FORWARD: Spring 2015
Guide Dogs presents the Spring 2015 issue of Forward, the official Guide Dogs magazine.
Introduction
This document contains every part of the print version of Forward, and in the same order as that used in the print edition.
The list of contents following this paragraph uses hyperlinks within the titles – if you press enter whilst the cursor is within the text of the article title you will be taken straight to the beginning of that article. If you are using a mouse, press control and then right click on the title to use the hyperlink.
To return to the contents use alt and left arrow, alternatively if your version of word does not support this there is a hyperlink back to the contents at the end of each article.
All subheadings in articles are preceded with ++ if you would like to tab through an article by the subheadings you can type ++ into the search and reach each heading by pressing enter.
This document contains every part of the print version of Forward, and in the same order as that used in the print edition.
Forward
The official Guide Dogs magazine Spring 2015
Inspirational guide dog owner of the year
Meet Verity Smith and our other 2014 award winners
 Standing out for Guide Dogs
Don’t miss our Guide Dogs Week highlights
 Cities Unlocked
Technology that opens up our world
Also inside:
 You’re never too old – getting a guide dog at 90
 Friends of Guide Dogs – an exciting innovation
 40 years, 40 puppies – introducing some longstanding volunteers
 And much more…
The front cover has a photograph of Verity Smith and her guide dog.
The contents, in order, are as follows:
Regulars - Welcome
Regulars - News
Regulars - View from the top

Looking ahead with our CEO
Regulars - Guide Dogs in the media
Coverage highlights
Features - Guide Dogs Week 2014
A roaring success!
Features - Making friends through My Guide
Life-changing partnerships
Features - Never too old
Becoming a guide dog owner at 90
Features - Cities Unlocked
Opening up the world
Regulars - A day in the life of…
Frankie Thomson, baton bearer and deafblind guide dog owner
Features - On the campaign trail
Talking Buses update
Features - Guide Dogs Annual Awards
Celebrating the best of Guide Dogs
Features - Volunteers
The lifeblood of Guide Dogs
Features - 40 years, 40 puppies
Two dedicated volunteers
Features - Friends of Guide Dogs
Sharing experiences of sight loss
Features - A poodle with a transatlantic pedigree
Collaboration from across the pond
Features - Giving the gift of sight
An inspiring legacy tale
People and dogs - In memory
Features - Take a break, change a life
A holiday that supports Guide Dogs
People and dogs - Thank you to our supporters
People and dogs - We’ll never forget
Regulars - What’s on
Guide Dogs’ diary
Features - Guide Dogs at the zoo!
Useful advice for days out
Regulars - Letters
Regulars - Caption competition
Promotions

Contact details - a list of phone numbers and contact details
People and dogs - New partnerships
[Back to contents]
++Editor’s welcome
A very warm welcome to the first Forward of 2015. It’s difficult to believe we’re at the start of another year but here at Guide Dogs we’re all really excited about what’s in store in the months to come.
There are some great stories in this issue about some of the many different people who use our services: on page 15 you can meet Alice Sealeaf who became a guide dog owner for the first time at the age of 90. Then, on page 18, there’s Frankie Thomson, a deafblind guide dog owner who had the honour of being a baton bearer for the Commonwealth Games. And don’t miss our two
My Guide partnerships – Les and John, and Carole and Manveer – on page 14.
Of course, we couldn’t help Alice, Frankie, Manveer and Les, or any of the other thousands of people who use our services every day, if it wasn’t for our faithful army of volunteers and supporters. You can also read about the wonderful work they do, day in, day out, to enable us to change lives. If you’re reading this, chances are you’re one of them – so thank you from the bottom of our hearts, and have a wonderful 2015.
Best wishes
Tracey Gurr
Included here is a photograph of Tracey Gurr.
++The Team
Editor: Tracey Gurr
Editorial Line: 0118 9838811
Contributors: Lucy Llewelyn, Rachael Smith, Niall Foley, Georgia Collins, Tarryn Treadwell, James
Needham, Pippa Block, Penny Williams and Deborah Rees.
Designed by: Guide Dogs http://www.guidedogs.org.uk
Contributions: Send items to Forward at the Head Office address or e-mail forward@guidedogs.org.uk. Unfortunately, due to the sheer volume of ideas we receive, we cannot acknowledge every item. We reserve the right to edit or refuse. Forward is available in
Braille, large print, audio CD and online as audio and text files. It is also available as a PDF from our website and in a range of languages – for this and mailing enquiries call 0870 2406993.
Founding Editor: The late Captain Nikolai Liakhoff MBE FRZS
Registered Head Office: The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association, Hillfields, Burghfield Common,
Reading RG7 3YG
Tel: 0118 9835555
Fax: 0118 9835433 http://www.guidedogs.org.uk
E-mail: info@guidedogs.org.uk
(Copyright) 2010 Registered charity in England and Wales (209617) and in Scotland (SC038979)
Full colour advertising is available in Forward. For information on rates, publication dates and circulation, please call 0845 3727330 or e-mail forwardadvertising@guidedogs.org.uk. Terms and conditions apply.

Any products or services advertised in Forward by third parties are not in any way endorsed by
Guide Dogs and Guide Dogs shall not be responsible for the accuracy of any information contained in such advertisements nor has it investigated or verified any of the information.
[Back to contents]
++The sky’s the limit
Heathrow airport welcomed three generations of guide dogs to terminal five in July. Instead of jetting off to somewhere sunny, these puppies were strictly on duty and, as well as attracting lots of attention from holiday makers, they were completing part of their guide dog training. Puppy walkers brought the trainee guide dogs to Heathrow to introduce them to new sights, sounds and smells. Quince, a 9-year-old retired guide dog, was also there to show the trainee puppies how the job is done. Heathrow has around 70-90,000 passengers requiring assistance each month, and the airport has worked closely with a range of charities to better understand the needs of those with reduced mobility.
Included here is a photograph of the puppy walkers and trainee guide dogs at Heathrow airport.
++Pavement Parking
Earlier this month MP’s had the opportunity to debate pavement parking after an MP put forward a bill calling for a law to be created to tackle the problem. A Guide Dogs survey in 2013 found that 9 out of 10 people experienced problems with pavement parked cars. Since then we’ve been campaigning for a law which would make it illegal to park on the pavement in all streets except where specially designated. Thanks to the hard work of our campaigners who have been emailing, writing and even helping us send Christmas crackers to MP’s, the issue is now being brought to the Government’s attention in both the House of Commons and the Lords. To join the campaign, visit http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/PavementParking or call 0800 0284348.
Included here is a photograph of a lorry parked on a pavement, obstructing the path of a guide dog owner and his guide dog.
++Text Santa – a great success
Thank you to all Forward readers, and your friends and family, who supported Guide Dogs through ITV’s Text Santa. You helped us really make the most of this incredible TV opportunity, which saw celebrity supporters including Simon Cowell and Jeremy Kyle raising Guide Dogs’ profile amongst millions of ITV viewers. The fantastic amount of money raised will be used to help many more people with sight loss live the lives they want to lead.
Included here is the Text Santa logo, which reads: TEXT SANTA (Registered) itv raising funds for
Guide Dogs.
++Trainee guide dogs visit eye clinic
Guide Dogs’ Liverpool team recently spent an interesting afternoon with staff from Aintree
Hospital’s eye clinic. Doctors, nurses and care assistants all got involved with the training, which started with a “whistle-stop tour” of Guide Dogs’ work by the engagement officer, followed by a really practical session delivered by a mobility instructor and two guide dog trainers. The session aimed to help the eye clinic staff see things from their patients’ perspective by giving them blindfold walks with a long cane and with two of our lovely guide dogs in training, Coco and
Purdey.
Included here is a photograph of a lady taking a blindfold walk with a trainee guide dog.
++Happy 30th birthday, Guide Dogs in Northern Ireland
To celebrate three decades of Guide Dogs in Northern Ireland, Lord Morrow kindly hosted a photographic exhibition in the Long Gallery at Stormont Parliament Buildings, showcasing the diverse elements of our work. The event kicked off Guide Dogs Week and was a double celebration – it also included the announcement of audio visual systems to assist bus passengers with sight loss for the Belfast Metro area.

Included here is a photograph of Guide Dogs staff at the photographic exhibition.
++Continuing the artistic theme, the end of October saw a musical celebration of the 30th anniversary. It was a fabulous evening with a great party atmosphere amongst supporters, guide dog owners, staff and volunteers. More than 230 guests came to celebrate and hear Their
Master’s Voice choir and Big Band Warriors. The choir, made up of guide dog owners, staff and volunteers, had been rehearsing for the previous six months. One volunteer said the celebrations
“...made her feel proud to be part of the Guide Dogs family”.
Included here is a photograph of Their Master’s Voice choir.
++Guide dogs make the day complete
Guide dogs took centre stage at a wedding in City Hall, Cardiff. Happy couple Katie Thole and
Paul Meeks shared the limelight with their black labradors Niven and Upton as they exchanged vows. A third guide dog, Chelsea, accompanied one of the bridesmaids, Nicki Cockburn. The bride’s father, Terry Thole, said: “The dogs are their family – it wouldn’t have been a wedding without them.”
Included here is a photograph of the bride, groom, bridesmaids and guide dogs at the wedding.
++Guide Dogs forges new guidance for police officers
Guide dog owners whose dogs have been attacked will get compassionate and effective support, thanks to new legislation agreed between Guide Dogs and the Association of Chief Police Officers.
The Service Level Agreement was put together with the help of North Wales and
Northamptonshire police forces and recognises the devastating impact attacks on assistance dogs have on their owners’ lives. From now on, a named officer will be assigned to the case and the victim will be recorded as vulnerable, ensuring investigations are tailored around their needs.
Deputy Chief Constable Gareth Pritchard of North Wales Police and National Policing Lead for
Dangerous Dogs says: “Police forces now have the opportunity to improve how we deal with such traumatic incidents.”
Included here is a photograph of a guide dog in harness.
++“Royal” launch for talking bus service…
Arriva North East have launched their brand new Sapphire talking bus service on the Newcastle upon Tyne to New Biggin by the Sea routes. The X21 and X22 services were launched by lookalikes of Prince Charles and the Queen. By the end of 2014 Arriva North East planned to launch a further 18 buses in the Darlington area. Guide Dogs’ Community Engagement Officer,
Linda Oliver, said: “There are currently very few talking buses in the North East so the investment by Arriva in these new buses is very welcome.”
Included here is a photograph of the Prince Charles and Queen lookalikes at the launch.
++...and the real thing in Reading
Last year, Her Majesty The Queen officially re-opened Reading station 25 years after she originally opened it with the Duke of Edinburgh in 1989. Queen Elizabeth was joined by numerous rail workers, and officials instrumental in the redevelopment of the station.
Over the last year, representatives from Guide Dogs and RNIB have been meeting with Network
Rail to advise on the accessibility of the future station. After being shown around the old station,
Community Engagement Officer Joel Young suggested that tactile paving at the edge of platforms would be better for blind and partially sighted people, as would clearer signage. Network Rail took the advice on board, and have incorporated it into the design of the new station.
Included here is a photograph of the Queen meeting people at the re-opening of Reading station.
In brief

++Guide dog puppy meets Strictly stars
You never know who you’ll meet puppy walking! Teddy and his puppy walker Gill from Cambridge met Strictly Come Dancing stars Vincent and Flavia at the theatre in Norwich.
Included here is a photograph of Flavia and Teddy.
++Zipping the high wire in Wales
Janice Roberts, from Swansea, had planned to watch her husband ride on a 500ft-high zip wire but, when he was ruled out of the ride on health grounds, she bravely took his place. “I could feel my heart thumping,” said Janice, “and when we finally got going I’m sure it missed a few beats.”
Thirty fundraisers flew down the zip wire at Zip World, Bethesda, raising a total of £5,385 for
Guide Dogs Cymru.
Included here is a photograph of Janice Roberts riding on the zip wire.
++Island meeting
Guide dog owner Tom McInulty attended the inaugural meeting of a new Macular Support Group in Guernsey. Tom, who is Group Support and Development Manager at the Macular Society, was delighted to introduce his guide dog, Brunel, to Dame Mary Perkins, founder of Specsavers.
Included here is a photograph of Tom McInulty, his guide dog Brunel and Dame Mary Perkins.
++Verna and Barney win dressage competition
64-year-old guide dog owner Verna Clifford got the bug for horse riding more than 16 years ago, winning national and regional competitions. Most recently Verna competed with her horse Barney in last year’s national dressage competition at Harpbury college, Gloucester, where she won in her category. Verna says: “I’m very humbled and grateful for everyone that helped me get here.”
Included here is a photograph of Verna Clifford and Barney.
++Guide dog owner scoops award
Guide dog owner Brian Stalley was pleasantly surprised to win an award for his dedicated service to the charity DEBRA. Brian has volunteered at his local branch for over 15 years, and won the award in recognition of his long standing service. A few months later Brian was also nominated for the Retailers Association charity awards, to recognise his commitment to the charity.
Included here is a photograph of Brian Stalley and his guide dog.
++Visit from the Duke of Kent and Lady Astor
After a 10-year break, Guide Dogs was back at the Kent county show for its 50th anniversary last year. The Duke of Kent and Lady Astor of Hever opened the event and visited Guide Dogs’ stand, chatting to guide dog owners and staff. The day was a great success, and lots of people inquired into volunteering with us.
Included here is a photograph of the Duke of Kent visiting the Guide Dogs stand.
++Taking the sensory challenge
Newcastle Mobility Team challenged the public with their sensory event, as part of the team open day. The event, led by volunteers, saw participants undertaking activities with blindfolds and
“simspecs”, which simulate various eye conditions. Everyone was very interested to see how they scored and it really increased people’s understanding of the challenges faced by people with sight loss.
Included here is a photograph of Lucy Prudhoe, a new member of Guide Dogs staff, taking the challenge.
++Young Knights support Guide Dogs
In a great show of support for Guide Dogs, the young members of Stratford Town Knights football team chose to display our logo on their kit. They’ve been inspired by Sean Hewlett, whose mum
Kim is a puppy walker.

Included here is a photograph of Stratford Town Knights football team. Sean Hewlett is in the front row, with his arm around Gilly, a guide dog puppy.
[Back to contents]
++View from the top
I’m proud to work for an organisation that’s been enabling people with sight loss to get out and about for well over 80 years. I’m even more proud that we’re really making headway with our goal to help many thousands more people over the coming years.
In the autumn, we made history with the launch of our Cities Unlocked programme, combining the expertise of Guide Dogs, Microsoft and other organisations to make urban areas more accessible and enjoyable for people with sight loss. Getting around our cities is a nerve-wracking experience for too many people but Cities Unlocked is showing how we can take much of that stress and anxiety out of navigating our urban spaces. You can read more about it in our special feature later in the magazine.
++“That’s amazing” – physicist and TV presenter, Professor Brian Cox, tries the Cities Unlocked prototype headset
Included here is a photograph of Professor Brian Cox trying the headset.
++We’re also looking to the future through Friends of Guide Dogs, an exciting new way for people who are blind or partially sighted – and their friends and family – to share their experiences with others who have sight loss. We’re creating a vibrant online community where people can talk to each other about the challenges they face, the solutions they’ve found, and anything else they’d like to communicate. There are lots of other benefits to being a Friend of
Guide Dogs too – read about it on page 24.
Of course, the people in whose hands the future really lies are our children and young people. As regular readers will know, in recent years Guide Dogs has been developing its services in this area. In the last edition we told you about Ben, our youngest guide dog owner (since then, he’s reached the ripe old age of 12) and I’m delighted that this year we’ll be celebrating our 100th buddy dog partnership. Buddy dogs can be invaluable to children with sight loss, enhancing their confidence and self-esteem and improving their communication and mobility skills. We’ll bring you news of our 100th partnership in the next edition of Forward.
As you’ll have read in our news pages, we had a great deal to celebrate at the end of last year, after being selected as one of the charities to benefit from ITV’s Text Santa. Raising our media profile is another key to a great future for Guide Dogs. It really helps us spread the word, and we’ll be working hard to keep stories of our life-changing partnerships appearing on your screens.
Here’s to a great 2015 and beyond!
Richard
Included here is a photograph of Richard Leaman.
[Back to contents]
++Guide Dogs in the media
TV, radio and print media are all vital in raising awareness of Guide Dogs. Here are some of our recent highlights – and it looks as though some of our dogs have been stealing the limelight!

