CYCLISTS are set to get their spokes spinning across the South Downs to raise vital funds for assistance dog charity Canine Partners on Sunday, September 30. Pedal For Paws South launches from the charity’s Southern Training Centre in Heyshott, near Midhurst. Last year more than 100 riders took part and Canine Partners are hoping for even more this time around.

Kerenza Holzman is one of many beneficiaries of the charity. After routine surgery left her with post traumatic stress disorder leading to myalgic encephalopathy, Kerenza needed a wheelchair and was matched with her canine partner, Whisky, in June 2012 (pictured together).

Kerenza said: “Whisky has really changed my life, as before him I was quite depressed, I didn’t go out a lot and I didn’t work so I spent a lot of time indoors and life was really hard.

“I’ve now made new friends, met loads of new people and I feel like I have a life again. Whisky has given me back my independence.

• The fun cycle event has a choice of two routes adapted to suit all abilities. Registration opens from 8am, with races starting at 9am for the 52-mile route and 9:30am for the 29 mile route.

For more information go to: caninepartners.org.uk/pedalforpaws.