FORWARD: Summer 2010.
Guide Dogs presents the Summer 2010 issue of Forward, the quarterly magazine of
the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association.
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 contents, in order, are as follows:
01 THE TEAM: A list of everyone who’s involved with putting this magazine
together, plus our contact details.
02 RICHARD’S WELCOME: Meet Guide Dogs’ new Chief Executive
03 NEWS: A new technowatch forum, building starts at the new National Breeding
Centre, official opening of the Guide Dog Training School Atherton and the theme
for Guide Dog Week 2010
04 A FITTING TRIBUTE: How Ann Moorhouse honoured her husband John’s memory
05 LEARNING ABOUT GUIDE DOGS: Richard Leaman meets staff and volunteers
06 A DAY IN THE LIFE OF…: Technical Canine Research Worker, Rachel Moxon
07 GO WALKIES WITH OATIE: “go walkies for Guide Dogs” step out across the UK
08 A GARDEN FOR GUIDE DOGS: A unique show garden at BBC Gardeners’ World
09 A NEW ARRIVAL FOR FUNDRAISING: New life-sized collecting box makes its debut
10 MARATHON SUCCESS FOR TEAM GUIDE DOGS: Hundreds of runners raise thousands for
Guide Dogs
11 “GET TOGETHER”… A WINNING THEME!: Themed fundraising inspires everyone
12 BACK TO SCHOOL FOR GUIDE DOGS!: Schoolchildren learn about the challenges of
sight loss
13 MP’S GET ON BOARD WITH TALKING BUSES: Update on the campaign
14 RESEARCH ROUND-UP: A summary of some recent research projects
15 BED AND BREAKFAST FOR DOGS: Spotlight on the role of volunteer boarders
16 AN INTERNATIONAL PARTNERSHIP: Meet Maggie Galbarczyk and guide dog Ingmar, an
inspiring story of ambition and determination
17 YOU’VE GOT A FRIEND: New pilot service could help prospective guide dog owners
18 GUIDE DOG OF THE YEAR 2010: Last chance to enter
19 COMPETITIONS: Will you be a winner?
20 THANK YOU TO OUR SUPPORTERS: Fantastic fundraising from around the UK
21 IN GOOD COMPANY: Guide Dogs and businesses team up
22 WHAT’S ON?: Dates for your diary
23 WE’LL NEVER FORGET: Tributes to guide dogs who will be sadly missed
24 LETTERS: Have your say
25 IN MEMORY: Forward obituaries
26 PROMOTIONS: A roundup of the promotional features that appear in different
locations in the print version of this issue of Forward.
27 NEW PARTNERSHIPS: Bridget Carr and Michele – just one of many new partnerships
28 CONTACT DETAILS: List of phone numbers and contact details arising from the
articles in this edition of Forward Magazine.
[End of contents]
On the front cover there is a photograph of Maggie Galbarczyk with her guide dog
Ingmar. Maggie is sitting on the grass having a rest at The Birmingham Botanical
gardens and Glasshouse; she is wearing a white top with a light and dark blue
striped shirt over the top and a pair of black jeans. Maggie is sitting with one
of her legs crossed and the other stretched out; Ingmar is lying next to Maggie
with his head resting on her leg. Ingmar is wearing his high visibility working
harness.
The main caption on the cover reads: “An international partnership meet Maggie
Galbarczyk and guide dog Ingmar”.
Other captions on the cover read: “Meet Richard Leaman Guide Dogs’ new Chief
Executive” and “A new arrival for fundraising life-sized collection box makes its
debut”.
Running along the foot of the page is a straight gold line; inserted in the line
is the Guide Dogs’ logo in white.
01 The team.
Editor: Wendy Murgatroyd
Editorial line: 0118 9838317
Founding Editor: The late Captain Nikolai Liakhoff MBE FRZS
Obituaries: Anne Gillow 0118 9838228
Contributors: Lucy Miron, Eifion Rees, Justine Harding, Lorna Catling, Hannah
Robertson, Matthew Roberts, Hannah South, Vicky Bell
Designed by: Taurus www.taurus-solutions.co.uk
Published by: The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association
Contributions: We reserve the right to edit or refuse. Send items to Forward at
the Head Office address or e-mail forward@guidedogs.org.uk. We cannot acknowledge
every item sent.
Advertisements: To advertise, please contact Wendy Murgatroyd on 0118 9838317.
Guide Dogs cannot be liable to any person for loss or damage incurred or suffered
as a result of his/her accepting or offering to accept goods or services contained
in any advertisement or promotion reproduced in Forward. Readers should make
appropriate enquiries before incurring any expense or contractual obligation.
Forward is also available in Braille, large print, audio CD and as an e-mail text
attachment. It can also be downloaded from the Guide Dogs website in text only
form, or read as a turnpage. We can also provide Forward in alternative languages
on request, call 0118 9838138. For mailing enquiries, call 0870 2406993.
Registered Head Office: The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association, Hillfields,
Burghfield Common, Reading RG7 3YG
&Tel: 0118 9835555
Fax: 0118 9835433
Website: www.guidedogs.org.uk
E-mail: guidedogs@guidedogs.org.uk
(copyright) 2010 Registered charity in England and Wales (209617) and in Scotland
(SCO38979).
Please recycle this magazine
There is a head and shoulders shot of Wendy, who has dark blonde shoulder length
hair. Wendy has been photographed outside with a backdrop of green leaves. Wendy
is wearing a baby pink top, and looking straight at the camera smiling.
[End of first article]
02 Richard’s welcome.
Welcome to the Summer issue of Forward.
Let me start by thanking all of you for making me feel so very welcome in my first
few weeks at Guide Dogs. I have been travelling around the UK meeting staff and
volunteers, both from Guide Dogs – and some of the other organisations we work
alongside – and each and every one of you has hugely impressed me with your
commitment and passion for your work.
As you will discover later in this edition, I have visited Tollgate, Leamington,
and Atherton, Dogs for Disabled, RNIB and Vision 2020, as well as attending the
“Guide to Services” launch and the “Talking Buses” parliamentary reception. I have
also experienced a blindfold walk, giving me just a taste of the challenges that
blind and partially sighted people face trying to get around and live normally. I
now know, from first hand experience, what a truly outstanding organisation Guide
Dogs is and how, every day, we dramatically change people’s lives. I feel
genuinely hugely privileged to have been asked to lead such an amazing
organisation.
Over the next few months and years, my overriding priority is to ensure that we
deliver the best possible mobility support for many more blind and partially
sighted people. There is much work to be done to ensure this happens and of course
it would not be remotely possible without the incredible selfless support we get
from our volunteers. I look forward to meeting more of you in the months ahead and
hearing your views and ideas.