++ITV: The Alan Titchmarsh Show
The face of Guide Dogs Week, Nathan Edge, and his guide dog Hudson appeared on The Alan
Titchmarsh Show, along with Angel, one of our Sponsor a Puppy puppies, and her puppy walker,
Donna Coy. The show’s regular pet reporters, known as the Barking Blondes, mentioned Guide
Dogs Week, as did Alan Titchmarsh, while Nathan talked about the difference Hudson has made to his life. There’s more about Guide Dogs Week on page 25.
Included here is a photograph of Donna Coy with Angel and Hudson.
++BBC One: Animal Saints and Sinners
Dual support dog Hetty and her owner Tony Brown-Griffin featured on Animal Saints and Sinners.
Viewers saw clips of Tony’s everyday life and the incredible difference Hetty’s made, as both a guide and seizure alert dog, to Tony’s safety and independence.
Included here is a photograph of Tony Brown-Griffin and Hetty.
++BBC Radio 2: The Chris Evans Show
Chris Evans and his breakfast team were smitten when Blue Peter puppy Iggy took to the airwaves during Guide Dogs Week, along with Blue Peter’s Lindsey Russell. Chris was keen to find out more about Iggy’s training. He also enjoyed plenty of cuddles with her after the show!
Included here is a photograph of Chris Evans, holding Iggy, and Lindsey Russell.
++CBBC: Newsround
Following her appearance on Radio 2, Iggy joined presenter Jenny Lawrence on the children’s news programme, along with Lindsey Russell and puppy walker Anna.
++BBC News Scotland
A group of puppy walkers and puppies from Kirkcaldy were invited to the Scottish Parliament’s
Debating Chamber by David Torrance MSP to celebrate the contribution of Guide Dogs. A round of applause prompted a few barks from the puppies – and laughter among those present for the more serious parliamentary business.
Included here is a photograph of puppy walkers, puppies and MSP’s. The caption reads: Guide dog puppies visit Scottish Parliament.
[Back to contents]
++Guide Dogs Week 2014 – a roaring success
Included here is a photograph of a statue of a lion overlooking Westminster Bridge. The caption reads: The historic lion on London’s South Bank stood out for Guide Dogs in one of our iconic harnesses.
++An enormous thank you to everyone who Stood Out for Guide Dogs in October. Guide Dogs
Week is a unique opportunity to promote our life-transforming work and raise money to help us continue it. Here are our highlights – and please put this year’s Guide Dogs Week in your diaries:
3-11 October 2015.
++Launch and Stand Out Bus Tour
We launched our brilliant Stand Out Bus Tour on 4 September at the London Transport Museum in Covent Garden.
There was a real buzz as the bus set off on its tour, which took it to cities in England, Wales,
Scotland and Northern Ireland, spreading the word about Guide Dogs and collecting thousands of signatures for our Talking Buses petition.
Included here is a photograph of the bus crossing Glasgow’s “Squinty Bridge”.

++The marvellous, the majestic and the musical
Is there no end to the originality of Guide Dogs’ volunteers, staff and supporters?
++The grand Belfast City Hall was lit up in blue and white during Guide Dogs Week.
Included here is a photograph of the exterior of Belfast City Hall lit up in blue and white.
++Guide dog owners, puppy walkers and sighted guides joined staff for a reception at the
National Assembly for Wales. Several Assembly Members showed their support.
Included here is a photograph of guide dog owners, puppy walkers, sighted guides and Assembly
Members at the reception.
++Bright yellow sheep and a giant Stand Out for Guide Dogs logo caught motorists’ eyes on the
M8 between Edinburgh and Glasgow.
Included here is a photograph of (dyed) bright yellow sheep in a field.
++Guide dog Barney co-starred in an Elvis tribute night entitled “Ain’t Nothing like a Guide Dog” organised by his owner, George Higginson, in Newcastle Under Lyme.
Included here is a photograph of an Elvis impersonator and Barney, on stage.
++Let’s Glow!
Across the UK, teams of people stood out for Guide Dogs.
++Specsavers stores across the UK celebrated dressed in neon for the day, baking “Stand Out” cakes and selling pin badges.
Included here is a photograph of the “Stand Out” cupcakes.
++Our Shrewsbury Mobility Team got the week off to a flying start in Market Square.
Included here is a photograph of people “Standing Out” for Guide Dogs in Shrewsbury.
++In Solihull, the Mayor, Ms Kate Wild, took part in a blindfold challenge at a very successful promotional day.
Included here is a photograph of Mayor Ms Kate Wild with guide dog owners.
[Back to contents]
++Making friends through My Guide
My Guide is an amazing service, giving people with sight loss the confidence to get out and about. Not just that, it can lead to some great friendships too. Meet two of our recent partnerships.
++After owning three guide dogs, 76-year-old Les, from the Wirral, took the difficult decision not to apply for another one due to health issues. Keen to help Les avoid losing his independence, staff from his local Guide Dogs mobility team asked if he would be interested in the My Guide scheme.
His partnership with My Guide volunteer and puppy walker John has been great for both of them.
Les explains: “It gets me out and about; I can do what I did with my dogs again.” John is a keen historian and new to the area and, together, they have visited local places of interest and enjoyed

chatting about the area’s history. “He’s given me so much information from his memories before he lost his sight,” says John. “It’s been fantastic and we really do get on like a house on fire.”
Included here is a photograph of Les and John walking near the Liverpool waterfront.
++Manveer, from Birmingham, has Retinitis Pigmentosa and was registered blind seven years ago. This hasn’t stopped him pursuing a successful career as a musician but recently he has faced new challenges as his sight has deteriorated. Thanks to My Guide volunteer Carole, he’s getting much-needed support.
Carole became a sighted guide after she retired. She and Manveer meet up weekly, either to go to the shops, keep medical appointments or just for a chat over coffee. She says: “He’s very easy going and we have plenty to talk about – it’s just like meeting up with a friend.” For Manveer,
Carole really is a life-saver: “I’d be at a loss without her. She’s made it possible for me to live independently.”
Included here is a photograph of Manveer and Carole in Birmingham city centre.
++Living with sight loss
Action for Blind People runs a range of free “Living with sight loss” courses around England. The courses give people with sight loss the opportunity to share their experiences, while gaining practical skills and knowledge. Guide Dogs’ mobility teams contribute to the mobility element of the course and many are also providing My Guide sessions.
For more information call 0303 1239999, e-mail comms@actionforblindpeople.org.uk or visit http://www.actionforblindpeople.org.uk
[Back to contents]
++Never too old
As nonagenarian Alice Sealeaf proves, turning 90 is no barrier to becoming a guide dog owner – not even for the first time. She’s been given a new lease of life, thanks to guide dog Rona.
Alice has seen many changes through her long life. During the Second World War, Alice worked at
Rolls Royce in Crewe as a welder making Spitfires. Later on, she worked in a nursing home and in a chip shop in her native Crosby.
Alice moved over to the Wirral eleven years ago after her late husband passed away in order to be nearer to her son, her four grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.
Perhaps the biggest change in Alice’s life came two years ago when she had to adapt to losing her sight, as a result of a combination of eye conditions. Eventually, Alice was told that the hospital could do nothing more for her sight and Alice was registered blind.
Given her age, Alice didn’t think that she would have been able to train with a guide dog. “I was surprised that I remembered all the instructions with the training,” said Alice. Her Guide Dog
Mobility Instructor Vanessa Scott said: “The training took a bit longer but Alice is a very determined lady; she doesn’t let anything stand in her way.” Now that the pair have qualified, there’s no stopping them.
“I was absolutely fed up before I got Rona but I’ve got a new life now, I don’t feel sorry for myself anymore. Rona is my eyes.”
Included here are two photographs, the first is of Alice sitting outside with Rona lying at her feet, the second is of Alice sitting indoors, with Rona sitting by her side.
++Did you know…

There’s no upper age limit for applying for a guide dog and everyone is assessed according to their individual circumstances. As long as someone is living with sight loss, has the need to get out and about and can provide the dog with the right amount of work and exercise, we will welcome their application.
Our oldest guide dog owner is currently 98 years old – his name is Robert Darney and he qualified when he was 95! Our youngest is 12-year-old Ben, who we introduced in the last edition of Forward.
[Back to contents]
++Cities Unlocked – opening up the world
Last year it was just an idea. Now it’s a very exciting reality. 3D Soundscape technology that will enable people with sight loss to make safe, enjoyable journeys across our towns and cities has been proven to work in real-world trials.
In the Spring 2014 edition of Forward, we told you about the Family Day Out Programme, exploring ways in which technology might enhance the journeys of people who were blind or partially sighted. That project has taken off in a big way and comes with a new name: Cities
Unlocked.
Our core partners are Microsoft and Future Cities Catapult, a UK government funded centre for innovation in urban environments. Together, we’ve developed the first Cities Unlocked Prototype
– a Nokia smart phone that connects wirelessly to a special headset.
The prototype technology “anchors” sounds in relation to the physical environment. This results in a breakthrough “three dimensional soundscape” which greatly enhances people’s experience of travelling through a city. When a point of interest – say, a post box – is announced, the wearer hears the announcement as though it is coming from the direction in which the post box is located relative to their own position. For example, if the post box was located to the left behind the wearer, they would hear the words “post box” coming from the back left. If they then turned towards the post box they would hear the announcement coming from directly in front of them.
The specially adapted headsets don’t stop wearers hearing sounds in the outside world. They sit in front of the ear, leaving the outer ear free to listen to other sounds, such as passing traffic or a conversation.
A bespoke “Cities Unlocked” app means the phone can be used with one hand – very important if the other hand is already working a cane or guide dog, pushing a buggy or holding a child’s hand.
On the journey this app gives the user important “real-time” information about where they are, what’s around them and transport timetabling. Once you’ve set your user preferences and route, you simply pop the phone in your pocket or bag and go about your business, receiving useful information through the headset.
Imagine the difference if you have sight loss: you’re walking through a station and your train is delayed. Through the headset you’re told about the length of the delay, the location of the nearest coffee shop and their special offer of a free tea with every cake. Once on the train, you receive information about which way to turn to get to your reserved seat and then about the locations and landmarks you’re passing as you travel – the same information as sighted people get through their eyes. It offers huge benefits to people with sight loss, enabling them to travel more confidently and spontaneously.
We’ve tested our prototype with some very positive results. The test journey involved eight participants walking to a bus stop in Reading, Berkshire, catching a bus into town, navigating to and around Reading station, catching a train to Paddington and navigating to the ticket barrier. It also involved going into a supermarket and using the app to read out products, prices and special

offers. We boosted the route with GPS, wifi and Bluetooth “beacons” attached to various items such as bus stops and shop entrances.
Four of the participants had some residual vision, while the other four had none. Four of them were guide dog owners, while three used a long cane and one relied solely on their residual vision. We collected data while the participants undertook the complex and unfamiliar journey and assessed their level of wellbeing both with and without the technology.
The results were compelling. All the participants said they would use the technology again – and they found it complemented and enhanced their existing mobility aids. They reported that it made the journey less labour-intensive, less mentally challenging, and it increased both their confidence and sense of reassurance. It had no negative impact on any of them.
There’s some way to go before this technology becomes readily available but we’ve proved it works. The next stage involves refining the technology and proving it in more real-world scenarios.
Cities Unlocked has proved that sound-based technology has the potential to transform the lives of thousands of people with sight loss and, in time, could change the way we all experience cities forever.
“It was less stressful because I was aware of my surroundings and what was around me…it made a lot of difference.” Test journey participant
++There has been huge media interest in Cities Unlocked, with BBC Radio 4’s Today programme and BBC Breakfast, among others, announcing the launch of Cities Unlocked with studio interviews and news reports. To check out the Microsoft 3D audio technology in action, visit http://www.bit.ly/1tLs6Kt
Included here is a panoramic photograph of a cityscape, illustrating the new technology.
[Back to contents]
++Frankie Thomson and guide dog Flynn
Being matched with your first guide dog is an exciting but challenging experience. For 50-yearold Frankie Thomson, who was born deaf and has no speech, the challenges were all the greater.
“I wondered a lot beforehand whether having a guide dog would be the right move for me,” says
Frankie, who communicates through British Sign Language. “But it was one of the best things I have ever done.”
Around 15 years ago, Frankie’s vision began to deteriorate due to Ushers Syndrome. Relying on others to get about left Frankie low on confidence and practically housebound.
“Being deaf means I couldn’t ask for help,” Frankie explains, “and I was scared of going out at night. Even in daytime, because of my eye condition, I found places like Waverley train station too dark and a very difficult space.”
George Anderson, Mobility Instructor for Guide Dogs, prepared Frankie for training.
“I visited Frankie once a week for about four months,” says George. “He’s a quick learner and a clever guy who used to teach children with hearing loss. We signed and finger-spelled our way through the process.”
George and Guide Dogs Mobility Instructor Juliette Jones introduced Frankie to Flynn, whose experience with a previous owner proved useful as he learned to work without vocal commands.

