- Find a Pet
- Advice and Welfare
- Ways to Give
- Get Involved
- What We Do
- Search
- My RSPCA
- Report a concern
- Gifts in Wills
-
Colour modeVivid Calm
- Home
- Success Stories
- Archive
- Details
50 Miles In Memory
Dog lover and loving son, Ben, completed our 50 Miles in March in memory of his mother, Lynn. Together with Ellie, Lynn’s 13-year-old bichon frisé, the determined duo raised an incredible £1,523.55 for the RSPCA.
Published:
Content warning
There may be distressing images of animal cruelty and neglect in this story.
In honour of Lynn and her love of dogs
Ben decided to take on the RSPCA’s 50 Miles in March in memory of his mother; lifelong animal lover, Lynn Minard, who passed away on 1 February after a brave battle with blood cancer. Her best friend, the 13-year-old bichon frisé, Ellie, joined Ben on the journey, the two of them honouring her memory one mile at a time.
Ben said: “Mum was the biggest supporter of 'adopt, don't shop.' She rescued so many animals in her life. Her love for dogs was her biggest passion; she always wanted to take on the ones who had the hardest start in life – and she did. With her love and patience, she gave each dog the best life they could have.”
Ellie being one of them. And with every step of foot and paw, Ben sensed his mum nearby. “Walking with Ellie each day is the closest I’ve been able to feel to Mum since she passed. She adored Ellie, as she did all her past dogs, and I know she would give anything to still be here walking her too. I chat to her in my head whilst I walk, and when I’m lucky enough to see a beautiful sky or sunset, I know it’s Mum looking down on me and her beloved Ellie.”
What started as a simple tribute to his mum blossomed into something incredible, raising £1,523.55 for the RSPCA. Ben and Ellie’s funds will help us continue what Lynn dedicated herself to; ensuring as many dogs as possible experience love, safety and joy.
The love Ben has for his Mum and for Ellie is truly inspiring, and we’re just so touched by their story. They’re a wonderful example of the passion our supporters have, and it’s why we’re so lucky to have amazing animal champions like Ben helping us. Every single pound raised can go a long way to helping us rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome animals in desperate need of care.
Miles, memories and the support of many
Ben and Ellie may have tackled this challenge as a pair, but their story has had an impact on many. “I’ve been amazed by the support I’ve received from people. I just signed up to do some walks in memory of my Mum, yet people have really taken our story into their hearts.” Ben explained. “They stop us as we walk, always to say hello to Ellie as she loves attention, and it gets us talking about the challenge and why I’m doing it, and of course, talking about my Mum.”
With a crowd cheering on their cause and Lynn’s memory motivating every mile, Ben and Ellie have made a difference his mum would be proud of.
Ben was our top fundraiser for 50 Miles in March 2026, and collectively the event raised £62,574.68!
How can you fundraise In Memory?
By fundraising in memory of a loved person or pet, you’re creating a special tribute. Every donation provides vital rescue and care, and a second chance for animals in need – it’s a beautiful way to celebrate a life while protecting another. Find more information on how to fundraise here.