I hope you enjoy this edition of Forward, particularly the articles on fundraising
and campaigning where I know you all play a vital role.
Richard
Richard is pictured at the top of the page; he has short grey hair and is outside
with a backdrop of trees and green leaves. Richard is wearing a blue shirt and
green tie, underneath a black pinstriped suit, and is looking straight at the
camera and smiling.
At the foot of article there is a photograph of Richard Leaman with guide dog
puppy Wren. Richard is crouching down next to Wren, a small black Labrador.
[End of second article]
03 News.
A royal opening at Atherton
The Guide Dog Training School Atherton has been open for business for over a year,
but its official opening, attended by the charity’s patron, HRH Princess
Alexandra, took place in May.
Accompanied by Chief Executive Richard Leaman and Chairman Tony Aston, Her Royal
Highness took a tour of the kennels, before unveiling a plaque, and then spent
time meeting staff and volunteers. Among them were Jean Berisford, who has looked
after 102 retired guide dogs over 30 years, Kate Summerfield, who is currently
walking her 36th puppy, and Tony and Ruth Warrington, who have been both
fundraisers and puppy walkers since 1979.
Dog Care and Welfare Manager Pam Trewick said: “It was a great honour to have our
patron open the site and she took a real interest in both the state-of-the-art
facilities and the staff and volunteers, who work so hard to ensure we deliver top
quality guide dogs.”
At the top of this page there is a photograph of Puppy walker Jan Harker and Puppy
Walking Supervisor Sue Cole meeting HRH Princess Alexandra.
Making a difference
“I recently lost my guide dog and did not know who to turn to. I called the STEP
service and spoke to a lovely listener who was very understanding and let me
express my emotions. It’s an excellent service, I wish it had been there when I
lost my previous dogs.”
These are the words of one grateful user of Guide Dogs’ confidential listening
service, set up to support guide dog owners after the death or retirement of their
guide dog. 14 more volunteer listeners – all guide dog owners themselves – are
attending a rigorous training and assessment programme to increase the number of
listeners available.
Call STEP on 0845 3727474 – calls are answered 8am to 10pm.
Technowatch – gadget reviews made easy
Guide Dogs is launching a unique central resource for blind and partially sighted
people listing technologies and products from around the world to assist with
mobility.
The online “one stop shop” will enable people to make informed choices when
researching and purchasing gadgets. Not only will each gadget be listed with a
description, price and contact details, there will also be reviews and ratings
provided by blind and partially sighted people. In future, the website will list
research papers on emerging technologies that may result in new products. Product
categories are:
●
Wayfinding – which guide a visually impaired person through their
environment and use satellite navigation.
●
Obstacle detection – using ultrasonic or laser sensors on white canes or
other devices to enable the user to avoid obstacles.
●
Remote activated signs – which give the user information about the
surrounding environment.
Users can read about the products and any reviews. By registering on the site, you
can add a review and rating. Registered users can also add new products and
research.
To find out more, visit www.guidedogs.org.uk/technowatch.
Work begins on new National Breeding Centre
Building work has begun on Guide Dogs’ new National Breeding Centre in Bishops
Tachbrook, Leamington Spa.
Contractors started work at the end of February on the state-of-the-art centre,
which will be a flagship site for Guide Dogs, complete with visitor and
educational facilities.
Guide Dogs will continue to operate from its current Tollgate House site, adjacent
to the National Breeding Centre, until building work finishes in the summer of
2011.
Carol Warner, National Breeding Centre Operations Project Manager, said: “We’re
delighted with this new development which will significantly contribute towards
our aim to help more blind and partially sighted people get about independently.
The new facilities will be fantastic for dogs, staff, volunteers and visitors.”
Tony Fitzgerald, Project Manager at West Midlands-based construction company
Morgan Ashurst, said: “We’re really excited to have started work on this landmark
project for Guide Dogs.” He added: “On all our projects we are keen to minimise
our carbon footprint and we’ll be incorporating a host of environmentally-friendly
features into the building such as renewable energy sources, including a biomass
boiler and rainwater harvesting.”
At the foot of this article there is a picture of Carol Warner, National Breeding
Centre Operations Project Manager and Tony Fitzgerald, Morgan Ashurst’s Project
Manager. Carol is holding a tiny fawn-coloured puppy. Both Carol and Tony are
wearing hard hats.
Eye to Eye – a unique conference for young people with a visual impairment
Eye to Eye, the first conference of its kind in the UK, aims to bring together
families and professionals to improve support and services for young people with a
visual impairment.
Co-hosted by Guide Dogs and the National Blind Children’s Society on 28 – 29
October 2010 in Birmingham, the conference connects young people with a visual
impairment and their families with professionals from the clinical, social and
education fields. It provides a unique opportunity for all parties to learn,
exchange information, and discover what the real issues facing youngsters with
visual impairment are today.
Tom Muldowney, Guide Dogs’ Head of Development said: “Our research shows that
isolation is a key feature of life for a young person with sight loss. For
parents, the issue is a lack of support, for the professionals, it’s all about
resources, both human and financial. What’s so important about this conference is
that it gives us a chance to get parents and professionals together in the same
place as blind and partially sighted children and young people, helping us all to
see eye to eye.”
To book a place, and for more information, including full details of speakers and
workshops, visit www.eyetoeyeconference.com or call 0118 9838253.
Looking forward to Guide Dog Week
Guide Dog Week 2010 will focus on “extraordinary partnerships” and run from
Saturday October 2 until Sunday October 10. It is a fantastic opportunity to
celebrate the partnerships that make Guide Dogs a life-changing charity.
As well as sharing the amazing stories of our guide dog partnerships, we’ll also
be spotlighting the invaluable work of our volunteers and our groundbreaking
collaborative work with other charities. With so much to shout about, this year
Guide Dog Week will last nine days – plenty of time for everyone to join in the
celebrations!
Richard Leaman, Chief Executive said: “This is my first Guide Dog Week since
joining the organisation and I will be leading from the front to ensure every
single member of staff gets out of their normal workplace to meet guide dog owners
and volunteers, and help make Guide Dog Week 2010 our biggest and best ever.”
It’s a fair cop
Local guide dog owners have been working with Essex Police Training College,
helping out in role plays on training days.
Guide Dogs is part of a Community Training Action Group, which has representatives
from a range of local groups. The Essex Police Training College asks members to
volunteer for the roleplays, which take place towards the end of the student
officers’ training.
Recently guide dog owner Barbara Roberts played the part of a victim who has had
her purse stolen while waiting outside a shop in a local shopping centre. The
student officers then had to interview her, with an assessor observing. She
explains: “The officers were always kind and considerate, but obviously a bit
unsure how to question someone with sight loss.”