“It was definitely worth it,” says Frankie. “Flynn has become my best friend, really.”
Previously, Frankie was limited to one or two short daytime walks around his home. Now, he makes regular jaunts to the gym, shops, and nearby café.
“I can’t believe the weight I’ve lost just from being able to go around on my own,” Frankie adds.
“I can do my own shopping, everything, and I’m in the gym a few times a week, as well.
“My mother lives in Inverness and someone else had to join me on a visit. Now, with Flynn, we sail right on through the station. Flynn knows the way and I don’t have to think about it.”
There is no question that for Frankie, a year into their partnership, guide dog Flynn is very much a life-changer.
“When I had no mobility, my confidence was low. Now my confidence is much better and I feel happier.
“I would never go out before, except for one or two places. Now I would go anywhere. I love
Flynn! It’s all changed and it’s all because of Guide Dogs and guide dog Flynn.”
Included here are two photographs of Frankie, in the first he’s receiving the baton in the
Commonwealth Games baton relay, in the second he’s carrying the baton along the street.
[Back to contents]
++On the campaign trail
Over the last few months we’ve been particularly busy with the Talking Buses campaign. We’re calling for audio visual next and final stop announcements (AV) on board all new buses to help passengers travel with confidence. Here’s a rundown of the top Talking Buses news since
September:
++Talking Buses Petition
During September a big yellow bus toured the UK to promote Guide Dogs Week. On board the bus was a roving Talking Buses petition which collected nearly 10,000 signatures of support for the campaign which were delivered to 10 Downing Street.
Included here is a photograph of the bus on the campaign trail.
++On the road to a Destination Unknown
In October we released the “Destination Unknown” report, revealing a shocking 7 out of 10 bus passengers with sight loss have been forgotten by a bus driver who was asked to announce their stop, and nearly two thirds (65 per cent) had missed their stop at least once in the last six months.
Included here is a photograph of the front cover of the “Destination Unknown” report.
++Party conference success!
Also during September we took our message to the political party conferences. MP’s were invited to step into the shoes of a bus driver as they tried to remember all the destinations of their passengers – a really effective way of showing how useful AV on board buses can be for drivers as well as passengers.
Included here is a photograph of campaigners attending a party political conference.
++Talking Buses with the Treasury
We asked the Chancellor, George Osborne, to support Talking Buses in the December autumn statement by allocating a fund for the installation of AV. Hundreds of supporters helped by e-

mailing MP’s or tweeting George Osborne. Our request was also backed by several other charities, bus user groups and bus companies.
Included here is a photograph of campaigners outside 10 Downing Street.
We couldn’t have achieved all this without the support of our amazing campaigners. Thank you to everyone who took action last year. Visit http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/talkingbuses for more information about how you can help the campaign in 2015.
++The General Election is fast approaching and, as a charity, Guide Dogs must be politically neutral at all times. Charity law is clear that we mustn’t give support to any political party or candidate. If you’re active in politics, please remember that guide dogs and puppies must not be used for advertising purposes, especially not politically. For questions contact publicaffairs@guidedogs.org.uk
[Back to contents]
++Guide Dogs Annual Awards 2014
In partnership with Microsoft Services
Held in the glamorous surroundings of the London Hilton on Park Lane, the Guide Dogs Annual
Awards, in partnership with Microsoft, celebrated all that’s great about Guide Dogs. During an unforgettable evening, guests heard the inspirational stories of the people – and dogs of course – behind the awards. And the winners are…
++Inspirational Guide Dog Owner Award, in partnership with Microsoft – Verity Smith
Microsoft Services
Voted for by Daily Mail readers, this award goes to a guide dog owner who is truly inspiring, and you couldn’t get a better example of that than Verity. She inspires people wherever she goes – from informal talks in primary schools to campaigning for the rights of blind people in Sweden,
France and Brazil. Verity has never let the total loss of sight interrupt her life and looks for the positive in everything she does.
Included here is a photograph of Verity Smith and her guide dog.
++Guide Dog of the Year Award – Life Changing – Monica McGill and Waffle
Specsavers
Waffle has genuinely made a life-changing difference to Monica. As Monica’s best friend and companion, she has saved Monica from a life of fear, darkness and depression. Now she feels liberated, able to plan a career, make friends, go to hospital alone and take her first holiday in 13 years
Included here is a photograph of Monica McGill and Waffle.
++Guide Dog of the Year Award – Beyond the Call of Duty – Imi Godwin and Laila
Specsavers
Laila has been 17-year-old Imi’s guide and best friend for two years and really does go beyond the call of duty. She intuitively seems to recognise when Imi is about to go into a panic attack
(where her body freezes) and alerts her. If the panic attack does take over, she will lick Imi until
Imi begins to recover and can respond to her.

Included here is a photograph of Imi Godwin and Laila.
++Young Person’s Achievement Award in association with Blind Children UK – Nathan Edge
20-year-old Nathan has become a highly motivated volunteer and fundraiser since becoming a guide dog owner. He has exceeded his £5,000 target to name a puppy and takes part in media and speaker activities, including being part of the successful Charity of the Year pitch to
Nottingham Trent Students Union. He’s a deserving winner of this award for blind and partially sighted people aged between 14 and 25, who have achieved great things with the support of
Guide Dogs or Blind Children UK.
Included here is a photograph of Nathan Edge and his guide dog.
++My Guide Partnership Award, in partnership with Eukanuba – Orrlene McMillen and Olga
Mokaganya
Eukanuba
This new award is for a My Guide partnership – where a blind or partially sighted person is partnered with a specially trained volunteer – that has been mutually beneficial. Olga had completely lost the confidence to go out and about on her own but that all changed when she met
Orrlene. She now feels she has got her life back, while Orrlene feels a real sense of achievement for helping change Olga’s life for the better.
Included here is a photograph of Orrlene and Olga.
++Collaboration of the Year Award – Northamptonshire Police
This award is for an individual or organisation that has worked successfully with us to improve the lives of people with sight loss. Chief Inspector Dave Lawson from Northamptonshire Police has worked with us to establish a Service Level Agreement which encourages and enables forces across the UK to support Guide Dogs in our campaign against dog attacks on guide dogs.
Included here is a photograph of a police officer standing in front of a patrol car.
++Breaking Down Barriers Award – Nottingham City Transport
Nottingham City Transport are breaking down the barriers that prevent people who are blind or partially sighted from getting out and about on their own terms. All 800 drivers have received My
Guide sighted guide training and are well on the way to their whole fleet being fitted with audiovisual information by 2016.
Included here is a photograph of a bus driver talking to a passenger.
++Thank you
Microsoft Services
Specsavers
Eukanuba
We are very grateful to all our sponsors, and especially our Platinum sponsor, Microsoft, and Gold sponsors, Specsavers and Eukanuba, who helped make the evening such a great success. Special thanks to all our guests, who took part in the fundraising activity on the night, helping us raise thousands of pounds for our life-changing work.
++As we celebrate the amazing success of our 2014 Annual Awards, we’re already looking forward to this year’s illustrious event. If you’re interested in sponsoring the event, buying a table or would like to offer a prize for our auction, please e-mail kerry.hemmings@guidedogs.org.uk or call 0118 9838392.
To read more about the awards, please visit http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/awards

++Guide Dogs People Awards 2014
The Birmingham Botanical Gardens provided the backdrop to the People Awards, which recognise the staff and volunteers who best put our values into action. The three overall winners were:
++Overall Volunteer of the Year – John Owens, for his dedication and commitment, driving, delivering and setting up and taking down equipment at events.
Included here is a photograph of John Owens receiving his award.
++Overall Younger Volunteer of the Year – Charlotte Stevenson, who at age 19 is a superb role model for people with sight loss. She’s part of a local fundraising group, helps with campaigns and media and was on our Guide Dogs Week steering group.
Included here is a photograph of Charlotte Stevenson receiving her award.
++Overall Staff Member of the Year – Liverpool Mobility Team, for their customer focus, “can do” attitude, consistently high standard of guide dogs and the way they make volunteers feel part of the team.
Included here is a photograph of the Liverpool Mobility Team receiving their award.
++To read more about all the winners, please visit http://www.guidedogs.org.uk
[Back to contents]
++Volunteers – the lifeblood of Guide Dogs
++You spoke, we listened
Volunteers making a difference
Guide Dogs’ volunteers make an incredible contribution to our life-changing work. In fact, we couldn’t do it without them.
We wanted to find out just what a difference volunteering makes to Guide Dogs. So, in 2012 we undertook our largest ever piece of research into our volunteer programme. The Volunteer
Impact Assessment is designed by the Institute of Volunteer Research to assess the difference volunteering makes to an organisation, its clients, staff and volunteers.
++We discovered some simple facts:
 74 per cent of our volunteers are female.
 We have fewer students and unemployed volunteers than other charities of a similar size.
 Our volunteer body is more dynamic than it was in 2008 – 64 per cent of our volunteers have joined us in the last five years (compared to 47 per cent in 2008).
Volunteers and staff also identified key areas for us to work on. These included looking at how we communicate with our volunteers; how we recognise their amazing work; the training we give them; and how diverse their backgrounds are. Here are some examples of what we’ve done in these areas so far:
 All new starters now have a named staff member as a contact.
 Local team newsletters are now mailed out with Forward to help join up our communications.
 Our volunteer dog boarders provide essential support to local mobility teams by looking after guide dogs in training. In response to feedback from boarders we’ve developed a training programme which provides ongoing support for all boarders of adult dogs and tells them who to go to for the support they need.

The Impact Assessment will be re-run in spring 2015 to find out how we’re doing. We’ll work hard with each team to prioritise the information they need to find out – one of the lessons learnt was the need to reduce the length of the survey. Once again, through our Volunteer Voice groups, we’ve asked volunteers what they would like to be investigated. The survey, along with other feedback, has really helped us identify what we do well and what we need to change.
Included here is a photograph of two volunteers assisting on a street collection.
++Investing in Volunteers is coming soon to Guide Dogs…
In 2015, as a demonstration of our commitment to volunteering, we’re working towards achieving the Investing in Volunteers quality standard. There are many benefits to this – for instance, we hope it will enhance our volunteers’ experience and encourage more people to volunteer with
Guide Dogs.
Guide Dogs will be assessed against nine criteria. These cover topics like volunteer recruitment, training, resources, support and recognition. As part of the assessment process an assessor from
Investing in Volunteers will interview staff, volunteers and trustees. We’ll keep you posted on our progress.
[Back to contents]
++40 years 40 puppies
Volunteer puppy walkers are amazing people. They welcome a young guide dog puppy into their home and take care of the puppy for the first 12 months of its young life. For some, it becomes a passion that lasts a lifetime.
++Madge Nightingale, from Great Barr, has been puppy walking for 33 years, after hearing about it on her local radio station. She’s now on her 40th puppy.
Among her puppies there have been 26 working guide dogs, a stud dog, a buddy dog for a child with sight loss and one who was re-trained as a police dog.
Madge says: “It is a fantastic job because you know you’ve done your bit to help a dog bring independence and mobility for a blind or partially sighted person.”
++In Durris, Scotland, Angus Adams has recently celebrated not only his 80th birthday but also
40 years of puppy walking. He and his wife Eleanore say that puppy walking keeps them young – and they have no intention of stopping just yet.
Eleanore says: “I love getting new puppies and seeing them develop. The worst bit is when they go, but we know they’re going to do a good job.”
++Do you have what it takes to become a puppy walker?
We’re always looking for more amazing volunteers like Madge and Angus, who can care for a guide dog puppy for the first year of its life. You’ll need to be home for the majority of the day and be able to take the puppy out and about with you into many different environments. Please call 0845 3717771 or visit http://www.guidedogs.org.uk to find out more.
Included here are two photographs, the first is of Angus and Eleanore Adams with eight trainee guide dogs, courtesy of the Press and Journal. The second photograph is of Madge Nightingale and two guide dog puppies.
[Back to contents]
++Friends of Guide Dogs

Guide dog owner Georgia Collins introduces Friends of Guide Dogs, an exciting new way for people to share experiences of sight loss.
If someone had told me nine years ago that I’d be travelling around happily and independently with a guide dog by my side, I may not have believed them. Due to a hereditary condition, at the age of 13 I lost my sight. Within three months I went from having fairly good partial vision, to light and dark perception that has a mind of its own.
At that time, when I was angry, upset, and confused about how I was going to live my life as a blind person, I would’ve loved somewhere to turn to for valuable advice, as well as a place for my friends and family to ask questions and explore this new situation we found ourselves in. It can be difficult for people to watch their loved one go through a tough situation, and they have many questions they may be afraid to ask. We all have our different experiences, so it’s great to be able to share the ups and downs of being visually impaired, and helping other people in the process is always a great thing to be able to do.
Friends of Guide Dogs is a new way of sharing your experiences with other people who have sight loss, including other guide dog owners. It’s free to join and couldn’t be easier. I now have access to an online community to talk to other people in the same position as me. Being responsible for a guide dog isn’t always easy, for instance; there’ll be times when you want to cry, laugh, and even wish the floor would swallow you because your dog just burped in front of a whole train carriage! But it’s much better if you can experience all these things with other people who are in the same boat.
The scheme isn’t restricted to people who are visually impaired – friends and family are welcome to sign up too.
++Visit http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/friends and fill out the short form and you’ll also be entered into a prize draw to win a weekend break for two – or call your local team on 0845
3727499.
++Vision Hotels are running an exclusive offer for those who sign up to Friends of Guide Dogs.
Book two nights at any of their three hotels from only £89 per person including dinner and breakfast, or book the super saver offer arriving on Monday for four nights costing £159 per person. (Valid for stays until 1 March 2015.) Find out more at http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/friends
Included here are two photographs, the first is of Georgia Collins and her guide dog, the second is of a leaflet advertising Friends of Guide Dogs.
[Back to contents]
++A poodle with a transatlantic pedigree
One of the keys to a first-class guide dog service is our breeding programme.
Dave Stanton is Guide Dogs’ Breed Stock Manager. It’s his job to oversee the 290 brood bitches and 85 stud dogs who are “mums and dads” to all our guide dog puppies.
Collaboration is key in maintaining the highest possible standards. That can involve travelling to guide dog training schools overseas. And it’s not just humans taking the plane - there are some very special canine travellers too.
Over the years we have tried various new breeds and one of the more successful has involved crossing a standard poodle with a labrador. Poodles have low-shedding coats, making them more suitable for people with respiratory problems and allergies. However, as Dave explains: “Poodles

as a “pure” breed can be too highly strung, with higher levels of distraction. By crossing them with an even-tempered labrador, we get the best of both breeds.”
Our poodle stud dog, Pringle, has had six litters of puppies, many of which are well on course to becoming successful guide dogs. Having just one poodle leaves the breeding programme vulnerable, so Dave set out to acquire another one. His search led him to Canada – twice.
Like Guide Dogs in the UK, the Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides is a member of the
International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF), which encourages collaboration among its member organisations. Having used poodles on their breeding programme for many years, the Lions
Foundation has a well-established gene pool, meaning a much greater chance of producing dogs with the right temperament.
Pringle was bred by the Lions Foundation and joined Guide Dogs’ breeding programme in April
2013. A year later Dave went back to Canada and selected Ulster: “He caught my eye as he was such a biddable lad, and clearly enjoyed being out working around the town. We put him through several tests and he passed them all with flying colours!”
Pringle and Ulster have been “paid for” through an exchange of breeding stock – some of our labradors are now part of the Lions Foundation breeding programme, including Tommy and offspring.
Dave says: “Collaboration with IGDF member organisations is a massive part of what we do.
We’re all trying to breed similar types temperamentally and we’re all having great success with it.”
It’s early days for Ulster but we’re looking forward to seeing some of his offspring qualifying as working guide dogs in the next couple of years.
Included here are two photographs, the first is of Dave with Ulster, the second is of Tommy and his offspring.
[Back to contents]
++Giving the gift of sight
Christine Pye and her mother, Yvonne, shared a love of guide dogs. They also believed that one of the greatest gifts we have is sight. Leaving a gift in their Wills is their way of giving sight through a guide dog.
Christine explains: “Mum loved dogs and her heart melted whenever she saw a guide dog.” In fact during Yvonne’s lifetime, she raised enough money herself to name three guide dogs.
After Yvonne’s death, Christine started a Tribute Fund in her mum’s memory, with donations made to Guide Dogs in lieu of flowers at the funeral. There was only ever going to be one name chosen for their first guide dog puppy – Rex. Christine explains why: “When Mum was five, she had a very bad accident and spent the next five years lying on her back in hospital. When she came out, her mother had remarried, she had new siblings, no friends and no education. Her only friend was her pet German shepherd, Rex.”
Thanks to the gift left in Yvonne’s Will, Guide Dogs has named a German shepherd Rex. Christine says: “Mum would be so proud. I’m sure she knows that her first, beautiful German shepherd lives again.”
Inspired by her mother’s legacy, Christine is leaving enough money in her Will to name three more guide dog puppies in memory of her own pet dogs. “I love animals and I’m so glad my money can go to a dog that will be someone’s eyes,” she says.

