North-east couple to run around Disneyland for cats

A young Aberdeenshire couple are running a marathon around Disneyland Paris to raise money for a cat charity.

Claire and Joe Hughes, both 21, have signed up for the 36km Disneyland Run Weekend in September, joining other charity fundraisers as they race around the theme park.

The duo share a love of cats, which is why they have chosen the Aberdeen branch of Cats Protection as their nominated charity.

Mrs Hughes said: “Cats Protection’s Outer Aberdeen branch does an amazing job looking after the welfare of the cats in their care.

“They resumed last year with a new coordinator who is very enthusiastic and motivates the wonderful volunteers.

“My mum is one of the volunteers, so I’m aware of the work they do and the fundraising they carry out to support their work.”

The pair have previously run a half marathon in London, raising money for Epilepsy Action, a cause close to Mrs Hughes’ heart as she was diagnosed with the condition at the age of six and was helped by the charity.

The challenge is held over a weekend, as they take part in a 5km race on Friday, 10km on Saturday and half-marathon on the Sunday, taking in the sights and sounds of the Disney park and being cheered on by a host of cartoon characters.

The Outer Aberdeen branch is part of a national network of more than 250 volunteer-run branches and 36 centres that help around 200,000 cats and year.

It works to rehome cats to suitable families, rescue unwanted and neglected pets and help people on low incomes with the cost of neutering, as well as offer information on how to care for the animals.

To donate to Claire and Joe’s charity challenge, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/ ClaireHughes24 kittens each

“The branch does an amazing job looking after cats in their care”