From Golden Retrievers to Labradoodles, Shelties to 'Heinz 57 Terriers', Helen Shuttleworth has walked them all.

In May, when lockdown was in full force and she was facing redundancy from her job, Helen decided to set up her own dog-walking business, Walkies with Helen.

"I just thought: "why not?!"" she says.

With support from fellow local dog-walkers, Purr & Grr, and a logo designed by her graphic-designer brother, Helen was ready to start serving her canine clientele.

Instead of walking big groups of six or more, Helen decided to specialise in solo walks, which are great for dogs that might be unused to socialising.

She also offers a 'popping-in service' for people who need to leave their dog alone during the day.

With great reviews and some very happy dogs under her belt, Helen is now building up a loyal customer base.

"I absolutely love it," Helen tells me. "After 25 years in Events, Hotel Sales and Marketing, my new office is the great outdoors!" she says.

After leaving a stressful work environment in 2019, Helen started working for local outdoor adventure centre, Hover Force.

"This was working at home in sales, something I loved and enjoyed. But whether it's raining or shining, it's always a good day outdoors, seeing the seasonal changes, and generally just watching the dogs having a great time."

Helen has enjoyed exploring all the beautiful footpaths and beauty spots that the area has to offer, especially Helsby Hill, Harmers Wood and Snidley Moor, which she now visits very often!

Getting to know the individual characters of all her different dogs has also been a fun experience for Helen, who can't help but smile when her four-legged friends decide they want to carry their own leads.

"I walk a Saluki Smooth Hound, Fergal, who is so expressive," she adds. "As a sight hound he is eagle eyed for any squirrels, and loves to run!

"I've read that the Saluki has been clocked at nearly 43 mph, meaning that, over distances of more than half a mile, it might be faster than the greyhound."

"So I let him run round and make sure it is all safe and secure when he does, as I can't catch him at 43 mph! However, he is good as gold and always comes running back for a cuddle and a treat."

Helen has always been a big fan of dogs, and tells me that "I had to nag my Dad until, aged 14, I eventually got one: a Border Terrier called Titch.

After spending years moving between Britain, Jersey and the United States, Helen now has another Border Terrier, Ruby, and chocolate Labrador, Poppy, who sometimes acts as her furry assistant, and is very pleased that she made the leap to take up dog walking!

If you'd like to find out more about Helen's dog walking services, you can contact her over email at [email protected], or visit her Facebook page for further details.