Dan Sutcliffe, RVN and Area Manager for Medivet, is going to run the Great North Run half marathon in an inflatable rhino costume to raise funds for the Wilderness Foundation Africa's Forever Wild Rhino Protection initiative.

Dan, who is a novice runner, will be running the 13.1 miles between Newcastle and South Shields on Sunday 12 September. He said: “You’d think that lockdown would be the perfect opportunity to train hard and then breeze through the ‘world’s biggest and best half marathon’ but, perhaps like many others, I ate cheese and drank wine for 18 months, so the challenge is now really on.

“I’m raising funds to help save the rhino because the conservation of these magnificent animals is so important and I hope the added pressure of supporting the charity will propel me across the finish line. I’m also excited to be running in Newcastle at a time when Medivet is growing its presence in the North-East of England.

“Running in the rhino suit will be tough but it has an internal fan which I hope will keep me cool on the day.  Let’s hope the weather will be kind!”

Donations to support Dan's fundraising can be made at https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/DanSutcliffe1

PS: Whilst you're here, take a moment to see our latest job opportunities for vet nurses.