Mon. Dec 23rd, 2024

A new children’s book from author Chris Dignam is raising awareness of greyhounds as pets and boosting funds for a rescue charity in its silver jubilee year.

The Winter Hare – described as ‘a children’s book that’s suitable for anyone aged eight to 80’ – is out now, with a percentage of proceeds going towards Greyhound Rescue Wales. The book is the second in The Largest Rabbit series and can be read as a follow-on or as a story in its own right. Greyhound Rescue Wales, which rehomes former racing greyhounds and lurchers as well as funding veterinary care for many dogs injured on the track each year. Greyhound Rescue Wales was launched in Swansea in 1993 and is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a series of events and fundraisers across Wales.

They have generously offered a competition. The prizes are – a signed copy of The Winter Hare and hand-drawn and hand-painted pair of goblets. Please email here with your name and address for a chance to win.

Chris launched The Winter Hare with a book signing and reading at GRW’s Swansea shop. He was accompanied by Penny, who is renowned in south Wales for her appearances at the many talks, Chris, and his wife Armelle, give in support of GRW. Penny is also the ‘crafty dog’ that their business is named after!

Chris said: “Sales of the new book have been amazing and we have sent signed copies as far as Canada, Australia and the USA, as well as many across the UK. The feedback has been that it’s a great read and that it makes a perfect stocking filler for Christmas. Every copy sold will help give the dogs in Greyhound Rescue Wales have a better Christmas too.”

Crafty Dog Cymru was founded by Chris and Armelle and, in addition to books, specialises in delicious homemade jams and chutneys and bespoke glassware and gifts. They produce a wide range of hand-crafted artisan glassware from new and recycled glass. All hand-drawn and painted drinking glasses are in many different designs, and can also be personalised and made to order. Please visit the website for more details, and to make orders. Crafty Dog Cymru

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By Penny McCarthy

Penny McCarthy is a seasoned entrepreneur and co-founder of Parents News UK, a pioneering publication launched in 1993 to serve the needs of busy parents in Southwest London. Alongside her husband, Fergus McCarthy, Penny played a crucial role in the rapid expansion of the printed edition, which grew from a local startup to a widely circulated monthly publication with a reach of 192,000 copies across Kent, South London, and beyond. Under Penny’s leadership, Parents News quickly became a trusted resource for families, providing valuable information on education, entertainment, sports, and family-friendly events. Her vision helped the publication extend its influence with franchises in Northern Ireland and Cornwall, catering to a growing demand for accessible, family-oriented content. In 1997, recognising the importance of digital media, Penny spearheaded the launch of Parents News UK Online. The website initially mirrored the content of the printed editions and has since evolved into a comprehensive online resource for parents, achieving significant popularity with up to 700 daily hits. In 2017, the publication transitioned fully to an online platform, continuing to inform and engage families across the UK. Today, Penny remains deeply involved in the ongoing success of Parents News UK, focusing on innovative advertising opportunities and future growth plans. Her dedication to supporting families through accessible and practical content has made Parents News a cherished name in households across the country.

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