Included here is a photograph of Christine with Rex and his puppy walker, Liesl Hadley.
++Christine has featured in the Telegraph as part of our campaign to raise awareness of the importance of gifts in Wills. She’s joined by actress and writer Arabella Weir, who is writing six features for the Telegraph’s Weekend magazine following the work of Guide Dogs. As part of her journey, she visited our National Breeding Centre, where she met lots of gorgeous puppies. She said: “They may look cute but these puppies will go on to change the lives of people with sight loss. I was astonished to learn that two out of every three guide dogs simply would not be there if it weren’t for gifts in Wills.”
++To check out our video made in partnership with the Telegraph, please visit http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/giftsinwills
Included here is a photograph of Arabella Weir meeting a guide dog-to-be.
[Back to contents]
++In memory
++Members of the Tenby and Pembrokeshire branch announce with great sadness the death of
Ralph Rich in November 2013. Ralph was the husband of guide dog owner and branch secretary
Eva, and was an avid fundraiser, especially since his retirement seven years ago. He could often be seen holding a collection box or helping on the weekly stalls on Saundersfoot Harbour during the summer months, as well as driving Eva and her many guide dogs to give talks and support events throughout Pembrokeshire. Donations in Ralph’s memory for Guide Dogs Cymru totalled
£2,000, proving the high esteem in which he was held.
++We are sad to announce the death of Margaret Eaton MBE, who died last August in Hereford
Hospital after a short illness. As well as spending many years abroad with the Red Cross,
Margaret was chairman, secretary, trading secretary and collecting box co-ordinator for the
Malvern and Ledbury branch for countless years. Her contribution and her familiar face will be sorely missed.
++With regret we announce the death of Brian Buckland, leader of Sainsbury’s Frome store’s fundraising group. Brian masterminded charity events over a year to raise money for Guide Dogs totalling around £8,000. He did this whilst undergoing cancer treatment but always attended the events with a smile. Unfortunately he lost his brave fight and died last September. He will be greatly missed by family, friends and the Warminster and Westbury Wilts branch. A dog will be named Brian in honour of him.
++Tributes have been paid to Steve Lambert, who passed away in June. Steve gave 31 years’ service to Guide Dogs, joining as a trainee instructor in Bolton and rising to become North West
Regional Controller in the 1970’s. He was admired by the many staff and guide dog owners who passed through Bolton during those decades. He was a strong figurehead and a generous engaging mentor for many forging careers in the UK and abroad with Guide Dogs. Steve was passionate about Guide Dogs and spoke with real affection about the people he met during his long career. In retirement, he often cited joining Guide Dogs as one of the most important and enjoyable decisions of his life. Steve will be sadly missed by many in the guide dog community across the world.
Included here is a photograph of Steve Lambert.
++The Whitby Branch are sorry to announce that Betty Wilson, a founder member of the branch, died peacefully in hospital in July at the age of 91.
In October 1983, Betty and her husband, Ray, together with a few other local people, held the first meeting at which the branch was established. She has been associated with us since then,

and we were pleased to be able to celebrate her love of life, along with other friends at her funeral.
We shall miss Betty, as well as her scones, which always lifted our spirits at fundraising events when the weather was poor!
Included here is a photograph of Betty Wilson.
++We are sad to announce the death of Nigel Dunt, aged 54, of Menai Bridge, Anglesey. Nigel and his guide dog Denby were wonderful ambassadors for Guide Dogs Cymru and did much to raise awareness and funds in Wales. In 2013 they went up Snowdon for the Four Legs Tour, resulting in breathtaking pictures that are still used on posters today. Nigel became housebound after losing his sight due to diabetes, but Denby restored his confidence and independence. They were kindred spirits – both big and strong, even sharing a birthday. Sincere condolences to wife
Lucy and their two young children.
Included here is a photograph of Nigel Dunt and his guide dog Denby.
++With great sadness we announce the death in August of Tom Muldowney, a caring, compassionate man who was committed to improving the lives of blind and partially sighted people. During his 18 years with Guide Dogs he was responsible for the training of rehabilitation officers and the development of Guide Dogs’ services, both nationally and internationally. Notable was his contribution to our knowledge of the emotional needs of blind and partially sighted people. Tom was a keen golfer with a slice second to none! He was also an accomplished guitar player with an eclectic taste in music ranging from Bob Dylan to Celtic Connections. Only a few of us were fortunate enough to taste the fruits of his other interest, baking. Tom enjoyed life to the full and he regarded himself as being “the luckiest guy on the planet”, having met and married
Kath, his wife of many years. Tom’s untimely death has been keenly felt by his family, friends and colleagues, all of whom are the richer for having known him.
[Back to contents]
++It may still be chilly outside but perhaps that’s the perfect time to start planning your holiday.
A self-catering cottage holiday can be very attractive – even more so when you’re also supporting
Guide Dogs. cottages4you works with Guide Dogs to raise funds that help us change the lives of people with sight loss. They make a donation of 10 per cent of the cost of the holiday cottage for each booking made through their own Guide Dogs dedicated website.
There are thousands of properties to choose from in the UK, Ireland, France and Italy – farmhouses and gîtes, thatched cottages and castles – and they’re also available for short breaks.
If you’re a guide dog owner or have a pet dog, a key attraction is that many of the properties accept canine friends too.
++Visit http://www.chooseacottage.co.uk/gdb to find out more, or call 0845 2681762 and quote
“Guide Dogs”.
Included here is the cottages4you logo and two photographs of holiday cottages.
[Back to contents]
++Thanks to our supporters
I’m always incredibly impressed by the energy our supporters put into raising money for Guide
Dogs. You run marathons, climb mountains, swim, cycle, zipwire, walk, golf, and even walk on

fire! That’s before we even start on the sheer effort it takes to organise events and collections, and run fundraising groups and branches. Your dedication really is amazing and I know you do it because you all understand exactly how our services transform the lives of people with sight loss.
You are a phenomenal group of people and I just can’t thank you enough for what you do. Have a great 2015!
Jayne George
Director of Fundraising and Marketing
++Staff at energy company Energia have raised nearly £30,000, to be divided between Guide
Dogs Northern Ireland and Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind. Alan Mulcahy explains: “We chose
Guide Dogs because they do such amazing work changing people’s lives. While some of the fundraising events, such as firewalking, required participants to be barking mad, we’ve had a great time over the last year.”
Included here is a photograph of Energia staff presenting a cheque to Guide Dogs.
++Mark and Carrie Davies gave a donation of £200 from their wedding list when they married last May. Mark’s guide dog Vince thoroughly enjoyed the day, as did everyone else.
Included here is a photograph of Mark and Carrie Davies with Vince on their wedding day.
++Inspired by their My Guide training, members of Preston fundraising group completed a 21mile “Walk of Faith”, raising £4,253.38. Volunteers walked in pairs, with one wearing a blindfold and the other guiding. Organiser Andy Lee says: “Towards the end we were all tired but the amazing sight of seven guide dogs lined up really spurred us on.”
Included here is a photograph of Preston fundraising group taking part in their “Walk of Faith”.
++There’s nothing like a hard physical challenge in the name of fundraising: Ian Cuthbert ran a personal best in Liverpool’s “Rock ’n’ Roll” Half Marathon, raising £466; Karen Piotr completed the
25-mile Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge, raising £1,280 towards her third puppy; puppy walker
Beverley Kempson swam the icy depths of Loch Lomond, raising £1,453; and Steve Bates cycled
1,040 miles from Lands End to John O’Groats, raising £1,342.
Included here are two photographs, the first is of Ian Cuthbert at the Half Marathon, the second is of Karen Piotr on the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge.
++There were plenty of group sporting events too: a fishing competition at KC Fisheries,
Hartlebury, organised by volunteer Marie Court and John Butler from HSBC, raised £1,202; staff and volunteers from Atherton Guide Dog Training School completed the Morecambe Bay Walk with Queen’s Guide to the Sands, Cedric Robinson, raising £500; the Old Smithy Guide Dog
Cricket Club have raised £850; the Newcastle Mobility Team’s Blind Drive raised over £6,000; the
Pagelsham Clay Pigeon Club raised £7,000 at their 12th annual clay pigeon shoot; and the
Golfers Guide Dog Society’s event at Tavistock Golf Club raised just over £3,000 and was attended by 88 golfers and guide dog puppy Eddie, who the society is sponsoring.
Included here are six photographs. The first is of the fishing competition at KC Fisheries, the second is of the Pagelsham Clay Pigeon Club, the third is of the Old Smithy Guide Dog Cricket
Club, the fourth is of the Newcastle Mobility Team’s Blind Drive, the fifth is of Atherton Guide Dog
Training School staff and volunteers at Morecambe Bay and the last is of the Golfers Guide Dog
Society’s event.
++Since their records started in 1967, Lincoln branch have raised a staggering £1 million. What a fantastic achievement from such a dedicated branch.
++Students at Weston College have raised £5,000, enough to name a guide dog puppy – Weston of course. Weston’s puppy walker, Linda Jones, works at the college.
++Puppy walkers, guide dog owners, family and friends helped Leeds and district branch raise nearly £1,363 with a stall, tombola and street collection in Otley.

++Since its launch 18 months ago, the Shakespeare’s Puppies Appeal has raised £35,000, enough to name four puppies, with another six planned. Volunteer Jackie Horton has led the appeal, supported by Paralympic gold medallist James Roe. The money has all been raised in the
Stratford-upon-Avon area, and the puppies have been puppy walked locally.
++The girls of the 1st Ivybridge, 5th Ivybridge and 1st Bittaford Rainbows decided to raise money for Guide Dogs so they could follow the progress of some young puppies. They raised
£776 by completing a sponsored circuit of hopping, skipping and jumping.
Included here is a photograph of three girls presenting a cheque to Guide Dogs.
++Children at Worth Primary School raised £1,300 through a sponsored fun run and an enterprise week. Craig Shackleton came to a school assembly with his guide dog Skipper, together with young puppy Arrow and his puppy walker.
Included here is a photograph of children at Worth Primary School presenting a cheque to Craig
Shackleton, his guide dog Skipper, puppy Arrow and his puppy walker.
++Ann De Voil has been a dedicated supporter for over 38 years. She’s walked more than 25 puppies, cared for many working and retired guide dogs, and helped raise over £2.5 million. She was guest of honour at a presentation by Leicester branch and will now enjoy a well deserved retirement.
Included here is a photograph of Ann De Voil at the presentation.
Included here is a photograph of a guide dog puppy.
++Two Sainsbury’s stores have chosen Guide Dogs as their charity of the year – for the second year running at Bexhill-on-Sea, where guide dog puppy Quinn attended a photo-call. Meanwhile, staff and customers at the Raleigh Weir store have raised £15,000. Not to be outdone, BHS in
Newcastle have raised £7,000, enabling them to sponsor and meet puppy Barney.
Included here are two photographs, the first is of staff collecting at the Bexhill-on-Sea store, the second is of staff presenting a cheque to Guide Dogs at the Raleigh Weir store.
++Perth and district branch had a sales table at the Great Kilt Run in Perth and, including sponsorship from people running for Guide Dogs, raised £460. Some of the Scottie dogs who walked at the head of each country at the start of the Commonwealth Games attended, with the
Scotland Team’s dog proudly wearing his “I’m supporting Guide Dogs” bandana.
Included here is a photograph of people at the Great Kilt Run, with the Scotland Team’s dog, who is wearing his bandana.
++Sunny weather and excellent home baking contributed to the success of the garden teas at
Pittenweem Arts Festival, which raised £482. Special guests included puppy walker Helen
McDonald with Kate and Bob Gourlay with guide dog Clyde.
Included here is a photograph of Helen McDonald with Kate and Bob Gourlay with Clyde.
++2nd Hutton Boys Brigade have been staunch supporters of Guide Dogs for more than 10 years and raised £800 through a blindfold challenge.
Included here is a photograph of members of 2nd Hutton Boys Brigade presenting a cheque to
Guide Dogs.
++Puppy walker Brenda Weaver is a regular at the Fox Hound pub in Essex, which holds a quiz every month and, last year, raised £1,000.
Included here is a photograph of Brenda Weaver and guide dog puppy with staff and customers at the Fox Hound pub.

++Alexander Millings asked family and friends to donate money rather than buying presents for his seventh birthday. Including pocket money, he raised £160. Members of Saint Albans branch were so impressed they presented him with a cuddly toy puppy.
Included here is a photograph of a guide dog puppy.
++Lifelong fundraiser 94-year-old Ellen Crocker has raised £2,500 with the help of her collection jar friend “Bertie Bassett”. Ellen was presented with an inscribed photo of a guide dog and met guide dog Pluto at a special celebration.
++Our apologies for wrongly locating Stormont School in Belfast in our Autumn edition. The school is, in fact, in Potters Bar, Hertfordshire, and we’re delighted to report they’ve now reached a fundraising total of £8,261.90 – so now have five dogs to name! Joanne Landucci, Community
Fundraiser for Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire with the Welwyn Garden City Mobility Team, said:
“The school has done this in eight months which is truly outstanding.”
Included here is a photograph of four girls and a guide dog.
++Cranmore Vets, in the Wirral, held an open day and “canine splashathon”, where canine patients were sponsored to swim in the pool, raising £1,353.
Included here is a photograph of staff at Cranmore Vets presenting a cheque to Guide Dogs.
++Wetherby fundraising branch raised £303 at their last street collection, despite inclement weather.
Included here is a dog-sized collection box at the event wearing a (human) coat to keep it dry.
[Back to contents]
++We’ll never forget
If you would like to pay tribute to a guide dog you have known, please send your tribute (up to a maximum of 25 words) to forward@guidedogs.org.uk or to Forward at Hillfields, Burghfield
Common, Reading, RG7 3YG.
Angie 24.3.00 - 3.7.14
In loving memory of Angie. Devoted guide to Rose Wallworth and retired to Edwina Jean Taylor.
Always in our hearts and thoughts. XX
Anka 21.2.07 - 9.6.14
Our beautiful Anka lost her fight against cancer aged seven. Special in every way, loved forever by Jean and Les Jordan. Missed terribly by Chelsea.
Beamer 12.3.02 - 23.8.13
Guide to Katherine Edwards, her beloved Beam-beam. Retired to and loved by Tony and Leonie
Bull. A great guy, so missed by his many friends.
Bridie 26.10.00 - 3.9.14
Retired guide dog Bridie. Thank you for five wonderful years. Will be missed and always in our hearts.
Buster 13.9.02 - 25.7.14
Adopted by us at 14 months. A loyal companion and so loved by us. Will be missed but in our hearts forever.
Charlie 4.6.07 - 6.10.14

