14-year-old pooch lover planning Bark Life event in Penwortham to help dog charity

Annie Pickup and Bolt — Bolt has changed Annie’s life

A 14-year-old girl who loves dogs is organising an event in Penwortham to raise funds for charity.

Annie Pickup is planning Bark Life, Beer and Bangers, which will take place at The Sir Tom Finney in Central Drive, with the help of licensee Jen Williams.

Annie has a rare genetic condition, Kabuki Syndrome, which affects her mobility and immunity. She lives in Hutton and attends Astey Park School in Chorley. Her passion for dogs started to grow after she got her own pooch, Bolt, in 2019.

Mum Michelle said: “Bolt became Annie’s sidekick and never left her alone. Over the years their bond grew and Bolt was so in tune with Annie that he could tell when she was poorly or in danger.

“He became a massive emotional support for Annie; we took him everywhere she went and he made her settle when she became overwhelmed.”

Annie Pickup and Bolt at the beach — Annie and Bolt at the beach

When lockdown hit in 2020, Annie started making dog treats at home.

“It gathered interest and Annie started selling the treats to family and friends,” said Michelle. “That is where Annie’s quest to raise money for different dog charities began.

“In 2022 Annie held two dog events – a Pawfee morning and Howleween – which raised over £1,500 for dog charities and local food banks providing dog food for families who are struggling.

“The following year Annie was very poorly and in and out of the hospital for most of the year, which stopped her organising anything. However, she has come back full force since asking Jen about holding this event at her pub.”

Annie Pickup at a pumpkin patch with a friend — Annie’s ultimate dream is to own an ice cream van that caters to dogs and ‘hoomans’ alike

Bark Life, Beer and Bangers is set to take place on Saturday 1 June from 12pm. It will feature a fun dog show, groomers, demonstrations, a dog bakery, craft stalls and much more.

The event will raise money for Support Dogs, a national charity that provides, trains and supports specialist assistance dogs to improve the lives of children and adults with various challenging medical conditions, including autism and epilepsy.

Michelle continued: “The Sir Tom Finney is the most friendly, community-led pub you could think of. Jen is always organising activities to bring the community together and raise funds for charity. She thought this was a great idea and gave us free rein to organise the show while she sorts the beers and bangers.

“We are lucky to be surrounded by so many amazing people and local businesses who have offered to hold stalls or provide raffle prizes, such as Bamfords at Midge Hall and Michael Bailey Estate Agent, who has offered to do a sweet stall with profits going to charity. Our friend Heidi from Design Cottage has created all Annie’s logos and posters, which is a huge help.”

As well as planning Bark Life, Annie is in the process of setting up a business, Annie’s Dog Treats, for when she leaves school.

Michelle said: “Life isn’t as straightforward for Annie, but her ultimate dream is to own an ice cream van that caters to dogs and ‘hoomans’ alike at festivals and their homes. Watch this space as Annie’s drive and ambition will take her places!”

Subscribe: Keep in touch directly with the latest headlines from Blog Preston, join our WhatsApp channel and subscribe for our twice-a-week email newsletter. Both free and direct to your phone and inbox.