As the spring rodeo season in the United States gets underway, University of Glasgow students are continuing one of the most colourful and spectacular frontier traditions. The Vet School 46th Annual Rodeo will take place on Saturday 29th April, at the Garscube Estate, Bearsden 10am - 5pm. The Rodeo supports the local community by providing a day of fun and raising substantial funds for a range of charities.

From smaller beginnings in the days of Buccleuch Street when the Rodeo was a show jumping competition, the event has grown to become one of Scotland's largest student fundraisers. What's more, it isn't just for cowboys and cowgirls. The Rodeo provides a day of education and fun while raising money for nominated charities. This year's special guest is Jim Wight, the son of James Herriot ﾖ one of Glasgow Vet School's most famous alumni.

The Vet School's annual charity event entertains and raises awareness of important animal welfare issues. It is organised and run by students who have actively gained support and sponsorship from local and national companies.

All proceeds go to three very worthy causes, and this year's nominated charities are:

  • Riding For The Disabled (RDA): This charity organisation provides therapy for disabled children and adults in the form of riding and carriage driving
  • Greyhound Awareness League (GAL): This organisation is dedicated to rescuing and rehoming ex-racing, abandoned or ex-working greyhounds and lurchers.
  • Vet School Development Fund: The first project of the Vet School Development Fund is to build a fantastic new £10M Small Animal Hospital at Glasgow Vet School.
From Western riding displays to craft fairs, game stalls to husky sledding, you'll find something for everybody and lots of fun and games for children.

Convenor Sian Durward-Akhurst, a 2nd year Veterinary student, said: " The Rodeo last year was a huge success, raising over £6,000 for the three deserving charities, and with nearly 3000 visitors the day was a huge success. This year the Rodeo will be even more spectacular, and visitors will get close to a huge variety of animals from snakes to huskies, to horses and ferrets. Come along and have fun and don't forget your dog and small furry- there are show classes to suit everyone!"

The event is open to everyone. Entry prices: adults £5, concessions £2.50, family ticket £10 and under 3s go free. Visit: Rodeo

For more information contact:
Sian Durward-Akhurst: 07840024360, vet_rodeo@hotmail.com
Gemma Thorpe: 07763157649

Media Relations Office (media@gla.ac.uk)

First published: 28 April 2006

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