Guide Dogs’ Information Officer for the South East, Sue Rowen, speaking on behalf
of Barbara and fellow guide dog owner volunteers June Maylin and Jane Pennick,
said: “We all found it an enjoyable and rewarding experience, and the feedback
we’ve had from the college and the student officers has been extremely positive.
We’re sure the trainees will remember the experience when dealing with visually
impaired people in the future and will feel confident in communicating with them.”
At the top of this article, there is a photograph of Shane Parker, Thelma SomersHolt and Guide Dogs’ Information Officer for the South East Sue Rowen with her
guide dog Layla.
Puppies on the buses
A national scheme, thought to be the only one of its kind in the UK, to help Guide
Dogs train its guide dog puppies, was relaunched in Bristol in February. The
scheme allows puppy walkers to travel for free on all First buses in the UK while
training their puppies.
Learning about buses, and bus stations, is a core part of guide dog training.
Thanks to the scheme, volunteer puppy walkers can take their puppies out by bus as
many times as necessary, so dogs are accustomed to different sights, sounds and
smells.
The free travel scheme saves Guide Dogs significant sums of money every year. Leon
Daniels, First UK Bus’ Communication and Customer Service Director, said: “We are
pleased that we’re able to play our part in helping to ensure that guide dogs can
be trained effectively, and that we can save the charity money at the same time.
We are committed to removing barriers for all disabled people, and we are working
hard to ensure that all of our customers, regardless of disability, can travel as
frequently as they wish to do so.”
At the foot of this article there is a picture of puppy walker Isobel Cooper with
Kaylea and First bus driver Steve Mellen. Isobel is standing on the bus, buying
her ticket from the driver. Kaylea is a yellow Labrador and is sitting at Isobel’s
feet.
Be a part of Guide Dog Training School Forfar
Individuals and groups are being encouraged to sponsor a brick in Guide Dog
Training School Forfar’s Wall of Support – and Lamont Forbes MBE, one of the
school’s key volunteers, has helped kick-start the process by donating the first
gold inscribed brick.
To raise the £1,500 for his brick, Lamont put his musical talents to good use by
playing his keyboard, singing and telling stories at a variety of events.
The Wall of Support will be built within a sensory garden that can be enjoyed by
all those coming to the school.
Bricks come in two sizes, with inscriptions in bronze, silver or gold, and prices
range from £500 to £3,000. If you would like to be a part of Forfar’s Wall of
Support, call 0845 3727315 or e-mail funraisingsc@guidedogs.org.uk.
Forfar is already welcoming visitors on its group tours, which aim to show the
public the state-of-the-art facilities and reveal some of the skill and dedication
needed to transform a cute little puppy into a dependable working guide dog. Young
dogs come to the training school when they are about 12 – 14 months and learn
skills such as walking in a straight line, stopping at kerbs and judging height
and width.
Visits to the school are free, and can accommodate groups of up to 40 people. For
more information, call 0845 3727315.
Lamont Forbes MBE has been pictured at the side of this article with guide dog
puppy Quaid. Lamont Forbes, is crouching down next to Quaid.
Travis Trek 6 – “the Legends return”
Intrepid trekkers Scott Cunningham and his guide dog Travis – from Larkhall, South
Lanarkshire – have completed their sixth mammoth trek, striding towards a £100,000
fundraising target for Guide Dogs.
Accompanied by former Rangers stars, known as the Ibrox Legends, and members of
the Royal Marine Commandos, Scott and Travis tackled the West Highland Way in some
atrocious weather. At times facing waist-deep snow and sleet, Travis sensibly
travelled in the support vehicle, leaving Scott to be guided by his partner,
Helen.
Scott says: “With £85,000 raised from my previous treks, our aim this year is to
break the £100,000 barrier. When we started I never dreamed we could raise so much
for Guide Dogs. But over 500 miles later, averaging 100 miles a trek, I’m
confident we can reach this fundraising landmark, and in doing so, show the world
how remarkable the partnership is between guide dog and owner.”
Scott has been shortlisted for an Institute of Fundraising National Award. Julie
Millar from Guide Dogs’ Scottish fundraising team said: “We are so proud and
grateful to Scott and Travis for their incredible support. If anyone deserves
national recognition for dedicated charity fundraising over a number of years,
it’s Scott!”
Pictured at the end of the article are Scott and Helen Cunningham, with their
guide dog Travis and the supporters of the Travis Trek 6. They are standing on the
Bridge of Orchy behind a large banner with all the supporters who are waving and
cheering.
Correction
In an article about guide dog owner Marcus Rawlings in the last edition of
Forward, we incorrectly stated that people who have lost their sight must wait two
years to apply for a guide dog. In fact there is no set period, and anyone who
feels that a guide dog might be the right option for them, should contact their
local district team, regardless of when the sight loss occurred.
[End of third article]
04 A fitting tribute.
John Moorhouse was a keen dog lover and very fond of his black Labrador, Charlie.
So when he died of a brain haemorrhage in 2006, aged 74, his wife Ann wanted to do
something special in his honour, and it was his love of dogs that inspired her to
set up a Guide Dogs Tribute Fund.
Ann explains: “I decided to try and raise £5,000 to name a puppy in his memory.
Each time I added to the Fund, and then received a letter from Guide Dogs, it was
like I was being encouraged along the way.
“I didn’t know how long it would take to raise the money, but was really pleased
when I’d achieved it! I’ve done lots of different things: my tennis club gave a
donation in return for me keeping the clubhouse spick and span; I had a book stall
at our local Friday market and a raffle at Christmas; a very kind neighbour asked
for donations to the Fund instead of 70th birthday presents; and every Sunday
morning, I do a car boot sale. My friends are so pleased to have a good clear-out,
especially knowing that it’s for such a good cause!”
Since the Tribute Fund was set up, sadly Labrador Charlie has died, so Ann decided
to commemorate Charlie’s memory by adding his name to the Fund. Ann has been so
busy fundraising for Guide Dogs that she has been able to name four puppies –
Charlie, Ben, Sandy and Pip! Ann says: “John and I had many happy years together,
and the Tribute Fund has been the perfect way of keeping his and Charlie’s memory
alive.”
Since the Guide Dogs Tribute Fund scheme began in 2004, 161 Funds have been
opened, helping to raise over £760,000 for Guide Dogs. Tribute Funds are special
named Funds set up to commemorate a loved one, to which friends and family can
contribute at any time. Many people use the Funds to raise £5,000 to “Name a
Puppy” in memory of their loved one.
