A young girl with severe specialist healthcare needs has been named Fundraiser of the Year by Support Dogs.

Nine-year-old Harriette Parker-Harrison has complex health needs after being born prematurely and spending the first two years of her life in intensive care, and can’t walk or talk.

But she raised more than £500 for the assistance dog charity after taking part in the Junior Great North Run earlier this year, beating her fundraising target by more than £50.

She was pushed round the Junior Great North Run course in her wheelchair by her dad Allan and step-sister Amy, a dog trainer at the Sheffield-based charity.

Harriette, from Ferryhill, Co Durham,  successfully completed the Darlington Junior 3k, the Darlington 10K and other fun runs, and does park run most weeks.

“Harriette loves the sensation of running, and hearing people cheering, and always has a great time whizzing round,” explained Amy. “She has and will always have a huge amount of help and support throughout her life, so wanted to help other disabled people to enjoy the outdoors and an active life as much as she does by raising money for Support Dogs.”

Further fundraising runs are planned for the brave youngster, who despite her disabilities also enjoys roller-skating, horse-riding and swimming.

Support Dogs’ fundraising manager Danny Anderson said:“Harriet is an inspiring child who has shown incredible determination to help other people have a better life.”

Harriette was presented with her award at the Support Dogs annual Graduation and Awards Ceremony in Sheffield.

November 2017