Weald Country Park launches ‘Pete Wicks’ Dog Walking Trail’ in honour of Dogs Trust ambassador’s work with dogs and mental wellbeing.
In the first of a number of initiatives aimed at dog walkers, Essex County Council’s Explore Essex has named its new dog walking trail after Pete Wicks. This is due to Pete’s long-standing commitment to animal welfare and his standout work as an ambassador for Dogs Trust Basildon, which resulted in him fronting the ever popular and award-winning U&W TV docu-series ‘Pete Wicks – For Dog’s Sake’.
Feedback and impact from the dog rescue show has been extraordinarily positive in the area and beyond. During the last series of the show, across the UK, Dogs Trust experienced its busiest ever month on record for adoption requests and saw a 20% rise in donations. Pete is also a celebrated pioneer for men’s mental health and wellbeing, following the release of his Sunday Times best-selling book ‘Never Enough’ and his chart-topping mental health podcast ‘Man Made.’
Honoured to have a new dog walking trail named after him. Pete said: “One thing I didn’t have on my bingo card this year was having an Explore Essex dog walking trail named after me! That said, I am grateful to see the brilliant work of rescue centres and their volunteers being recognised in this way. Getting outside in nature is good for all of us, so I genuinely hope people come along with their dogs and enjoy Brentwood’s Weald Country Park.”
Explore Essex is keen to offer all residents of Essex, and their waggy-tailed friends, great spaces to enjoy responsible dog walking experiences.
Explore Essex has eight country parks across the county from Belhus Woods near Aveley to Cudmore Grove, Mersea Island. Weald Country Park has long been a family favourite, thanks to its Stick Man Trail, huge open spaces, resident deer herd and visitor café.
Ricky Hooper, Essex Country Parks Manager, said: “All eight of our country parks provide the perfect place for dog owners and their four-legged friends to explore the diverse landscapes we have right here in our county. From woodlands to marshes to beachside environments, there’s something for everyone and every dog to enjoy and explore.
“Weald Country Park in particular offers spectacular views and space throughout its 520 acres of unique historic parkland, and being close to the M25 and A12, it’s the perfect place to meet with family and friends.
“We’re delighted to shine a light on the amazing work Pete Wicks has undertaken to help dogs find a new home with the naming of this new trail. It’s also really inspiring to see someone from Essex raise so much awareness around mental health – for which a walk in the park can have a positive impact.”
Weald Country Park offers spectacular views and space at over 520’s acres. Being close to the M25 and A12, it’s the perfect place to meet with friends and family and walk four-legged friends through its diverse landscapes of woodland, wildflower meadows and open parkland.
The new Pete Wicks’ Dog Walking Trail was officially launched on 2 April.