Supporters of the Funds raise money in lots of different ways, from making
donations at special times of the year such as birthdays or anniversaries, to
organising fundrasing events with friends and family and sponsorship activities.
For further information about Tribute Funds, contact Joette Emerton on 0118
9838385 or visit www.giftsinmemory.org.uk.
At the top of this article is a photograph of Ann and John Moorhouse, they are
sitting on a wicker bench. John has his arm around Ann’s shoulders and Ann is
holding his hand.
At the foot of the article, there is a photo of Ann with her beloved dog Charlie.
Charlie is a black Labrador; Ann has been pictured giving Charlie a big cuddle.
[End of fourth article]
05 Learning about Guide Dogs.
New Chief Executive Richard Leaman gets out and about to meet staff, volunteers
and clients across the UK.
Supporting our Talking Buses campaign’s parliamentary reception with guide dog
owner Jill Allen-King MBE
Richard Leaman is pictured with Jill Allen-King; Richard is holding a copy of
Jill’s autobiography “Just Jill”.
Meeting puppy walker Dave Astin and Quinn at the Guide Dog Training School,
Atherton.
Richard is sitting on a bench with Dave Astin; Richard is bending down stroking
Quinn, who is a small sandy-coloured Labrador.
Meeting staff at the Guide Dog Training School Leamington
Pictured is Richard, with staff members and some Guide Dogs at the training
school.
Learning about dog care and welfare from Robert Coop in Dog Care at Atherton
Robert Coop has been photographed checking up on one of the Guide Dogs; Richard
Leaman is standing just behind him.
Learning about accessibility with Roger Whitton from the Assistive Technology Team
Richard Leaman is pictured sitting at a table with Rodger Whitton, Richard is
wearing a pair of headphones and is working on a laptop.
Seeing the hydrotherapy bath in action with Pam Trewick, Dog Care and Welfare
Manager, and Fiona Rybowski, Dog Care at Atherton
Pictured here is Richard Leaman as he sees at first hand the hydrotherapy bath in
action.
Meeting guests at the launch of the Guide to Services in London
Richard Leaman is pictured talking to one of the guests at the launch.
Taking a blindfold walk with a guide dog in Leamington, accompanied by Guide Dog
Mobility Instructors Nicola Brown and Adele Barnes
Pictured here is Richard Leaman as he takes part in a blindfold walk.
[End of fifth article]
06 A day in the life of…
a Technical Canine Research Worker
Interview by Eifion Rees
Rachel Moxon is a Technical Canine Research Worker based at Tollgate, near
Leamington Spa. She is 28 and lives with partner Ian near Southam in Warwickshire.
After studying for a degree in animal science at Nottingham Trent University, she
spent a year in Kentucky doing equine research, before joining Guide Dogs in
January 2008.
Technical Canine Research Workers are responsible for general canine research into
dog health and wellbeing. Attention is focused on areas of research that help
increase the effectiveness of our breeding programme. Other duties include
reporting on the progress of current research, training and mentoring students,
and identifying further research opportunities.
I wake up at 6.45am to feed the dog – my bran flakes and I come second. At the
moment I’m looking after Rhanna, a year old German Shepherd who’s waiting to be
rehomed. After a half-hour walk we’ll jump into my yellow 1975 VW Beetle and drive
to Tollgate.
Arriving between 8.30 – 9am, the first thing I do is wait for my computer to boot
up. Then I put on my white lab coat and get to work. My first job is inputting
data for a presentation to the International Guide Dog Federation conference on a
study into how management techniques affect puppy survival rates.
Research requests are presented to the Canine Research Planning Group for
approval, so I may work up a proposal, identifying how research should be carried
out.
If research has been approved, I’ll start gathering samples to study in the lab or
collecting data to input into a spreadsheet to check for statistical differences.
Next I might write up a report on other findings, feeding back to whoever
requested the research, along with the Canine Research Planning Group, so any
changes to working practices can be made.
If it’s a study into disease in breeding stock, I’ll look at some initial data
such as how many of our breeding stock are affected, or how many of their siblings
or puppies have it.
Sometimes veterinary students from the University of Nottingham come in for their
third year research projects, so I may show them how to collect and analyse
samples.
I look forward to lunch if it isn’t a boring sandwich I’ve made! Occasionally some
of the Dog Care and Welfare staff take a trip to the local chippy and bring me
back something nice.
In the afternoon I may join a conference call with the Canine Research Working
Group or Planning Group to discuss a report and current or future research
projects.
Next I’ll ensure our research is up to speed, checking external journals and
reviews – it’s all about looking after the health and welfare of the dogs so they
enjoy long, happy working lives.
Researching how DNA damage is related to fertility, I’ll analyse semen samples
under a microscope, then prepare them as glass slide smears to send to the
University of Sheffield for DNA testing.
I generally finish around 5pm, not forgetting Rhanna, who’s been in the kennels
with her friends for the day. I’m sitting down most of the day so I want to be
active in the evenings. I play badminton, horse ride and help out on a charity
horse show committee.
Bedtime is 9.30 – 10pm, when I love to curl up with a good book – at the moment
it’s Terry Pratchett’s “Unseen Academicals”.
Rachel Moxon has been pictured at the top of this article sitting on the bonnet of
her bright yellow beetle; Rhanna is lying on the ground at Rachel’s feet. Rachel
is wearing a pair of blue jeans and a Guide Dogs’ jumper.
[End of sixth article]
07 A garden for Guide Dogs.
A garden designed to illustrate the needs of visually impaired people will soon be
on show…
Guide Dogs is entering a show garden at BBC Gardeners’ World Live 2010 to
publicise difficulties regularly faced by blind and partially sighted people.
Created by award-winning designer Tracy Foster, The Guide Dogs Garden provides
space for guide dogs to demonstrate their skills in an attractive “real” garden
setting.
Guide Dogs’ staff and volunteers will be educating visitors about the top 10
hazards for blind and partially sighted people, such as overhanging branches which
can cause injury, badly parked cars and wheelie bins that may force the dog and
handler into the road.
“Styled as an urban front garden, the design illustrates situations on our streets
that guide dogs and their handlers have to negotiate, and how we could be more
considerate to their needs,” explains Tracy. “The planting is simple, stylish and
safe for dogs, and appealing through touch and smell to add interest for those
with impaired vision.”
Besides raising awareness of visual impairment, how will the garden fare in
competition? “We’d love to win a medal, but that’s not our main objective,” says
Guide Dogs Corporate Events Manager Jackie Potter. “We believe Gardeners’ World
Live provides the opportunity to engage with an entirely new audience who may not
be familiar with Guide Dogs and the amazing work we do to improve mobility for
blind and partially sighted people.”
