SURF DUDE A CHARITY LEGEND

We had so many brilliant nominations for the Mirror People’s Pet Awards, and while not every one can be a winner, our judges felt that others deserved a special mention.

Our first Highly Commended certificate goes to pooch Scooter, who makes a huge difference to his community.

As well as visiting patients, staff and visitors at St Richard’s Hospital, Chichester, the blue-haired canine has his very own Beach School where he runs Surf Therapy sessions along with local charity One Wave Bracklesham Bay. The aim is to raise awareness of mental health and the benefits of salt water therapy.

The Poodle mix, a rescue dog from the streets of Portugal, also works with The

Wave Project, a nationwide charity supporting children and young people who experience a range of physical and mental health issues, social deprivation or social isolation.

Scooter, who is also registered with national charity Pets

As Therapy, has an adapted surfboard and beach wheelchair so that physically disabled kids can ride with him too.

His owner, Kirstie Coy-martin, a qualified Beach School Teacher, is a Mental

Health First Aider. She’s Peer Support trained and has diplomas in Children and Young Person’s Mental Health and Understanding Autism. Kirstie, a former police officer, said: “It’s lovely to be recognised with Scooter being Highly Commended in the Webbox Joy of Pets category for the good work he does in the community.

“It’s his mission to raise awareness of the importance of mental health, the magic of the sea, accessibility and to bring smiles to people’s faces.”