Our handsome, loyal and sensitive boy. You left us too soon and we’ll miss you. Thank you for the last five years. Love from your family.
Daley 2.9.00 - 22.7.14
Puppy walked by Freda Gabriel, worked for eight-and-a-half years with Karen Doherty. Retired with Jill Haddow. A wonderful friend, much loved by everyone.
Damson 3.9.03 - 13.8.14
Taken suddenly and unexpectedly, still working, loyal guide and friend to Brian Beniston. Sadly missed by all. Run free big girl with Farley.
Darby 23.12.00 - 28.5.14
Our beautiful black girl, who brought us so much love. Heartbroken to say goodbye.
Della 5.5.02 - 26.6.14
My first guide dog, Della, much loved and sadly missed by all who knew her. Always in our hearts, never forgotten. RIP Della.
Della 13.5.06 - 15.9.10
Superstar loved by all who met you. Brought such joy and independence. Gone too soon but not forgotten. Brightened each day.
Dolly 13.5.06 - 7.6.14
Also known as The Diva and Dolly Day Dream. Thank you for eight years of happiness. You enriched our lives and will live in our hearts forever.
Ellie (Alma) 3.1.00 - 14.8.14
Didn’t make it as a guide dog due to her poorly hips but became a much loved part of our family.
Cutest puppy ever - we miss you.
Emma 21.7.99 - 27.3.14
Loving second guide to the late Michael Lavin. Gone to meet her dad at the rainbow bridge.
Greatly missed by everyone. Sleep tight. Love, Mum. X
Emmett 2.4.00 - 7.7.14
A wonderful and faithful first guide to Roger. Retired to family. Gently put to sleep leaving many happy memories. God bless Embones, sleep well. X
Escort 14.4.93 - 14.3.07
Puppy walked by Marjorie Fielding and wonderful loveable boy to Jenny Masters. He was simply my best boy. In retirement he was doggie friend to Penny.
Penny 5.4.03 - 17.10.13
Puppy walked by Jennifer Emmerson and guide dog to Jenny Masters. A cute, excellent guide dog, Penny vocally defended her home and partnership. So loved and missed.
Fabian 23.12.98 - 29.7.13
My first guide, May 2000 to October 2007. Retired with me, a fabulous friend and companion, you made the impossible possible. Vicky and guide dog Willow and Jeff.
Fable 17.9.00 - 20.6.14
What a character! Jekyll and Hyde personality. Adopted by puppy walker. We miss your funny little ways and will never forget you. Sleep well beautiful girl.
Fletcher 23.4.03 - 24.8.14
Didn’t qualify due to cataracts. Became beloved family pet and fundraiser with Sue and Dave
Miller. Had a fantastic character. Loved by everyone, sadly missed.
Flick 27.7.00 - 1.9.14
Adored and steadfast, Flick looked after Ace for over eight years. Calm, intelligent, careful always. A special place in my heart, dear girl.

Foster 20.11.99 - 31.7.14
Good night my little Foz, run free. Love from Nannie and Ann.
Harvey 1.1.01 - 18.5.14
Beloved third guide dog to Janet Booth. Retired early but enjoyed his retirement and long distance walks with John, including the Pennine Way. RIP Harvey.
Hatti 12.2.99 - 29.7.14
First guide to Dorothy Killick, retired in 2010, puppy walked by Yvonne and Ken Woodcock. Very much loved and missed.
Hobie 17.4.01 - 14.12.13
Didn’t quite make it as a guide dog but was a wonderful faithful pet for 12 years. Still greatly missed by the Ambler family.
Ingle 12.6.01 - 31.5.14
Guide to Dolly Allen. Puppy walkers Chris Secker and Pauleen Fretter. Loved by all on Canvey.
Run free sweet girl. Love, Mum.
Irene (Iree) 13.5.02 - 19.9.14
To my best friend and amazing guide, thank you. You leave a hollow in my heart. Sleep well my baby Iree until we are together again.
Ivan 10.4.00 - 9.10.14
We experienced life’s trials and many happy moments together. You touched everyone’s heart with your gentle nature. Goodbye dear friend, you will be sadly missed.
Jackie 25.8.01 - 13.6.14
Guide to and retired with Andrew Siddons and family. Treasured memories of our lovely big girl, caring, gentle, funny. We miss you so much sweetheart.
Josie 9.11.00 - 31.7.14
Guide to Jean, retired to Chris, Ray and family. Josie will always be in our hearts. So many happy memories to treasure.
Kola 4.12.99 - 28.4.14
Perfect first guide to Chris, six happy retirement years with the family. Loved and respected by us all. Run free our handbag-loving Kola-bola.
Lizzie 22.9.03 - 27.9.14
Lovely Lizzie, quiet golden girl. Puppy walked and rehomed to Elaine Leake. Brilliant with the puppies. The house is empty without you. Run free.
Lucy 18.3.00 - 2014
Dearest Lucy, dedicated guide to Brenda. Loved and cared for in retirement by Carol and Jay.
Passed away happy after her final swim.
Mary 14.10.99 - 31.7.14
Puppy walked by Betty and John Goodspeed. Guide and best friend to Jan Penn. A beautiful, sweet little girl who will be fondly remembered.
Minty 7.2.99 - 16.7.14
My beloved Minty, who gave me the confidence to live again. Loved forever, never to be forgotten.
Norman 11.1.02 - 23.9.14
Devoted guide and companion to Stuart Thornton. 11 years we spent together, in our hearts you live forever. God bless, rest in peace old pal.
Omah 18.3.01 - 11.9.14

Privileged to know you as guide and friend. Loved and cared for in retirement by Wendy and
John. Remembered always. Rest in peace dearest chap.
Paula 6.10.00 - 14.7.14
Puppy walked by Andy and Lynn Packer, adopted by Chris and Beryl Weeks. Gentle, loving and eager to please. Loved by many. Sadly missed.
Peggy 19.10.99 - 21.07.14
Training stopped when eight months due to leg problem. She gave us privileged pleasure and company for 14 years. A truly wonderful Labrador. A devastating loss.
Ranger 20.12.99 - 8.4.14
Guide dog to Wayne, had a special place in many people’s hearts. You’ll never be forgotten, a special friend for Orion and Wayne.
Ron 5.12.00 - 10.8.14
Ron, special and unique. There’ll never be another guide dog like you. Greatly loved by family and friends. Miss you Scoobie. Run free.
Sweep 24.12.01 - 24.4.14
Really bestest friend, great guide and loving lab. Thank you for letting me share your life. Night night Big Fella.
Tammy 17.10.00 - 28.6.14
First guide to Mike. Very much loved and missed by the Davies family. Puppy walked by the Bates family. Night night Blonde.
Taylor 29.4.01 - 3.5.14
Fantastic ambassador on his many fundraising visits. A “golden lining” to the black cloud of sight loss. Run free Puppy Dog till we meet again.
Travis 5.5.00 - 21.5.14
Guide dog to Peter, companion in retirement to Hazel (I’ll miss our long walks Trav). Sweet dreams big guy from us both, Peter and Hazel Summers.
Veda 7.4.99 - 23.7.14
First puppy, trained then handed in her notice. Home to help future puppies with retired guide dog Hooch. Loved by Mum, Dad, Hooch and everyone.
Vulcan 26.11.02 - 22.9.14
A much loved gentle dog who loved to greet you, be with you and lie at your feet. Love you forever, God bless.
Waldy 5.2.01 - 21.7.14
He returned to his puppy walkers three years ago after working for seven years. Greatly missed by Alison, Bill and Gill.
Webster 25.10.00 - 16.7.14
Guide to Vaughan. Lovable, loyal big teddy bear. A joyous 12-year partnership. It was a privilege to be loved and guided by you.
Whisper 9.3.97 - 13.8.14
Retired brood bitch. A happy, loyal and wonderful companion to Helen and Audie (deceased)
Baker. Loved and remembered always.
Yarran 8.9.99 - 21.7.14
My late husband Norman Taylor’s fourth guide dog. Retired to Carole and Alan who gave him all their love. Sadly missed, never forgotten. Love Mum Janice. X
Yorkie 30.1.02 - 8.9.14

He returned to his puppy walkers five years ago after working in South Wales. Greatly missed by
Bill and Gill and his best mate Theo.
Included here are photographs taken in various locations and in different poses of: Angie, Anka,
Beamer, Bridie, Buster, Daley, Damson, Darby, Dolly, Ellie, Emmett, Escort, Penny, Fabian, Fable,
Fletcher, Harvey, Hobie, Ingle, Irene, Jackie, Josie, Kola, Norman, Omah, Paula, Peggy, Ron,
Travis, Veda, Waldy, Webster, Whisper and Yorkie.
[Back to contents]
++What’s on?
++Crufts Birmingham NEC: 5 – 8 March
Meet our guide dogs and find out more about the difference they make to people with sight loss. http://www.crufts.org.uk
++The Telegraph Adventure and Outdoor Show
London Excel: 12 – 15 February
Dare you take the blindfold challenge to climb the show’s climbing wall? http://www.telegraphoutdoorshow.co.uk
++Brighton Marathon: 12 April
Join us for brilliant sea views and amazing atmosphere.
++BBC Gardener’s World
Birmingham NEC: 11 – 14 June
Meet our dogs, take a walk in our Sensory Tunnel and take a blindfold challenge. http://www.bbcgardenersworldlive.com
++Ride London-Surrey 100 5 August
The UK’s top cycling event: cycle 100 miles from Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, through the
Surrey hills, finishing in the Mall, London.
++The Coniston Challenge
Lake District: 19 September
A bespoke Guide Dogs event, where teams hike up the Old Man of Coniston, mountain bike through Grizedale Forest and kayak across Coniston Water.
++Annual General Meeting
Guide Dogs’ 2015 AGM will take place on Thursday 10 September. Further details will appear in the next edition of Forward.
++Searching for a challenge?
Take part in a Guide Dogs event! Visit http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/events or call 0845 6006787 for more information.
Included here is a photograph of a man holding a guide dog puppy.
[Back to contents]
++In spring and summer, many of us like visiting zoos and animal parks. These can be great fun, but how does it work for guide dog owners?
Access to animal parks for guide dogs varies, depending on the animals involved. For instance, some animals are easily startled and might hurt themselves if they heard a dog bark. Ideally all

zoos and animal parks should give details on their websites and promotional materials of the facilities they offer, but here’s some general advice for guide dog owners:
Before visiting an animal park or zoo, you should find out whether guide dogs are allowed into the attraction. If they’re not, you should ask what provisions have been made – for instance, for your dog to be kept somewhere safe while you go into the park.
If no provisions like this already exist, you should suggest that “reasonable adjustments” be made. These could include the provision of a supervised kennel or other place for your dog to wait while you’re in the park, and a sighted guide for you. There are no “blanket” rules on this it’s up to each park to make reasonable adjustments.
If the accommodation they offer for your dog doesn’t sound satisfactory to you, you can ask if they have an alternative supervised place. However, they may argue that they’ve already offered what they can, and therefore made a “reasonable adjustment” in the eyes of the law. As with any access issue, the definition of “reasonable” is open to interpretation and ultimately, if necessary, would have to be tested in court on a case-by-case basis.
Included here is a silhouette of a giraffe leaning over a guide dog.
[Back to contents]
++Letters
++A different way to fundraise
My husband John and I are both volunteers and recently we used Giveacar to donate the proceeds from the sale of our car to Guide Dogs. We found the service excellent – we rang the number, arranged a convenient time for collection and they did all the paperwork. It saved us the hassle of scrapping the car and Guide Dogs received the proceeds.
Jill Hurds
Included here is a photograph of John Hurds and their dog, standing by their car.
++Harley’s a star
I wanted to complete the 13-mile Starlight Walk before I was 30 to raise funds in memory of my friend’s father, who spent time in a local hospice before he passed away. But I never felt confident enough until I got my guide dog Harley last January. With Harley by my side, walking up to 11 miles a day isn’t unusual, so the circuit was a breeze! My two friends and I raised over
£250 for the hospice.
Kerry Singleton
++A dog in the flock
Guide dog Nell regularly attends Central Methodist Church in Aston, Rotherham, and is part of the church family. At the communion rail, Nell waited patiently for her bread, only to be ignored! Her owner Doreen Parsons asked how Nell could be included in the service. In the Methodist tradition all are welcome at the communion table. We decided that Nell is so much a part of Doreen and our church, she should be included too. She now receives the bread (not the wine!) with everyone else. Nell is delighted – and I wouldn’t be surprised if God is delighted too…
Reverend Joanne Siddall
Included here is a photograph of Nell in church.
[Back to contents]

++Thank you to rehomer Mike O’Dowd for sending in this beautiful photo of guide dog puppy
Dibble who went “gardening” after a heavy rainstorm. What do you think he might be saying?
Please send your caption idea on a postcard to Forward, Guide Dogs, Hillfields, Burghfield
Common, Reading RG7 3YG, or e-mail forward@guidedogs.org.uk with your name and address.
There’s a £10 Marks and Spencer voucher for the winner.
Included here is a photograph of Dibble, who is sitting in the garden next to a muddy hole. His nose, face and legs are covered in mud.
++The winner of the last caption competition was Mrs V Joliffe from Landford, Wiltshire, with:
“Blow tiptoe through the tulips, bouncing through bluebells is much more fun”. Congratulations – we hope you enjoy your voucher.
Included here is a photograph of Jess running through a field of bluebells.
++Competition rules
The competitions are open to anyone resident in the UK, except employees of the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association, their families and anyone connected with the competition. No purchase necessary. Proof of posting cannot be accepted as proof of delivery. No responsibility can be accepted for entries delayed, damaged or mislaid or wrongly delivered. Illegible entries will be disqualified. Only one original entry is allowed per envelope. The winners will be notified by either post or telephone and the results will be published in the next issue of the magazine. The winners must agree to the publication of their names, photographs and any publicity, if requested. In all matters concerning the competitions the Editor’s decision is final. No correspondence can be entered into. Entry implies acceptance of the rules. The closing date for the competition is 24
April 2015.
[Back to contents]
++The following are four advertisements that are presented in different places in this issue of
Forward.
++1. Are you ready for a challenge?
Hike, bike and kayak for our four-legged heroes. Register your team today!
Mountain bike through the forests of Grizedale.
Included here is a photograph of people riding mountain bikes.
Kayak along Coniston Water.
Included here is a photograph of two people in a kayak.
Hike to the summit of Old Man Coniston.
Included here is a photograph of a lady celebrating at the summit.
Celebrate with your team mates and supporters at our post race party.
Included here is a photograph of people celebrating.
Bring your team together at the Guide Dogs Coniston Adventure Team Challenge on 19
September 2015 http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/Coniston2015
Registered charity in England and Wales (209617) and in Scotland (SC038979) 7725 11/14

++2. Will you leave a gift that’s full of life?
Guide dog Pippa is there for her owner Lynette all day, every day. She’s given her the confidence to start enjoying her whole life again without relying on others. “With Pippa by my side, my friends can be my friends not my carers,” says Lynette. Please leave a gift in your Will to Guide
Dogs and help visually impaired people live every day to the full.
For a free information pack and DVD, visit http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/giftsinwills, call us on
0845 6031477 or fill in the form.
Title:
Name:
Address:
Postcode:
Phone No.:
Please return in an envelope to:
Freepost RSBC-ARYS-YATB, Gifts in Wills Team, Guide Dogs, Chippenham SN14 6NG
A15G06001
A charity registered in England and Wales (209617) and Scotland (SC038979).
Included within this promotion are various pictures of Lynette and Pippa at different times of the day.
++3. Friends of Guide Dogs
We’re constantly working towards our vision of a world in which people who are blind or partially sighted can enjoy the same freedom of movement as everyone else.
Be part of something amazing - join Friends of Guide Dogs today. Receive great special offers at the same time as shaping the future of Guide Dogs so we can focus on the issues that really matter.
Register today for free!
Phone: 0845 3727499 Visit: http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/friends
Win a weekend break *
Join us today for free as a Friend of Guide Dogs, and enter our free prize draw *
Registered charity in England and Wales (209617) and Scotland (SC038979) 7339 08/14 * T &
C’s at http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/friends
Included here is a photograph of a lady being guided by a My Guide volunteer, a lady being guided by a guide dog and a man using a long cane.
++4. Dogalogue (Registered) gifts from Guide Dogs
Last chance to shop the sale. Up to 75% off
It’s not too late to grab a bargain but hurry sale ends soon!
It’s the perfect time to get organised this year while making huge savings on our EXCLUSIVE calendars and diaries featuring our very own Guide Dog puppies. Plus get savings on a range of gifts, cards and doggy treats and toys.