You can visit the garden at Stand GA23 at BBC Gardeners’ World Live, NEC,
Birmingham, from 16 – 20 June. For further information, visit
www.bbcgardenersworldlive.com.
Pictured at the top of this article is an artist’s illustration of the Guide Dogs
Garden, which is to be entered into the show. The garden has lots of greenery,
trees and shrubbery.
[End of seventh article]
08 go walkies for Guide Dogs with Oatie.
Meet Oatie the mascot for “go walkies for Guide Dogs” events, which have been
sweeping the nation this summer. Oatie, who retired as a guide dog when he went
blind in one eye, has been gathering support for the sponsored dog walks since
they launched in April.
Lots of dogs have already taken their owners on one of the sponsored walks in aid
of their guide dog friends. Oatie has been to his local walk in Reading, near
Guide Dogs’ Head Office, with his owner Tim Guttridge and Tim’s wife Elaine. Tim
said: “Elaine and I have always been involved with fundraising for our local
branch in Reading and Oatie is often called upon to draw in the crowds.
“Oatie is such a friendly and happy dog with everyone he meets that we were not
surprised that he was chosen to star as the face of “go walkies for Guide Dogs”.”
Sponsor Oatie at www.virginmoneygiving.com/gowalkies
“go walkies for Guide Dogs” events are taking place up and down the country –
visit www.gowalkies.org.uk for more information. Here’s a selection of events you
can join:
26 June – Eyes Meadow, Duffield, Derbyshire. This event will run in conjunction
with Duffield Carnival on Saturday afternoon, which is an annual event.
4 July – Reigate Hill, Surrey. Meet at 11am for a summer walk complete with free
parking and refreshments.
21 August – Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire. There will be two routes, a short and
long route. Registration opens at 10am and the walk will start at 11am.
Pictured at the foot of this article is Oatie, the face of “go walkies for Guide
Dogs”, Oatie is a sandy-coloured Labrador.
At the top of the article is the “go walkies for Guide Dogs” logo, it is written
in green with a blue background and has four green paw prints leading off from the
right hand side.
[End of eighth article]
09 A new arrival for fundraising.
The birth of every future guide dog is an exciting event but this one is extra
special – and with the original conception back in August last year and a delivery
date 12 months later, you would certainly be right in saying it’s unique!
In fact this guide dog will be arriving complete with two pups of her own, and she
will be joining a long line of guide dogs, big and small, which have stood inside
and outside shops and other public places, helping to raise funds for the charity.
She’s set to become one of the most well known and loved symbols representing
Guide Dogs.
So, not an actual, live guide dog but our brand new life-sized collection box!
As you will find out from the picture description, although some of the finer
details may have changed, Guide Dogs’ collection boxes remain instantly
recognisable over the years. Last year, however, we re-launched the counter-top
collection box and, since then, we have been developing the new life-sized version
in order to modernise the design.
This has involved collaboration between staff from fundraising, marketing and
operations and volunteers. To produce the new design Guide Dogs has worked in
conjunction with Louis Kennedy, a company that operates across the third sector,
and has been instrumental in the success of Red Nose Day for Comic Relief and
Pudsey Bear for BBC Children in Need. With Guide Dogs it has produced a number of
other fundraising resources including miniature plush puppies, counter-top
collection boxes and “go walkies for Guide Dogs” dog tags.
A lot of time and attention has been put into getting the design right, with
durability being particularly important – for example, painted eyes rather than
plastic inserted ones, which are more realistic and less likely to be damaged and
a harness that is moulded into the design. There is a funnel system inside the
dogs to collect the money, which means coins won’t get stuck, and a metal drawer
to collect the money in the base, making it easier to empty, and, again, more
durable.
To get to the point where the collection box can be manufactured has also been an
extensive process and has involved:
●
The drawing of the initial design.
●
The production of a more detailed technical drawing including the new drawer
mechanism.
●
A small clay model being made followed by a painted silicon version.
●
This model was then sent to the factory where it was scanned to construct a
digital, 3D model which was scaled up to the full-sized version to create a master
mould.
●
A final proof being made from the master mould.
“The
Dogs
been
high
Beth
Vital
●
●
●
●
●
life-sized dog collection boxes are a tremendous source of income to Guide
and their iconic design is part of our history. Modernising the design has
an exciting process – I look forward to seeing them in our local shops and
streets”
Marsh, Head of Fundraising Development
statistics
Painted fibreglass.
Metal collection drawer in the base.
Height 80cm, width 50cm and depth 50cm.
Weight approximately 10kg.
The drawer can hold up to 7,000 coins.
Can you help?
750 of the new collection boxes will be delivered in early autumn, and many have
homes already. They need to be in places where lots of people pass by but, of
course, not cause an obstruction. If you know of somewhere suitable, let us know.
We also have counter-top collection boxes that need placing – call us on 0870
6002323 or e-mail collect@guidedogs.org.uk.
Do you have a story to tell about any of our collection boxes, past or present? If
so, we’d love to hear from you! You can contact us on our facebook page at
www.facebook.com/guidedogsUK or call 0870 6002323.
Pictured at the start of this article are the many different Guide Dog collection
boxes. The collection boxes vary in sizes and which dog breed has been depicted.
The three large collection boxes have been photographed at the back, with seven
small countertop collection boxes towards the front. There is also a small image
of the latest collection box.
At the foot of the article there is an image of the new Guide Dog collection box,
it is an image of a life size fawn-coloured Guide dog with two smaller puppies
lying at its feet. The dogs are placed on a large black box; on the side of the
box it reads: Guide Dogs “Every penny counts”.
[End of ninth article]
10 Marathon success for Team Guide Dogs.
Hundreds of people have been putting their best foot forward to raise thousands
for Guide Dogs. Justine Harding finds out more…
Hundreds of supporters have completed the ultimate running challenge – a marathon.
510 runners made up Team Guide Dogs for the first ever Brighton Marathon and Guide
Dogs, a charity partner for the event, fielded the second largest charity team.
Despite 26.2 gruelling miles, runners finished with a smile, carried along by the
electric atmosphere.
More than 100 Guide Dogs volunteers cheered on every runner from Team Guide Dogs –
with many staying on to welcome 34-year-old former soldier, Matthew Rhodes, over
the line almost 24 hours after the main race was completed.
