Eight-year-old raises hundreds for retired police dogs with sponsored silence

An eight-year-old raised more than £500 for a charity that supports retired police dogs by completing a sponsored silence.

Phoebe Shrimpton, from Cheshire, is a Brownie with the 1st Audlem Brownies and wanted to complete her charity badge.  

Her mum, Charlotte, said:

“Phoebe was required to identify and research a charity for whom she wanted to raise money, and then complete an activity in order to raise the funds.” 

Phoebe decided she wanted to support the Thin Blue Paw Foundation; a charity that supports and rehabilitates working and retired police dogs across the UK.  

Phoebe’s dad is a firearms officer and instructor with Cheshire Constabulary.  

Charlotte added:

“As a police family, the Thin Blue Paw is close to our hearts. Phoebe talked to her dad about the roles of police dogs and did her own research into the Foundation and the wonderful work it does.  

“She adores German Shepherds and it was important for her to understand the reality of their job and the vital support they require as they enter retirement.” 

Phoebe decided she wanted to take on a sponsored silence as it would be the ‘hardest challenge’. Phoebe managed to stay silent for eight hours. 

Phoebe said:

“My sponsored silence was so hard but I got there in the end! I’m really pleased I have achieved my Brownie charity badge but even more proud that I raised so much money for the retired police dogs.  

“I hope I have made a difference and I know the dogs will get all the care they need and deserve.” 

“We couldn’t have been prouder,” Charlotte added. “She is an absolute ball of fun; she’s bright, bubbly and super kind, but she’s the biggest chatterbox, so this was really tough for her!” 

Phoebe has since been presented with her charity badge which she now wears with pride.  

Thin Blue Paw Foundation founder Kieran Stanbridge said: 

“We’re so grateful to Phoebe for taking on this challenge to raise money for the vital work we do with retired police dogs.  

“Phoebe is a real inspiration and a true friend to our canine heroes. We’re so proud of her accomplishments and want to wish her luck when she takes on her next Brownie badge challenge.” 

You can find out more about the Thin Blue Paw Foundation here:

https://www.thinbluepaw.org.uk/

Pictured - Phoebe Shrimpton.