Forty-six-year-old Martin Dunn from Stockport has been recognised as 'volunteer of the year' for the national charity Support Dogs. 

Support Dogs trains and provides assistance dogs to help children and adults with epilepsy or physical disability.

Martin's efforts have seen him take on abseils, look after animals, take part in fundraisers, and more. 

Part of the work for the charity involves 'socialising' the dogs, so they are ready for service in the wider world on behalf of the people who need them - this is something Martin and his wife Sue have done in spades. 

Speaking of the process of socialising the dogs, Martin said it had been a "learning curve". 

Martin poses with Betty, one of the support dogs he has helped to socialise (Image - Support Dogs)

He added: "The biggest motivation is knowing what these dogs will go on to do."

Martin has even created 33 plaited 'tug toys' for dogs since the summer, researching and sourcing the material himself. Proceeds from sales will go towards Support Dogs. 

Further still, Martin 'took the plunge' in May 2021 by tackling a 90ft drop from the Millers Dale bridge over the Monsal Trail in aid of Support Dogs. 

Recalling the surprise phone call from the charity's chief executive, Rita Howson, informing him of his award, Martin said: "You don't think about that sort of thing – you don't do it for rewards. "But to think somebody appreciates the things we are doing, it's really nice." 

Martin receives his volunteer of the year award from Support Dogs (Image - Support Dogs)

He said the award wasn't just his, but it also belongs to his wife, Sue a 46-year-old assistant headteacher, and 12-year-old daughter Jess. 

Describing his pride at being involved with the charity, Martin said: "I think it's brilliant. "When you see footage of the clients, it's just fantastic the difference it makes to people's lives.

 "The staff are fantastic and really focused and hard-working." 

To find out how to become a puppy socialiser like Martin, please visit www.supportdogs.org.uk.

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