Matthew, who is blind and paralysed down his right side following a motorcycle
accident, was given permission to walk the 26.2 mile course over two days to raise
money for Guide Dogs and Saint Dunstan’s, a charity providing life-long support to
blind and visually impaired ex-service people. With his guide Andy Brown, an
escort from ex-&RAF policemen and a police motorcycle outrider for the final mile,
he crossed the finish to a hero’s welcome – including his guide dog Karlo. “The
last two miles were the hardest,” said Matthew. “It was sheer agony but there was
no question of not completing the marathon.” Matthew raised more than £2,000 while
Team Guide Dogs totalled over £250,000.
A week later, at the Virgin London Marathon, the Team Guide Dogs colours were out
in force again. 231 runners faced the challenge of the world famous race, cheered
on by Guide Dogs staff, volunteers and guide dog owners. “Every one of our runners
became a celebrity at some point on the route,” said Peter Emmett, Head of Events
Fundraising. “The cry of - “go Guide Dogs” - each time one of our vests was
spotted was deafening!”
Among those getting the loudest cheers were David Boon, running blindfolded, led
by friend David Hartley dressed as a guide dog, in order to raise £15,000. Runners
were met by some guide dogs and puppies at the end of the race. “It’s a chance for
them to see the true value of the money they raise,” explained Peter. A total of
over £330,000 was raised at the Virgin London Marathon.
If you want to be part of Team Guide Dogs you can find out more at
www.guidedogs.org.uk/go. “Whether you want to jog, do a 5k fun run or a marathon,
we will support you every step of the way,” said Peter. “If you are keen to run at
next year’s Brighton or London Marathons, Guide Dogs already has a limited number
of guaranteed places available – so ‘go Guide Dogs!’ ”
At the top of the article there is a photograph of Matthew Rhodes with guide Andy
Brown and Steve Ovett, along with volunteer Keith Thake, dressed in the dog suit
at the Brighton Marathon.
At the foot of the article there is a picture of Guide dog owner Theresa Robberts
and her guide Carol Bayley at the Virgin London Marathon.
[End of tenth article]
11 Guide Dogs “Get togethers” a winning theme!
Thank you to our supporters who have been raising money with imagination, under
our “Get together for Guide Dogs” initiative. We hoped the themed fundraising
would inspire you to join forces and do great things – it has!
Guide dog owner Richard Boggie got 175 people together for a night of fun and
fundraising at the third Dog’s Dinner Ball in the Old Assembly Rooms, Newcastle.
The evening included a champagne reception, three-course meal, and music from the
Newcastle University Jazz Orchestra, a disco into the small hours, plus games, a
tombola and raffle. A staggering £5,700 was raised – enough to name a puppy and
support it for its first year. The name will be chosen by the winner of the
night’s grand draw. “It’s my way of saying - “thank you” - to Guide Dogs,” said
Richard.
Meanwhile, Norma and Derek Stent encouraged the people of Bath to “Get
decluttering” and support a week-long fundraising push for Guide Dogs. The couple
spent months collecting unwanted clothes and household items, then with the help
of the local council, they took over an unused shop in the city centre for one
week, selling the goods to raise £5,440 for Guide Dogs. “From wardrobes to knives,
forks and a hamster cage – you name it, we sold it!” said Norma.
At the side of the title of this article is the “Get together for Guide Dogs”
logo; this is an image of a circle of three yellow painted hands; in between the
hands are three blue dog paws; the words “Get together for Guide Dogs” are written
just to the side of the image in blue.
At the foot of the article is a photograph of Guide dog owner Richard Boggie with
guide dog Foley, a sandy-coloured Labrador, and Bruce Foster.
[End of eleventh article]
12 Back to school for Guide Dogs!
Children across the UK will be learning more about the impact of sight loss as
Guide Dogs goes to school…
School children across the UK are looking forward to Guide Dogs visiting this
summer, and maybe a guide dog or puppy too. The “Guide Dogs at School” initiative
is kicking off for its second year, aiming to educate youngsters about the
challenges of sight loss through tailored lessons and fun activities, while
fundraising for Guide Dogs.
This year the scheme extends from primary schools to include nursery and secondary
schools too, with resource packs designed for the needs of the National and
Scottish Curriculums, and for Welsh speakers. The secondary pack also tackles
making technology accessible to people with visual impairments.
“It’s a great opportunity for schools to teach youngsters in a fun way about the
effects of sight loss, while delivering the curriculum and having fun,” says Beth
Marsh, Head of Fundraising Development. “As well as developing empathy for others,
children can raise money for Guide Dogs, or split it with their school. It is a
win-win situation and a way of ensuring support for our charity from future
generations.”
Classroom activities include pouring water into a cup blindfolded, and discovering
how visually impaired people manage tasks such as matching their clothes, as well
as the option of a visit from a guide dog or pup.
If you know a school that would like to get involved, it’s not too late – simply
visit www.guidedogs.org.uk/guidedogsatschool or call 0870 6002323.
The Guide Dogs at School logo is pictured at the foot of this article. The logo
reads: “Guide Dogs at SCHOOL” in blue writing with a bright yellow splash as a
background.
[End of twelve article]
13 MP’s get on board with Talking Buses.
Guide Dogs’ Talking Buses campaign has been our most successful yet in terms of
winning support from the government. More than a third of all MP’s signed our
Early Day Motion (&EDM), and 51 MP’s and three Lords attended our reception at the
House of Commons in March.
We want regulations changed so every bus in the UK gives passengers audible as
well as visible information about the next stop and final destination. This will
enable blind and partially sighted people to use buses independently and with
confidence.
In order to push the issue to the top of the political agenda we have briefed
central and regional government, highlighting the benefits to all passengers and
reminding them of their responsibility to make public transport accessible to
everyone. Our 700 campaign supporters helped us by lobbying their MP’s. As a
result, we have had 232 MP’s sign EDM 506, which is calling for the regulation to
be changed, putting it in the top 10 of all EDM’s tabled this year.
In a survey carried out by YouGov for Guide Dogs, 66 per cent of people said bus
travel would be easier if there were on-board announcements about where the bus is
going and what stop is coming up.
Over 100 MP’s, civil servants, transport industry executives, bus manufacturers
and representatives from disability organisations attended our parliamentary
reception to learn about Talking Buses and discuss the issues.
After a pause during the election period, campaigning has resumed in earnest.
Blind and partially sighted people are still experiencing stressful bus journeys,
relying on others to tell them where they are, and risking danger by getting off
at the wrong stop. We won’t stop until this changes!
www.guidedogs.org.uk/talkingbuses
[End of thirteenth article]
14 Research round-up.
The health and wellbeing of our dogs, and the quality of their work, is constantly
being strengthened by the activities of Guide Dogs’ canine research team.
