Alan Hobbs, who turns 80 this year, will be abseiling 300 feet from the top of the Portsmouth Spinnaker Tower alongside Nick Winnal to raise money for the West Mercia Retired Police Dog Welfare Fund on the 31st May 2026. They will be joined by their friend of the fund, Jill Byrne.

Alan had a Retired Police Dog of his own, Jerry, who sadly passed away a few years ago. Jerry was supported throughout his senior life by the Fund, and Alan has continued to massively support the charity in Jerry's memory. Retired Police Dogs are not insurable, so vet bills can become costly for those who support them later in life. The Fund provides financial support for medical bills, physiotherapy support, and many other costs. These are not just dogs, they are brave heroes, and they deserve the very best during their service and throughout their retirement.

Alan's brave abseil is in Jerry's memory, and fundraisers like this are invaluable to the Fund, which relies solely on donations to keep going.

Thank you so very much for any support, it is hugely appreciated by all of us at the West Mercia Retired Police Dog Welfare Fund!