Exclusive puppies calendar
75% off was £5.99 now £1.50
Plush Puppy Wheat Warmer
25% off was £11.99 now £9.00
Exclusive slimline diary
30% off was £2.99 now £1.99
Lavender gift set
30% off was £9.99 now £6.99
Talking big digit watch
25% off was £16.99 now £12.75
Dog lips toy
17% off was £5.99 now £4.99
To order please visit http://www.dogalogue.com or call 0845 3711371
Please quote code: D14G32001
100% of profits go to Guide Dogs!
Order by phone
Shop online
Guide Dogs is a working name of The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association. Registered Office:
Hillfields, Burghfield Common, Reading, Berkshire, RG7 3YG.
A company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales (291646) and a charity registered in England and Wales (209617) and Scotland (SC038979).
[Back to contents]
++This is a list of phone numbers and contact details arising from the articles in this edition of
Forward magazine.
Coniston Adventure Team Challenge
Visit: http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/Coniston2015
Gifts in Wills free information pack and DVD
Visit: http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/giftsinwills
Call: 0845 6031477
Write: Freepost RSBC-ARYS-YATB, Gifts in Wills Team, Guide Dogs, Chippenham SN14 6NG
Pavement Parking
Visit: http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/PavementParking
Call: 0800 0284348.
Living with sight loss
Call: 0303 1239999
E-mail: comms@actionforblindpeople.org.uk
Visit: http://www.actionforblindpeople.org.uk
Cities Unlocked
Visit: http://www.bit.ly/1tLs6Kt

Talking Buses campaign
Visit: http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/talkingbuses
General Election
E-mail: publicaffairs@guidedogs.org.uk
2015 Annual Awards
E-mail: kerry.hemmings@guidedogs.org.uk
Call: 0118 9838392
2014 Annual Awards
Visit: http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/awards
Guide Dogs People Awards 2014
Visit: http://www.guidedogs.org.uk
Become a puppy walker
Call: 0845 3717771
Visit: http://www.guidedogs.org.uk
Friends of Guide Dogs
Visit: http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/friends
Call: 0845 3727499
Vision Hotels offer
Visit: http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/friends
Gifts in wills video
Visit: http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/giftsinwills
Take a break, change a life
Visit: http://www.chooseacottage.co.uk/gdb
Call: 0845 2681762
We’ll never forget
E-mail: forward@guidedogs.org.uk
Write: Forward at Hillfields, Burghfield Common, Reading, RG7 3YG
Crufts
Visit: http://www.crufts.org.uk
The Telegraph Adventure and Outdoor Show
Visit: http://www.telegraphoutdoorshow.co.uk
BBC Gardener’s World
Visit: http://www.bbcgardenersworldlive.com
Searching for a challenge?
Visit: http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/events
Call: 0845 6006787
Could you be a brood bitch holder?
Call: 0845 3727432
E-mail: bshenquiries@guidedogs.org.uk
Caption competition
Write: Forward, Guide Dogs, Hillfields, Burghfield Common, Reading RG7 3YG
E-mail: forward@guidedogs.org.uk
Friends of Guide Dogs
Call: 0845 3727499

Visit: http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/friends
Free prize draw terms & conditions
Visit: http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/friends
Dogalogue
Visit: http://www.dogalogue.com
Call: 0845 3711371
[Back to contents]
++Congratulations to our new partnerships
Key: x – Crossbreed
CCR – Curly Coat Retriever
COL – Collie
FCR – Flat Coat Retriever
GR – Golden Retriever
GSD – German Shepherd Dog
IWS – Irish Water Spaniel
L – Labrador
SPIN – Spinone
STP – Standard Poodle
New partnerships are listed by mobility team. Each listing details owner, guide dog, town, breed, puppy walker and brood bitch holder. Warm congratulations to all our new qualifiers.
++Belfast
James Cunningham & Bart from Portadown GRxL, Mr & Mrs Bumpass from Newport-on-Tay,
Lorraine Harrison from Kidderminster
Coleen Falconer-Copeland & Lauren from Banbridge GRxL, Ian & Sheila Dickson from Montrose
George Foster & Yoda from Belfast L, Peter McFarland from Ballyclare, Rhiannon Hutchings from
Snitterfield
Patrick Henry & Benji from Ballymena GRxL, Sylvia Thomson from Bridge Of Don, Lorraine
Harrison from Kidderminster
Angela McCracken & Amber from Antrim L, Gordon & Fay Simpson from Forfar, David Windhaber from Northampton
Matthew McKee & Ivor from Larne GRxGSD, Carol McDonald from Edinburgh, Amanda Turner from Shrewsbury
++Birmingham
Rita Bayliss & Terri from Whitney-on-Wye LxGR, George McCaffery & Janice Boswell from
Corsham, Sally Elliott from Olney
Emma Beattie & Hector from Birmingham GRxL, Roger & Eileen Trethewey from Torquay, Ruth
Philpott from Malvern
Judy Collier & Belinda from Gloucester GRxL, S Richardson from Northallerton, Lorraine Harrison from Kidderminster
Lucy Conn & Olivia from Worcester GRxL, Carol Kimberley from Hinckley, Vanessa

Jones from Rugby
Leon Field & Lottie from Birmingham LxGR, Jean Ruff from Redcar, Erica Dowse from Coventry
Diana Hill & Doris from Gloucester L, Peter Simms from Abertillery, Sue Price from Claverdon
Lisa Jones & Kiki from Nottingham GRxL, Susan Doherty from Newport, Lorraine Johnson from
Market Harborough
Richard Little & Dublin from Redditch GRxL, Carol Edwards from Bedworth, Lindsey Watts from
Coventry
Mohammed Rashid & Solo from Birmingham GRxL, Clare Gooch from Salisbury, Molly McDonnell from Warwick
Shirley Sheridan & Taylor from Upton-Upon-Severn LxGR, John Meaden from Solihull, Katherine
Baker from Mitcheldean
Marie Taylor & Norton from Evesham GRxGSD, Donna Sutton from Birmingham, Trudy Evans from Coventry
Sana Viner & Yuma from Birmingham L, Wendy Lewin from Malvern, Sandra Hoffman from
Coventry
++Cardiff
Keith Barrett & Yalena from Bridgend L, Kairen Dawe from Paignton, Sandra Hoffman from
Coventry
Dorothy Bly & Yana from Monmouth L, Susan Brotherhood from Nottingham, Rhiannon Hutchings from Snitterfield
Nigel Carter & Nixon from Caerphilly L, Elaine Hooton from Hinckley, Caroline Lyons from
Nuneaton
Betty Coleman & Nesta from Cwmbran LxGR, Marshall McFarland from County Down
Nigel Hughes & Torch from Wrexham GRxGSD, Fran Dawson from Cambridge, Susan White from
Cambridge, Cora Blaver from Northampton
Colin Jones & Yoshi from Welshpool L, Andrew Quince from Stockton-on-Tees, Rhiannon
Hutchings from Snitterfield
James Mackay & Pudsey from Cardiff LxGR, Hugh King from Yeovil, Mary Cheesman from
Southam
++Coventry
Peter Allen & Marie from Blaby GR, Michael & Eryl Hoskins from Prenton, Marie Court from
Halesowen
Sunny Bhogal & Issac from Solihull GRxGSD, Jean Hurst from Wolverhampton, Amanda Turner from Shrewsbury
Brian Dowling & Hector from Melton Mowbray LxGR, Jemma Morley from Coalville, Tracy Twomey from Leamington Spa
David Hodgkins & Ice from Leamington Spa L, Julie Trent from Leicester, Janie Macqueen from
Fenny Compton

Clive Huntingford & Irwin from Wellingborough L, John & Mrs Beryl Hope from Gloucester, Linda
Appleton from Tewkesbury, Janie Macqueen from Fenny Compton
Lynda Jones & Highfield from Leicester GRxL, Susan Underwood from Plymouth, Natasha Brady from Northampton
Pam King & Quester from Northampton GRxL, Tracey Hope from Birmingham, Rowena Styles from Worcester
Ian McNamara & Zimba from Birmingham GRxGSD, Angela Edmunds from Exmouth, Clare
Mahoney from Bridgwater, Peter Meadows from Lutterworth
Peter Minney & Dawson from Northampton L, Susan Cowlishaw from Derby, Laraine Knott from
South Shields, Trudy Bond from Wellesbourne
Richard New & Trevor from Abington GRxL, Barry & Janet Roberts from Walsall, Lorraine Johnson from Market Harborough
Francis Ochalek & Domino from Loughborough LxGR, Nigel & Nita Cannon from Swindon, Ingrid
Moss from Warwick
Margaret Ryan & Zodiac from Wellingborough GRxGSD, Steve Ball from Coventry, Peter Meadows from Lutterworth
++Edinburgh
Shona Black & Woody from Edinburgh GRxL, Victoria Macready from Glasgow, M Whatman from
Banbury
James Christie & Layla from Arbroath LxGR, Hazel Hope from Inverurie, Erica Dowse from
Coventry
Fiona Margaret Gallagher & Eric from Crieff L, Aileen Murphy from Aberdeen, Debra Williams from
Melton Mowbray
Arlene Hall & Brandy from Dunfermline L, Graeme Danskin from Edinburgh, Linda Sheehan from
Evesham
Marie Harrower & Sandy from Oban GRxGSD, Catriona Rose from Edinburgh, Anne Cadwallader from Southam
Janette Hayworth & Yarran from Aberdeen L, Leonard Hopkins from Macduff, Paula Garden from
Bridge Of Don, Mrs Field from Warwick
Janette Kathleen Hunter & Nia from Livingston LxGR, Nicola Ireland from Blairgowrie, Sharon
Pogson from Bromsgrove
Mark Hutchison & Pippa from Dunfermline GRxL, Stephanie Plews from Tullibody, Alloa, Laura
Slinn from Rugby
Lillian McMillan & Katy from Arbroath GRxL, Anna Temple from Forres, Mr & Mrs Allen from
Worcester
David Verdun Owen & Ivan from Keith GRxGSD, John & Margaret Gibb from Aberdeen, Amanda
Turner from Shrewsbury
Avril Jane Robertson & Pablo from Kirkcaldy GRxL, Elizabeth Loudon from Saint Andrews, Laura
Slinn from Rugby
Frances Jean Short & Heather from Edinburgh L, Ann Hamilton from Carluke, Elaine Roberts from
Stourbridge

Claire Smith & Bella from Kirkcaldy L, Allister Baird from Belfast, Steve Shaw from Coalville
Binnie Taylor & Seve from Montrose L, Wendy Bruce from Inverurie, John Marchant from Milton
Keynes
Patricia Wood & Winnie from Forfar L, Catherine Reid from Strathaven, Steve Shaw from Coalville
++Exeter
Paul Atkins & Guy from Torquay L, Brian Ward from Gloucester, Philip Swallow from Warwick
Roberta Barnett & Liz from Crewkerne LxGR, Clare Rotton from Nottingham, Joyce Bartlett from
Rugby
Mary Chedgey & India from Bridgwater L, Susan Bunney from Pontypridd, Janie Macqueen from
Fenny Compton
Derek Malcolm Chivers & Laddy from Honiton GRxGRxL, Alleyne Barlow from Plymouth, Mary
Cheesman from Southam
Tony Corcoran & Freeway from Gloucester GR, Margaret Calam from Beaworthy, Sylvia Burgess from Buckingham
Sylvia Curnow & Tess from Penzance L, Bethan Crane from Torpoint, W Whiller from Plymouth,
Mr & Mrs Eriksen from Torquay, Mr & Mrs Phipps
Chris Dewfall & Maddie from Bristol GRxL, Laura Hubble from Birmingham, Ann Hubble from
Birmingham
Alan Dyte & Jeeves from Bristol GRxL, Gargi Rawat from Coventry, Rachel Bagley from Coventry
Helene Fitch & Biscuit from South Brent GRxL, David & Anne Coultrip And Howden from Banbury,
Ruth Mercer from Warwick
Ernest Gosling & Orla from Weston-Super-Mare LxGR, Jayne Morris from Port Talbot, Sally Elliott from Olney
Elizabeth Hargreaves & Scooby from Redruth GRxGRxL, Nicole Richards from Birmingham, Anita
Lamont from Telford
Ali Healey & Ivor from South Molton L, Helen Denholm-Simmonds from Stourport-On-Severn,
Janie Macqueen from Fenny Compton
Marve King & Macy from Taunton GRxL, Peter Thomas from Barry, Eve Smith from Tanworth In
Arden
James Maunsell & Mika from Newton Abbot GRxL, Graeme Morton from Broadway, William Kelso from Alcester
Joanna Shute & Fleur from Tiverton L, Alison Bamford-Elsdon from Newton Abbot, Susan Hayes from Northampton
Rose-Ellen Soper & Bobby from Saltash L, Rachel Susan Gregory from Nottingham, Philip Swallow from Warwick
Neil Stewart & Iris from Torpoint LxGR, Jenny Hopkins from Clevedon, Katherine Baker from
Mitcheldean
Rod Sutton & Yogi from Saint Agnes L, Steve Workman from Derby, Rhiannon Hutchings from
Snitterfield

Yvonne Trotter & Yazz from Cullompton LxGR, Karen Flannagan from Birmingham, Rebecca
Roberts from Warwick, Hazel Allen from Birmingham
Mark Wilson & Albert from Taunton L, Gail Saunders from Oxford, Karen Robbens from
Leamington Spa
++Glasgow
Mervyn Hendry & Ava from Cumnock L, Marjory Thom from Dumfries, David Windhaber from
Northampton
Fraser Kane & Nelson from Largs GRxL, Mr & Mrs Begg from Dundee, M Whatman from Banbury
Paul Kerr & Lester from Glasgow LxGR, Cathy Steel from Kilmarnock, Erica Dowse from Coventry
Brenda Kirkpatrick & Hovis from Dumfries GRxL, Hazel Reaper from Mid Calder, David Yarwood from Birmingham
Graham Marshall & Travis from Clackmannan GRxL, Fiona Webster from Dundee, Cath Pedreschi from Evesham
Mark McDade & Fennel from Glasgow GR, Jl Banks from Carnoustie, Sylvia Burgess from
Buckingham
Elizabeth McManus & Abbie from Motherwell GRxL, Stephanie Scott from Edinburgh, Barbara
Swain from Leamington Spa
Rubina Mooney & Cracker from Glasgow L, Lana Brand from Carnoustie, John Croll from Dundee,
Ian Hendry from Birmingham
Michelle Murphy & Zeb from Coatbridge LxLxGR, Karen Brown from Edinburgh, April Williamson from Stratford-upon-Avon
Patrick Craig O’Kane & Nellie from Greenock GRxL, Fiona Webster from Dundee, Pat Willis from
Arbroath, M Whatman from Banbury
++Hull
Robert Abey & Misty from Hull L, Anne Hutton from Cupar, Helen Bonnett from Gloucester
Diana Allen & Pickle from Spalding L, Debbie Fothergill from Thirsk
Marlene Askew & Maddie from Scunthorpe LxL, A Shute from Morpeth, April Williamson from
Stratford-upon-Avon
Mark Coxon & Thomas from Grantham GRxL, Fiona Taylor from Nottingham, Laura Slinn from
Rugby
Mavis Fisher & Nell from Lincoln GRxFCR, Clair Evans from Knaresborough, Alison Jordan from
Stafford
Laura Price & Doc from Boston LxGR, Barry & Jackie Salter from Brierley Hill, Ingrid Moss from
Warwick
Matthew Ryan-Tennyson & Mollie from Mablethorpe GSD, Peter Byrne from Liverpool, Carla
Nieuwenhuizen from Banbury
Trisha Sellers & Milly from Bridlington L, Ricky Flanagan from Belfast, Helen Bonnett from
Gloucester