Recent projects looked at:
●
the effect of changing handlers during training on dogs’ learning abilities,
and how to lessen the impact of this;
●
ways of identifying, preventing and treating a condition in dogs that is
similar to Alzheimer’s disease in humans;
●
the quantities of food offered to dogs at our Guide Dog Training Schools, to
ensure feeding is consistent;
●
how our dogs are affected by firework noise during the period from bonfire
night to new year, and ways in which any anxiety can be treated;
●
human allergies to dogs and how the effects can be reduced.
Guide Dogs has also taken the exciting step of approving a five-year scientific
research project, to be carried out at Nottingham University.
Two thirds of dogs rejected from Guide Dogs’ training programme are withdrawn
because of unsuitable behaviour. This project will analyse data on our dogs’
behaviour to identify and test the genetic and environmental factors that increase
the likelihood of dogs being withdrawn for behavioural reasons.
We will then develop improved behavioural assessment processes that enable dogs
with a higher likelihood of withdrawal to be identified early.
This should improve dog quality, be beneficial to dogs’ wellbeing and save Guide
Dogs significant costs and resources.
For more details contact Kate Neal, Research Assistant, on 0118 9838189 or e-mail
kate.neal@guidedogs.org.uk.
[End of fourteenth article]
15 Bed and breakfast for dogs.
Did you know trainee guide dogs sometimes learn better if they’re living in a home
environment? This is just one reason why volunteer boarders play such a valuable
role within the organisation.
Boarders offer dogs somewhere to live outside “school” time during their final
stages of training. The dogs learn about home life and Guide Dogs gets a chance to
assess their temperament, making them easier to match to their eventual owners.
Mother-of-two Susan Thorp lives in central London and has boarded 13 dogs over
three years. The Thorps got involved because youngest son Max wanted a puppy. “I
work at a school, so we couldn’t have one full time, so at first we sponsored a
puppy. Then one day a colleague brought in a dog he was boarding, and we’ve been
involved ever since. Each one is different and a joy to have. The dogs learn about
city life and my boys learn about responsibility!”
Most boarders do the “school run” every weekday morning and evening – taking their
dogs to the local Guide Dogs office and collecting them – but some benefit from a
delivery service. “We’re a small team and prefer to pick up and drop off the dogs
ourselves,” says Edinburgh Guide Dog Mobility Instructor Gavin Neate. “It’s also a
great way to stay in touch with boarders.”
Avis Schofield and husband Graham live in Haddington, near Edinburgh. The couple
are retired and have been boarders for three years, since seeing an advert in a
local paper. Needing flexibility to visit family, they went for what Avis calls a
“win-win” arrangement.
“The dogs are fantastic and well trained, but it’s great fun helping them through
the small issues – one loved oven gloves and destroyed three pairs! It’s sad
seeing them go but they’re going to do a fantastic job for their owners, and we
always look forward to the next one.”
Boarders since 2007, Sarah Dredge and husband Chris live near Shrewsbury and work
full time. “As we’re out of the house all day it would be unfair to keep a normal
dog,” Sarah says, “but guide dogs go to work just like we do. It’s the best of
both worlds. I used to work in the same building as Guide Dogs, so I’d drop the
dog off at 9am then just walk upstairs to my office.”
“Volunteer boarders make a fantastic contribution to the way we train our dogs,”
says Guide Dogs’ Client Services Manager Oliver Barton. “The dogs enjoy the
attention and social opportunities of domestic life, are more relaxed and so
better able to learn. Boarders are a precious resource, and our thanks go out to
them for the exceptional work they do.”
If you are interested in boarding, contact the National Volunteering Office on
0845 3717771 or e-mail volunteer@guidedogs.org.uk.
Included in this article is a photograph of Graham Schofield with guide dog Colt
in Dawyck Botanic Garden near Peebles, Scotland. Graham is wearing a red jumper
with dark blue trousers and a pair of walking boots. Colt is a Sandy-coloured
retriever and is sitting patiently at Graham’s side. Graham and Colt are pictured
while on a walk in the countryside.
[End of fifteenth article]
16 An international partnership.
by Eifion Rees
Most people have heard about the American Dream, but Maggie Galbarczyk is living a
very British one. She has been in the UK for the past nine months, pursuing her
ambition to become a clinical psychologist – something that would not be possible
in her home country of Poland.
“It is still very different for a blind person to find a job there, let alone a
job in a profession like psychology,” the 29-year-old says. “So I moved to the
UK.”
Maggie – whose first name is actually Malgorzata – works as an assistant NHS
psychologist in Birmingham, and will graduate from the University of Lublin, in
eastern Poland, in June. She chose to complete her MA in psychology in four years
in order to devote a further 12 months to gaining practical experience – something
else that would have been difficult back home.
In fact, even being a guide dog owner has proved difficult there in the past.
European law forbids it, but Maggie’s guide dog Ingmar has still been refused
entry to Polish shops, supermarkets and churches, as well as the hospitals so
important for her training. There are only a very few guide dogs in the country,
and those there are do not always have the best reputation – a lack of facilities
and breeding centres mean most are unruly, making them dangerous for their owners.
Which goes some way towards explaining why Ingmar hails from New York City. There
for an operation on her eyes, Maggie applied to American organisation Guiding Eyes
for the Blind to get him – inspired by the work of Guide Dogs in the UK.
“I’d wanted to have a guide dog since 2001, when I stayed with a British family
who owned one and saw what a difference it could make to my life.”
Maggie has been blind since she was 16. Having been diagnosed with cataracts at
birth and glaucoma aged three, she has undergone more than 30 surgical procedures
to relieve painfully high pressure in her eyes. At the age of 15, a US charity –
Right for Sight – run by a Polish ex-pat, flew her to New York for more medical
treatment.
“My eyes couldn’t cope, though,” she recalls. “After one operation too many they
haemorrhaged, and that was it. They were removed in 2005, but the sockets were so
badly damaged they couldn’t cope with implants. I had my last operation a year
later, to replace the implants with fat taken from my body.”
She is still in touch with the doctor who was operating on her when she went
blind, who is also the director of Right for Sight. He attended her graduation
with Ingmar, still upset Maggie had lost her vision but pleased to see her getting
a guide dog – the next best thing.
“As for me, I don’t see blindness as a problem,” says Maggie. “It’s just one facet
of me, like being Polish, having curly hair, being outgoing. I have many
characteristics, some of which I might choose to change, but not this one. That’s
a psychologist’s answer for you!”
Hailing from Wroclaw, Poland’s fourth largest city, it was important that Maggie
and Ingmar were able to work together in a similar environment. An intensive 26
days of training took place in bustling Manhattan, with additional work carried
out in Poland.
“They had to be sure that he was the right dog for me,” she says. “I had a chance
to learn about communicating with him and with other people, making sure I was
being safe, learning how to care for him and how to be a guide dog owner – it was
about training me as well as the dog.”
