, please then donate £5.

After completing your challenge we want you to nominate 5 friends to also get involved and help raise money for Chimney Farm. You can ask them to do the same challenge or make it a bit tougher.

We've included a few ideas to get you started...

- 2.6 mile walk or run in fancy dress with your dog

- Draw 26 dogs

- Take 26 photos of your dog

- Dance for 26 minutes whilst your dog relaxes and stares at you like your crazy

.- Bake 26 biscuits