++Leeds
Greg Christie & Captain from Malton LxGR, Jane Cooper from Orkney, Donna Durkan from
Newcastle upon Tyne, Alison King from Morpeth, Mr & Mrs Bayley from Malvern
Denise Dubery & Trixie from Wakefield GRxL, Karen Wardle from Ashton-Under-Lyne, Sandra
Sweetland from Stratford-upon-Avon
Caroline Flower & Rosie from Leeds L, Elizabeth Dale from Chester, Jayne Hallam from Walsall
Linda Hanson & Autumn from Bradford L, Peter Lees from Bingley, David Windhaber from
Northampton
Robin Kirkpatrick & Rolo from Leeds GRxL, Doctor Lynne Branthwaite from Whitley Bay, Lorraine
Harrison from Kidderminster
Laurence Manley & Umber from Keighley GRxFCR, Amanda Anderson from Skipton, John Rogers from Bromsgrove
Mary Naylor & Querida from Leeds LxGR, Ambrose Greenfield from York, Denise Bright from
Kidlington
Alan Oldroyd & Blake from Leeds GSD, Hilary Murray from Leyburn, Mr & Mrs Tindall from
Coventry
Graham Owen & Gypsy from Knottingley GRxGSD, Louise McLoughlin from Knutsford, Anne
Cadwallader from Southam
Susan Quinn & Zeilia from York LxLxGR, Maureen Chambers from Huddersfield, April Williamson from Stratford-upon-Avon
Craig Clarkson & Darcy from Pickering GRxL, Sophia Kupse from Bradford, Carol Mannion from
Coventry
Elvira Haeussler & Megan from Leeds GR, John Murie from Stirling, Helen Rapport from Stirling,
Pam Kimmins from Birmingham
Jeff Holt & Sam from Cleckheaton GRxGSD, Lizz Johnson from Leeds, Anne Cadwallader from
Southam
++Liverpool
Heather Billington & Nell from Wirral GRxGSD, Jane Burgess from Church Lawton, Rosemary
Jackson from Leamington Spa
Alan Booth & Sadler from Wirral L, Margaret Stanton from Bury, John Marchant from Milton
Keynes
Edward George Currin & Nash from Ellesmere Port L, Pam Cruickshank from Huntly, Caroline
Lyons from Nuneaton
Neil Eastwood & Lenny from Chester LxGR, Debbie Newman from Prescot, Philippa Skinner from
Wirral, Erica Dowse from Coventry
Christopher Gallagher & Ishka from Liverpool GRxL, Norman Frank Feely from Wirral, Simon
Hubble from Walsall
Jessica Hodgson & Elkie from Saint Helens GRxL, Mr & Mrs Bland from Burnley, Sheila Coton from
Birmingham

Heidi Louise McGeough & Coco from Wirral GRxL, June Clare from Liverpool, Elizabeth Crabtree from Blockley
Lisa Nicholas & Peter from Liverpool L, Vicky Boston from Salford, Glenda Kendrick from
Liverpool, Linda Williams from Liverpool, Ellen Summerton from Leamington Spa
Karl Thompson & Ozzy from Birkenhead LxGR, Helen Lance-Marsden from Liverpool, Clare Turton from Solihull
Marion Watts & Patch from Chester GRxL, Grant & Ailsa Armstrong from Dundee, Jeanette Piggins from Southam
Dorothy Wood & Trudy from Prescot L, Pauline Hickey from Mancot, Caroline Dempster from
Leamington Spa
++London
David Babb & Gunner from London L, Gayle Azopardi from Sittingbourne, Alison Ashley from
Daventry
Nicola Croft & Edward from London LxGR, Jim Godfrey from Manningtree, Erica Dowse from
Coventry
Toby Davey & Willow from Isleworth GRxL, Pippa Morgan from Guildford, Ruth Wood from
Coventry
John Dickinson-Lilley & Brett from London L, Lynne Dakin from Woodford Green, Mr & Mrs Cope from Birmingham
Stephen Ellis & Fleur from Hornchurch GRxL, Chris Inwood from Bognor Regis, Eve Smith from
Tanworth In Arden
Tara Haskey & Fennel from Thetford L, Barnaby Foot & Jennifer Wiggins from London, Margaret
Atkins from Billericay, Susan Hayes from Northampton
Toni Hoskins & Quiver from London GRxL, Jane Storey from Chelmsford, Rowena Styles from
Worcester
David Aprahamian Liddle & Zak from London L, Marilyn Soffe from Gillingham, Jeanette Hannon from Oldbury
Catalina Montesinos De Brooker & Callie from Carshalton L, Tracey Bishop from Chelmsford, Mr &
Mrs Poulter from Stratford-upon-Avon
Doctor Julia Schofield & Daisy from Twickenham L, Theresa Riches from Banstead, Sue Price from
Claverdon
Stephanie Talbot & Alfi from Abingdon L, Alan Pert from Reading, Jeanette Hannon from Oldbury
Alex Turner & Leeon from Hornchurch GRxL, Caroline Goddard from Guildford, Nicola Wilmot from
Kislingbury
Jacqueline Venus & Skye from Twickenham GRxGRxL, Jack & Tricia Morris from Swanley, Jeanne
Harrall from Swanley, Anita Lamont from Telford
++Maidstone
Alan Gasson & Yuri from Sittingbourne L, Heather Robson from Sittingbourne, Sandra Hoffman from Coventry

Andrew Hamilton & Deejay from Newhaven LxGR, Katie Hepworth from Maidenhead, Ingrid Moss from Warwick
Kim Kirtley & Gold from Ashford GRxGSD, Kim Stacey from Billericay, Cora Blaver from
Northampton
Karen Macgregor & Oona from Gillingham GRxL, Clifford Ellams from Maldon, Natasha Brady from
Northampton
Madleen Mann & Nero from Gravesend GRxGSD, Julia McClellan from Leatherhead, Trudy Evans from Coventry
Gary Ogden & Harper from Peacehaven GR, Ann & Tony Ridler from Luton, Sylvia Burgess from
Buckingham
Tony Pitchford & Flame from Dorking GRxGSD, Sheila Hatch from Woking, Cora Blaver from
Northampton
Mandy Robinson & Opal from Saint Leonards-on-Sea GRxL, Angela Sliman from London, Lesley
Reddy from Warwick
Sarah Rolfe & Logan from Maidstone GRxL, Brian Jones from Maidstone, Ruth Mercer from
Warwick
Simon Thomas & Keith from Crowborough LxGR, Rosemary Parker from Rochford, John Starkey from Malvern
++Manchester
Jean Helen Connolly & Waffle from Dukinfield L, Gillian Pay from Frodsham, Dawn Alejandre-Grau from Leicester
Toni Forrest & Quilla from Bolton LxGR, Peggy & Mary Conway from Broughty Ferry, Denise
Bright from Kidlington
Vincent Gregory & Viking from Blackburn GRxL, Steve & Jane Baron from Stirling, Clare Turton from Solihull
June Mather & Kiki from Burnley L, Elaine Leake from Durham, Marie-Claire Montgomery from
Leamington Spa
Michaella Oldham & Gypsy from Manchester L, Yvonne Madden from Glasgow, Philip Swallow from Warwick
Rosalyn Olver & Herbie from Altrincham GRxL, Wendy Jackson from Bury, David Yarwood from
Birmingham
Rachel Quinn & Nelly from Oldham GRxL, Nadezhda Bonelli from Sheffield, Barbara Anstie from
Sheffield, Lucy Savage from Chipping Norton
Karina Savage & Garland from Burnley GRxGSD, Jackie Handley from Sowerby Bridge, Sue
Herman from Warwick
Olivia Sunter & Hatty from Darwen L, Julie Lee from Hartlepool, Ann Price from Chester, Cath
Pedreschi from Evesham
++Newcastle
Trevor Bond & Mia from Sunderland GR, Andrea Henderson from Edinburgh, Marie Court from
Halesowen

Alister Booth & Billy from Sunderland GRxL, Heather Reid from Perth, Jacki Hauenstein from
Telford
Helen Borthwick & Rocky from Duns GRxGSD, Frances McGrath from Bangor, Trudy Evans from
Coventry
Graham Cook & Quest from Whitburn LxGR, Diane & Mark Turberfield from Montrose, Denise
Bright from Kidlington
Tracy Culley-Brown & Mo from Barrow-in-Furness GRxL, Robert Donald from Perth, Julia Duncan from Daventry
Harriet Ann Graham & Harry from Spennymoor GRxL, Brendan McCormick from Belfast,
Stephanie McGrath from Newtownards, David Yarwood from Birmingham
Mary Hall & Dottie from Seaham L, Isobel Davidson from Strichen, Linda Morris from Stratfordupon-Avon
Adrian Jones & Harley from Sunderland GRxL, Patricia Wilkinson from Inverkeithing, David
Yarwood from Birmingham
Vincent Kielty & William from Amble GRxL, Marjory Payne from Dunfermline, Adrienne Kelly from
Burton-on-Trent
Noah McNeill & Campbell from Hexham GRxL, Elgin Bannerman from Aberdeen, Jean Henderson from Aberdeen, Adrian Newitt from Leamington Spa
Michael O’Neil & Neena from Newcastle upon Tyne GRxL, Lorna Money from Glasgow, Lucy
Savage from Chipping Norton
Kyle Phillips & Tara from Bishop Auckland GRxL, Lesley Newberry from Bangor, Norman Collins from Lisburn, Desi Fisher from Bangor, Glennis Snape from Birmingham
Lisa Rankin & Verity from Yarm GRxGSD, Diane McRoberts from Dunfermline, Beryl Wyrko from
Leicester
Trish Rescigno & Faith from Morpeth L, Mr & Mrs Taylor from Forfar, Jude Jennison from Warwick
Alan Walker & Francis from Durham GR, Gillian Santos from Musselburgh
++Nottingham
Ronald Bates & Zorro from Chesterfield LxLxGR, Regina Tombs from Bingley, April Williamson from Stratford-upon-Avon
Jayne Black & Truffles from Mansfield GRxL, Eric Purcell from Doncaster, Glennis Snape from
Birmingham
Esmena Brown & Lloyd from Doncaster LxGR, Sonia Baxter from Sunderland, Joyce Bartlett from
Rugby
Doctor Sarah Bryan & Jenni from Sheffield L, Christine Henderson from Chester Le Street, Mr &
Mrs Wood from Leicester
Paul Burton & Cookie from Nottingham GRxL, Patricia Selwood from Sheffield, Janet McCalmont from Runcorn, Samantha Hanley from Telford
Eva Chappell & Iris from Newark GRxL, Gordon John McGregor from Tayport, Clare Turton from
Solihull

Brian Cowlishaw & Gerry from Barnsley GRxL, Reverend Barbara Holbrook from Nottingham,
Laura Slinn from Rugby
Margaret Doyle & Molly from Sheffield LxGR, Emily Ford from Wirral, Clare Turton from Solihull
Frank Gilbert & Willow from Worksop L, Rona Blanchard from Preston, Dawn Alejandre-Grau from
Leicester
Nicola Green & Quaker from Rotherham LxGR, Sheila Towler from Todmorden, Denise Bright from
Kidlington
Elaine Greenhalgh & Wispa from High Peak GRxL, Donna Lee from Preston, Mr & Mrs Coughlan from Lutterworth
Moya Guy & Rebecca from Belper GRxL, Geoffrey Yarwood from Manchester, Lisa Wood from
Bolton, Catherine Parker from Telford
Harry Head & Leslie from Sutton-in-Ashfield GRxL, Jeanette Steeden from Leatherhead, Eve
Smith from Tanworth In Arden
Geoff Hirst & Uri from Barnsley L, Pauline Jones from Kirby Muxloe, Jeanette Hannon from
Oldbury
Graham Middleton & Walter from Derby GRxL, Hazel Ann Pratt from Northallerton, Sarah Mitchell from Stratford-upon-Avon
Amanda Owen & Tessa from Barnsley LxGR, Christine McCrory from Milton Keynes, Carol Evans from Kingswinford
Terry Parsons & Quinn from Nottingham LxGR, Gillian Fourdrignier from Macduff, James & Alice
Tosh from Aberdeen, Denise Bright from Kidlington
Graham Rowe & Danni from Belper GRxL, Claire Thompson from Leyland, Carol Mannion from
Coventry
Tina Trigg & Drifter from Newark L, Julie Greaves from Leicester, Sue Price from Claverdon
++Peterborough
Perry Absalom & Iggy from Huntingdon L, Andrea Capewell from Newbury, Mr & Mrs Phipps from
Lechlade
Martine Brooks & April from Saint Neots GRxGSD, Joan Hattersley from Leatherhead, Anne
Cadwallader from Southam
Jackie Cook & Yannika from Cambridge LxGR, Diane & Mark Turberfield from Montrose, Lyn
Turley from Redditch
Maria Dod & Happy from Ipswich LxGR, Jacqui Richomme from Jersey, Tracy Twomey from
Leamington Spa
Elizabeth Ebbage & Yves from Peterborough L, Jesse Powis from Chelmsford, Sandra Hoffman from Coventry
Dawn Edwards & Sj from Ipswich GRxL, Sue Terry from Battle, Rowena Styles from Worcester
Marie-Sophie Fox & Lucy from Ipswich GRxGRxL, Rita & Munish Bansal from Gillingham, Mary
Cheesman from Southam
Lisa Frobisher & Quaver from Peterborough L, Keely Cheal from Cambridge, Mr & Mrs Phipps from
Lechlade

