K9 Crusaders' new patron, Zoey Wright and two of her colleagues, took to their bikes to raise money for the dog charity

Bodybuilder and fitness model, Zoey, who has battled back to fitness after being diagnosed with ulcerative colitis which left her with a ostomy bag, wanted to make her mark on the charity by raising some much needed cash.

Along with friends and colleagues Kirsty and Rachel, who work at the Penryn Campus Sports Centre, she opted to spend ten gruelling hours on a spin bike. The trio were delighted after completing the challenge to discover they not only met their target, but smashed it.

"Me and the girls couldn't be any happier with the amount of money we have raised for such an incredible charity," said Zoey. "The ten hours were tough and we all still have very sore legs and bums but it was worth it. Thank you to everyone who donated and popped in to see us a the sports centre to cheer us on - we couldn't of done it without you guys rooting for us."

Charity founder, Sue Smith said: "Funds are still coming in and currently stand at £800 plus which is a fabulous result for Zoey's first fundraising event for K9 Crusaders and hopefully makes the burning butts and numb legs a little easier to bear. What an incredible achievement. We are so very grateful, as well as full of admiration."

K9 Crusaders' spokesperson, Hilary Merton, added: "The kennel's general running costs to support the many dogs in our care are approximately £1,000 a week before vet bills and the charity is totally dependent on its fund-raising so it is absolutely fantastic for this event to take some of the pressure off."

Anyone who would like to donate can still do so, by sending a cheque to the kennels at Bissoe or donating through paypal to k9crusaders@hotmail.co.uk.

Events such as the spin-at-thon enable the charity to look after the many dogs who need their help to find a new home, such as bonded pair, Coco and Bailey.

"Someone will be lucky to have this lovely pair in their home as they really are the sweetest little dogs, totally adorable and so friendly and affectionate," said Sue. "No cats for these two though please, with an adults only or children of 14 years plus in the home."

Anyone interested in offering the pair a forever home, or helping in any way, should call 01872 560232.