A teenager from Welwyn Garden City who has raised more than £29,000 to help abandoned dogs has received a letter of support from Queen Camilla ahead of a milestone night of camping.

Christmas Eve will mark the 1,000th night that 14-year old Ashley Owens has camped out in a tent as part of his "sleep out to help out" fundraising campaign for Paws2Rescue, a charity which works tirelessly to rehome abandoned dogs.

Ahead of his milestone night, Ashley has received a letter from Queen Camilla, who revealed her "admiration" for his efforts.

Welwyn Hatfield Times: Ashley has had Bertie by his side throughout his fundraising efforts.Ashley has had Bertie by his side throughout his fundraising efforts. (Image: Emma Owens)

"I am full of admiration for your determination to do everything to rescue these poor animals. You are making an incredible difference to dogs across the world," she wrote.

Ashley's determination has seen him spend nights in his tent no matter the weather, enduring storms, freezing temperatures, heatwaves and even his old tent collapsing on top of him under the weight of snow.

To donate to Ashley, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/ashleyowens12.

Welwyn Hatfield Times: Rescue dog Lucia has been there to support Ashley.Rescue dog Lucia has been there to support Ashley. (Image: Emma Owens)

He hopes to raise more than £30,000, with the teenager adding: "While there are still dogs being badly treated and sleeping on the streets, I will continue to sleep in my tent."

Ashley doesn't spend the nights alone though, as he his joined by his two dogs, Bertie, a Springer Spaniel, and Lucia, a rescue dog who was found at eight weeks old with burns down her back.

"We are very proud of what Ashley has achieved. His determination to keep going has inspired all his family," said his mother, Emma Owens.

Welwyn Hatfield Times: Ashley has slept in his tent no matter the weather.Ashley has slept in his tent no matter the weather. (Image: Emma Owens)

"Although they enjoy sleeping in a tent together, it’s also hard when it’s really cold or Ashley doesn't feel well.

"Every night, we leave our bedroom window open at night so that we can listen out for him."

Ashley began sleeping in his tent back in 2021, when he was just 11 years old, and he has raised money for a host of dog rehoming charities across the world.

Both he and Bertie were also nominated for the Kennel Club Hero Dog Award at this year's Crufts Show.