A dog owner has organised a charity event to raise money for the fight against a deadly disease that claimed one of his pet's lives. 

Shaun Reynolds recently lost his dog Willow to Alabama Rot which currently has no known cure.

In the aftermath of losing Willow, he has organised a  ‘A Celebration of Willow’ charity whippet racing event at Lambourn Sports Club on Saturday, August 31, from 5pm.

The club’s football field will be temporarily turned into a purpose-built track for the event. 

Seven races will take place, a three-piece Irish folk band will play afterwards plus there’ll be inflatable games, a raffle, an after-party and team competitions where prizes can be won.

Shaun’s own whippet Willow became infected with Alabama Rot earlier and died after a lengthy battle against it some days later.

Since her death, Shaun has raised £9,500 in support of the Alabama Rot Research Fund – the only charity working to find a cure for the disease which has been diagnosed in 324 dogs in the UK ever.

“The messages of support and donations received since Willow’s death have been so touching,” said Shaun, a former Swindon Advertiser sports reporter. “Losing her to such a rare and awful disease was completely devastating.

“We gave up everything to fund her 24/7 treatment with the world’s leading veterinary team for Alabama Rot who worked miracles to discharge her after 10 days of care. Unfortunately, Willow’s condition suddenly deteriorated days after returning home and despite further efforts, she lost her battle on March 5.

“I’m a big believer in making a positive out of any situation, so now wish for Willow’s legacy to help save the lives of other dogs by raising much-needed awareness about Alabama Rot and how it can be prevented."

Currently, there is no cure for Alabama Rot and it is not known how dogs become infected. The disease also cannot be diagnosed in a dog that is alive.

It’s believed cases are linked to dogs walked in wet, muddy, woodland areas with most incidents happening between November and May.

Owners are advised to wash their dog's paws at the end of walks with Willow’s symptoms including an unexplained limp followed by a skin sore and then sickness and lethargic behaviour.

Admission for ‘A Celebration of Willow’ at Lambourn Sports Club on Saturday, August 31, is £5 with U18s priced £1.