Northampton man honoured for hard work as volunteer at dog blood donation sessions

A Northampton man has been awarded for his hard work and dedication to his volunteering role with a charity that takes blood donations from dogs and then sends them to other pooches who are in need.

Nick Fountain from Duston, who has been volunteering for the Pet Blood Bank since 2019, uses his weekends and annual leave to help out at donation sessions.

The 47-year-old's role involves working with the team on donation days to ensure all owners and their dogs are well looked after while attending their appointments.

Nick, who works for Sainsbury's bank, has also supported the charity at Crufts and was keen to get involved in other events before the pandemic hit.

Unfortunately, during the various lockdowns, the charity had to suspend its volunteer programme, but it hopes to bring it back soon.

According to the charity, Nick always goes above and beyond and offers an invaluable extra pair of hands at busy donation days and events. It is for this passion and commitment that the charity has recognised him with this award.

Nick said: “I am delighted and very proud to receive the award.

“It's been such a great experience being able to help out at donation sessions, so being nominated and winning feels amazing.

“I love seeing so many happy donor dogs and owners at the sessions I've helped at and knowing how much of a difference they are making makes volunteering so worthwhile and rewarding.

“I can't wait to get back to seeing them and the teams when it's finally possible.”

Nick was chosen as one of the winners in its Heart of Pet Blood Bank Award 2019-20 and was presented with his award at a virtual awards ceremony hosted by the charity last Tuesday (March 2).

The charity is always on the lookout for more dog donors as with every donation having the potential to help save up to four other dogs.

Owners who have a happy, healthy, and confident dog, aged between one and eight and over 25kg, could be a lifesaver by getting involved in the donations.

To find out more, visit the charity’s website.

Message from the editor:

Thank you for reading this story on our website. While I have your attention, I also have an important request to make of you.

In order for us to continue to provide trusted local news on this free-to-read site, I am asking you to also please purchase a copy of our newspaper while out for your essential shopping.

Our journalists are highly trained and our content is independently regulated by IPSO to some of the highest standards in the world. The dramatic events of 2020 are having a major impact on many of our local valued advertisers and consequently the advertising that we receive. We are now more reliant than ever on you helping us to provide you with news by buying a copy of our newspaper.

Thank you