Win Kingscott & Alexis from Stowmarket GRxL, Judy Blencowe from Hitchin, Jean Nield from
Harpenden, Lynda Graham from Harpenden, Susan Brooker from Harpenden, Helen Bonnett from
Gloucester
Vincent Ridgewell & Gerant from Ipswich GRxGSD, Jackie Day from Saint Albans, Sue Herman from Warwick
Kristina Venning & Charlie from Ipswich GR, Linda Bonnar from Cirencester, Tracey Wilkinson from Telford
Harold Wright & Rocky from Beccles GRxL, Samantha Cross & Marcus Broome from Cambridge,
Jackie Ellison from Coventry
++Reading
Hannah Burgess & Hetty from Milton Keynes GRxL, Marcia Johnson from Epping, Ruth Philpott from Malvern
Fiona Corby & Molly from Reading LxGR, Katy-Ann Mason from Peterborough, Katherine Baker from Mitcheldean
Mary Da-Silva-Skinner & Opal from Redhill GRxL, Jody Deacon from Cambridge, Su Brooker from
Harpenden, Natasha Brady from Northampton
Nicky Greenhill & Hebe from Godalming GRxL, Carrie Wearn from Sevenoaks, Ruth Philpott from
Malvern
Gavin Hageman & Richie from Witney GRxL, Jenny Eaton from Thatcham, Barbara Wilkinson from
Pershore
John Hedley & Miles from Crawley GRxL, Sophia Atkins from Woking, Natasha Brady from
Northampton
Anthony Lawton & Hesta from Reading LxGR, Emma Samm from Dunstable, Tracy Twomey from
Leamington Spa
Arthur Legge & Jodi from Chipping Norton GRxL, Rachael Lee from Swindon, Lindsey Watts from
Coventry
Kevin Maddock & Amber from Slough LxGR, Philippa Bushe from London, Erica Dowse from
Coventry
Charlotte Nickson & Layla from Coventry GRxL, Doctor Karen Alldus from Welwyn Garden City,
Madeline Mason from Luton, Ruth Mercer from Warwick
Ken Parker & Henry from Buckingham L, John & Karen Eaton from Tenterden, Jill Overton from
Birmingham
Anne Price & Nessie from Reading GRxL, Michelle Taylor from Mepal, Tracey Wilkinson from
Telford
Robert Privett & Clayson from Epsom GRxL, Anna Poole from Esher, Robert Jones from Rushden
Peter Sheppard & Derby from Witney L, Abigail Grant from London, Myriam Steadman from
Welling, Sue Verran from Beckenham, Jl Wassell from Warwick
Frances Spong & Junior from Woking GRxL, Katrina Hawes from Welwyn, Sarah Robson from
Ware, Elbert Loubser from Bicester

Dee Stimpson & Freddie from Marlow L, Helen Townsend from Sevenoaks, Susan Hayes from
Northampton
Charlie Strong & Joker from Bracknell GRxL, Malcolm Moore from Sidcup, Elbert Loubser from
Bicester
Malcolm Webb & Bruno from Milton Keynes L, Janice Burn from Wokingham
Peter Williams & Amos from Staines GRxL, Greta Jackson from Reading, Vanessa Jones from
Rugby
++Shrewsbury
Dean Blackwood & Ulric from Smethwick GRxL, Claire Kirby from Shrewsbury, Geoff Lunn from
Leamington Spa
Janice Burton & Viking from Stoke-on-Trent GRxGSD, Louise McLoughlin from Knutsford, Beryl
Wyrko from Leicester
Eran Cutliffe & Lexy from Newcastle LxGR, Robert McCracken from Glasgow, Erica Dowse from
Coventry
Linda Ann Delap & Willow from Tamworth GRxL, Jean Andrew from Oldham, Adrian Newitt from
Leamington Spa
Carol Francis & Sunny from Telford GRxL, Eileen Atkinson from Elland, Sheila Coton from
Birmingham
Bethany Gillett & Darcy from Tamworth L, Susan O’Kelly from Bolton, Linda Morris from
Stratford-upon-Avon
Marian Lewis & Spencer from Aberystwyth GR, Lynne Hampson from Fleetwood, Sylvia Burgess from Buckingham
Claire Miller Mulholland & George from Wombourne GRxGSD, Liz Jones from Aboyne, Sue Herman from Warwick
Val Smith & Stanley from Wolverhampton GRxL, Susan Philpott from Dudley, Eve Smith from
Tanworth In Arden
Marie Stent & Pixie from Stoke-on-Trent GRxL, Marion Hill from Chorley, Laura Slinn from Rugby
Brian Walters & Otis from Wolverhampton LxGR, Mr & Mrs Coleman from Dundee, Clare Turton from Solihull
Zoe White & Dusty from Stafford GRxL, Brenda Abson from Rotherham, Carol Mannion from
Coventry
++Southampton
Desmond Bryan & Albert from Weymouth L, George McCaffery & Janice Boswell from Corsham,
Mr & Mrs Dawson from Kenilworth
Angela Flake & Nick from Christchurch GRxL, Steve Farren from Sittingbourne, Beata Jones from
Gillingham, Robert Jones from Rushden
Marion Hookins & Naylor from Havant GRxL, Malcolm & Stella Storer from Leamington Spa,
Robert Jones from Rushden
Zoe Legg & Vanda from Basingstoke GRxL, Tanya Cole from Cardiff, Jackie Ellison from Coventry

Alex Mason & Uska from Southampton GRxL, Jenny Dixon from Guildford, Stephanie Billington from Leatherhead, Geoff Lunn from Leamington Spa
Maurice McCreery & Fudge from Southampton GRxL, Doreen Griffin from Reading, Margaret
Creed from Stourbridge
Sue Reed & Sally from Eastleigh L, Rebekah Cornford from Saint Albans, Susan Hayes from
Northampton
John Reeves & Biscuit from Verwood L, Gillian Lewis from Bridgend, Jl Wassell from Warwick
Jean Robinson & Bella from Fareham L, Belinda Hunter from Leeds, David Yarwood from
Birmingham
Les Sheath & Morgan from Southampton GRxL, Fiona McWhirter from Kirkcaldy, Ann Hubble from
Birmingham
Neil Soper-Dyer & Omega from Basingstoke GRxL, Victoria Welsh from Chippenham, Natasha
Brady from Northampton
Tracey Sutton-Becker & Brownie from Portsmouth GRxL, Hazel Evelyn Eyre from Barnsley,
Lorraine Harrison from Kidderminster
Joseph Topp & Forest from Bournemouth GR, Shelagh Davidson from Aberdour, Sylvia Burgess from Buckingham
Richard Twose & Genie from Fareham LxGR, Freda Gersh from Dumfries, Mr & Mrs Clarke from
Brierley Hill
Pamela Willingham & Magic from Ryde GRxL, David & Mavis Yale from Gillingham, Geoff Lunn from Leamington Spa
++Welwyn Garden City
Nicola Beard & Sally from Stanford-le-Hope L, Linda Fleming from Erith, Sue Price from Claverdon
Patricia Beckinsale & Acer from Basildon L, Peter Ratcliffe from Kings Langley, Dawn Collins from
Telford
Ronald Bridgman & Ruth from Farnham GRxL, Jane Wheelhouse from Farnham, Carla Alves Da
Silva from Solihull
Andrea Cannon & Lindy from Leighton Buzzard GRxL, Helen Scourfield from Hook, Ruth Mercer from Warwick
Sean Dilley & Sammy from Stevenage GRxL, Jill Stewart from Henley-on-Thames, Elizabeth
Vickers from High Wycombe, Eve Smith from Tanworth In Arden
Colin Fowler & Marshall from Luton GRxL, Stacey Crampton from Chelmsford, Elbert Loubser from
Bicester
Patricia Pearce & Doris from Epping LxGR, Candice Worlidge from Farnham, Paul Dodd from
Westbury On Severn
Kelvin Sheridan & Mia from Borehamwood LxGR, Geraldine Garner from Peterborough, Barbara
Cook from Chelmsford, Katherine Baker from Mitcheldean
Mandy Smith & Holly from Roydon GRxL, Ruth Revis from Peterborough, Ruth Philpott from
Malvern

John Speltinckx & Pippa from Letchworth Garden City L, Charlotte & Adele Marshall-Reynolds from Swindon, Margaret Buckingham from Warwick
Gordon Stokes & Bonnie from Harwich GRxL, Lesley & Peter Collins from Orpington, Cherry
Gillbard from Aldingbourne
Tony Tamburro & Toza from Leigh On Sea GRxGSD, Mary Smith from Fareham, Sue Wilkins from
Rugby
Katie Vallory & Becket from Welwyn GRxL, Sonya Scott from Brentwood, Lindsey Watts from
Coventry
++Could you be a brood bitch holder?
We are always looking for more volunteer brood bitch holders, who look after our guide dog
“mums” in their own homes. You need to live within an hour’s drive of our National Breeding
Centre, near Leamington, not work more than four hours per day, have a secure garden, and be able to transport the guide dog mum to and from the centre. For more information, please call
0845 3727432 or e-mail bshenquiries@guidedogs.org.uk
++Breeding Stock
Abby, 25.06.14, GRxL, Bitch, Mrs J Brinkworth from Nuneaton, Mrs C Arrowsmith from Alton
Allie, 25.06.14, GRxL, Bitch, Mrs J Brinkworth from Nuneaton, Ms J Abel from Banbury Mrs C Prior from Rugby
Barker, 19.08.14, GR, Stud, Outside Bred, Mr D Higton from Coventry
Bonnie, 28.10.14, GSD, Bitch, Mrs N Williams from Shrewsbury, T & D Coy from London
Buddy, 09.07.14, GR, Stud, Outside Bred, Mrs P Butcher from Wisbech
Darcy, 27.08.14, GRxL, Bitch, Miss S Mann from Cheltenham, Mrs JD Davies from Neston
Darwin, 20.10.14, GR, Stud, Outside Bred, Mrs M Chetwood from Tewkesbury
Edward, 24.09.14, GR, Stud, Outside Bred, Donated Dog
Fara, 28.10.14, L, Bitch, Mr R Asker from Coventry, Mr N Clark from Tayport
Fergus, 24.06.14, L, Stud, Mrs S Mitchell from Stratford-upon-Avon, Mrs L Tromans from
Kidderminster
Guy, 14.08.14, GR, Stud, Mrs P Kimmins from Birmingham, Mrs W Moore from Northampton
Inca, 27.08.14, GR, Bitch, Mrs J Williams from Moreton-in-Marsh, Mr F Harrison from
Littleborough
Iris, 26.06.14, L, Bitch, Mrs S Mitchell from Stratford-upon-Avon, Mrs E Jefferies from Cambridge
Ivo, 24.06.14, L, Stud, Mrs S Mitchell from Stratford-upon-Avon, Mrs D Valvona from Aldershot
Ivy, 14.08.14, L, Bitch, Mrs S Mitchell from Stratford-upon-Avon, Mrs L Wise from Coventry
Ivy, 27.08.14, GR, Bitch, Mrs J Williams from Moreton-in-Marsh, Mrs B Stein from Roslin Mrs K
Macdonald from Edinburgh
Java, 27.08.14, GRxL, Bitch, Miss H Rees from Droitwich, Mrs KS Shepherd from Bolton
Jemima, 27.08.14, GRxL, Bitch, Miss H Rees from Droitwich, Mrs P Bland from Berkhamsted

Jemma, 24.09.14, GRxL, Bitch, Miss H Rees from Droitwich, Mr C Sanderson from Plymouth
Jess, 26.06.14, L, Bitch, Mrs C Bloxham from Worcester, Miss J Valadini from Huntingdon
Karen, 22.07.14, GR, Bitch, Mrs M Court from Halesowen, Mrs H Sinclair from Banff
Kiki, 24.09.14, GRxL, Bitch, Mrs J Macgregor from Warmington, Mr C Comley from Swindon
Lucy, 25.06.14, GRxL, Bitch, Mrs C Kearney from Shrewsbury, Mrs C Kearney from Shrewsbury
Morgan, 14.08.14, GR, Stud, Mrs J Williams from Moreton-in-Marsh, Mrs HF Fearnett from
Flintshire
Nathan, 14.08.14, GSD, Stud, Mr P Plant from Leamington Spa, Mrs M Healy from Leicester
Neesha, 22.07.14, GSD, Bitch, Mr P Plant from Leamington Spa, Mrs M Thomson from Forfar
Nia, 18.08.14, GSD, Bitch, Mr P Plant from Leamington Spa, I Lonsdale from Corsham
Nixon, 08.07.14, GSD, Stud, Mr P Plant from Leamington Spa, Mr MW Wilson from Southport
Olivia, 24.09.14, GRxL, Bitch, Mrs T Bond from Wellesbourne, Mrs MT Townsend from Morecambe
Pam, 22.09.14, GR, Bitch, Mrs P Kimmins from Birmingham, Ms S Beechey from Stratford-upon-
Avon
Pascale, 20.10.14, GR, Stud, Mrs P Kimmins from Birmingham, Mrs E McEwan from Glasgow
Penny, 25.06.14, L, Bitch, Mrs JM Perry from Southam, Mrs S Hadden from Darlington
Pepper, 28.10.14, L, Bitch, Mrs J Ball from Stourbridge, Mr & Mrs A Shute from Morpeth
Pickle, 28.10.14, L, Stud, Mrs J Ball from Stourbridge, Mrs E M Haywood from Burnley
Prince, 21.08.14, L, Stud, Mr R Morgan from West Malvern, Mr & Mrs R & P Morton-Kemp from
Aveley
Purdie, 28.10.14, L, Bitch, Mrs J Ball from Stourbridge, Mrs A Bray from Chester
Quala, 27.08.14, GRxL, Bitch, Miss S Mann from Cheltenham, Mr & Mrs D Hyslop from
Dunfermline Mrs M Thomson from Dunfermline
Queenie, 14.08.14, GRxL, Bitch, Miss S Mann from Cheltenham, Miss J Tavendale from
Kilmarnock Mrs A Temple from Forres
Rhona, 14.08.14, GRxL, Bitch, Miss H Rees from Droitwich, Mrs D Griffin from Reading
Rookie, 05.08.14, CCR, Stud, Miss L Docherty from Rugby
Rye, 14.08.14, GRxL, Bitch, Mrs C Kearney from Shrewsbury, Mrs S Mills from Nottingham
Sula, 27.08.14, L, Bitch, Mrs L Savage from Chipping Norton, Mr HW Davies from Leeds
Tina, 24.09.14, L, Bitch, Mrs L Savage from Chipping Norton, Mrs SE Brown from Wirral
Violet, 20.10.14, GRxL, Bitch, Mrs J Paget from Rugby, Mr & Mrs R Farmer from Exeter
Viva, 28.10.14, GSD, Bitch, Mrs R Jackson from Leamington Spa, Mrs J Williamson from
Gillingham Mrs G Rackley from Gillingham

Wesley, 22.07.14, GR, Stud, Mrs D Field from Warwick, Mrs S Rowan from London
Wheeler, 24.09.14, GR, Stud, Mrs J Williams from Moreton-in-Marsh, Mrs J Harker from
Newcastle upon Tyne
Whiskey, 27.08.14, L, Bitch, Mr R Morgan from West Malvern, Mrs P Walsh from Colchester
Whispa, 27.08.14, L, Bitch, Mr R Morgan from West Malvern, Mr AS Powell from Chorley
Winnie, 24.06.14, GR, Bitch, Outside Bred, Miss C Campbell from Edinburgh
Woody, 24.06.14, GR, Stud, Outside Bred, Mrs P Reeve from Nantwich
Wren, 22.07.14, GR, Bitch, Outside Bred, Mrs B Abson from Rotherham
Wynne, 21.08.14, GR, Bitch, Mrs D Field from Warwick, Mrs J Hutchison from Solihull
Zeus, 21.08.14, L, Stud, Mr A Newitt from Leamington Spa, Mr SBE Barrington Earp from
Kingswinford
[Back to contents]
[End]