Guiding Eyes undertook several follow-up meetings with the pair, both in the US
and in Poland. Now Maggie is resident in the UK she feels happy being looked after
by Guide Dogs.
“It was stressful dealing with certain problems in Poland, trying to find places
that would accept Ingmar, but now I’m much more relaxed. I’m well supported by
Guide Dogs, and feel much safer to know I can call any time and receive the help I
need.”
In terms of the differences in training, Maggie says there are very few – in order
to have coped with so many transitions, Ingmar has had to be exceptional, and her
Guide Dogs contacts have been impressed.
“The main difference is that I was trained to walk with a symbol cane as well –
guide dogs do not have the same association in Poland, so it was about letting
drivers know I was blind. In this country I still use it to locate the button to
cross the road, which they don’t have in Poland – Ingmar has not been trained to
find them. Apart from that I would say he is a true international guide dog.”
The six-year-old yellow Labrador may have been able to accommodate himself quickly
to every new environment, and still retain his laid back and relaxed attitude, but
he’s no pushover.
“In Poland we say - “quiet water” - you wouldn’t guess to look at him that he has
such a strong personality,” says Maggie. “He is patient and quiet during the hours
I spend at university or working with patients, but for example when it’s raining
he will stubbornly sit at every bus stop we pass – I need to persuade him that
unfortunately we’re walking! That independence is also a benefit. There are still
some places in Birmingham I don’t understand very well. I don’t know how he does
it but he always finds his way, even if he’s only been there once before. He
sometimes remembers the way better than I do. During training I was told it would
be better for him to master certain routes and change them as little as possible,
as it would be difficult for him to learn things over and over again. Ingmar has
proved them wrong, though.”
He also loves flying – during Maggie’s many trips back to Poland to visit her
family he goes to sleep as though he were on a bus. If only the budget airline the
pair use could be so relaxed about his presence: despite having made the trip many
times, there always appears to be some trouble flying back to the UK.
In addition to her academic work, Maggie also loves swimming, tandem bike rides,
trips to the country and visits to the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, which she
says provides well for non-sighted visitors. Reading is also a great passion – she
studied British Contemporary Literature before setting out on the path to becoming
a clinical psychologist.
“My favourite authors are Virginia Woolf and Sylvia Plath, but I also love William
Faulkner. American authors have a very specific approach to the world – for them
the American Dream still exists, which I find very positive. I believe it, because
I have my British Dream.
“Here, I have opportunities I wouldn’t have back home. When you really want to,
you can achieve just about anything. With Ingmar, and the support of Guide Dogs
and other organisations, it’s possible for me to go out and do whatever I feel
like doing.”
The Editor would like to thank Chairman James Wheeler and Vena Middleton for their
kind permission to use the gardens. To find out more and read about a diary of
events, visit www.birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk.
Accompanying this article there are a few pictures of Maggie and her Guide Dog
Ingmar. The first image is of Maggie kneeling on the ground giving Ingmar a
cuddle. The second image is of Ingmar guiding Maggie around the Botanical Gardens.
The final image is of Maggie sitting on the ground having a rest; Ingmar is lying
just to the side of her and, Maggie is stoking Ingmar.
The photographs of Maggie and Ingmar in this issue of Forward were taken at The
Birmingham Botanical Gardens and Glasshouses, Westbourne Road, Edgbaston,
Birmingham, B15 3TR.
At the end of the article there is a quote from Maggie which reads: “With Ingmar,
and the support of Guide Dogs and other organisations, it’s possible for me to go
out and do whatever I feel like doing”
[End of sixteenth article]
17 You’ve got a friend…
Guide Dogs is piloting a new “buddy dog” service which would allow us to bring
greater independence and mobility to more blind and partially sighted people
across the UK.
The service is targeted towards people who could benefit from having a dog to
increase their confidence and wellbeing. Buddy dogs will also be used to provide
companionship and support to our clients beyond guide dog ownership, and to assess
whether a dog would be a suitable mobility aid for prospective guide dog owners.
Twenty buddy dog partnerships will be involved in the 12-month pilot to determine
whether Guide Dogs launches the service in future.
The partnerships will be carefully selected from existing contacts, and measures
will be in place to monitor the welfare of both the dogs and recipients. Members
of the public cannot apply at this pilot stage.
●
Young people’s buddy dog: Placed with families with a blind or partially
sighted young person under 16, who takes on some responsibility for it. The dog
could be used to assess their suitability for future guide dog ownership.
●
Young people’s buddy dog within a specialist school or unit: Placed with a
teacher or professional working with blind and partially sighted young people in a
specialist school or unit.
●
Team assessment buddy dog: Placed with a member of Guide Dogs staff, who
uses it to develop the skills of potential guide dog applicants and assess their
suitability for guide dog ownership.
●
Adult’s buddy dog: Placed with “retired” or existing guide dog owners.
The dogs used will be those who have been withdrawn from training or working, or
may have retired – but who have the right skills and temperament.
The buddy dog service supports our strategy by preparing people for guide dog
ownership and developing their confidence to be able to find the right mobility
services. It also maintains our life-long commitment to clients and dogs.
For more information, e-mail sian.caine-southward@guidedogs.org.uk or
graham.kensett@guidedogs.org.uk.
[End of seventeenth article]
18 Guide Dog of the Year – enter now!
Guide dogs can have a remarkable effect on someone’s life – does your guide dog,
or a guide dog you know, deserve to be named Guide Dog of the Year 2010? This
year, the three finalists’ stories will be featured in Woman’s Weekly magazine.
Three categories:
Beyond the Call of Duty – for dogs that have performed a heroic act, or helped
their owner avoid a dangerous situation.
Life Changing – for dogs who have given their owners the mobility and confidence
to take on a new challenge.
Outstanding Work – for dogs whose work is exceptional – mastering complex skills.
How to nominate
Online: www.guidedogs.org.uk/awards
Write: (maximum 500 words) to Hannah Robertson, Guide Dogs, Hillfields, Burghfield
Common, Reading RG7 3YG.
Telephone: Hannah Robertson 0118 9838266.
Tell us: the category you are nominating in and why; your name, address, phone
number, and the name of the guide dog and owner (if it is not you).
A panel of judges will select a winner in each category, before the overall Guide
Dog of the Year 2010 is chosen. Winners will be announced in September.
Nominated dogs must be qualified and expected still to be working in September
2010. For full terms and conditions, visit www.guidedogs.org.uk.
Closing date: 23 June 2010
[End of eighteenth article]
19 Competition.
Test your knowledge with this internationally themed quiz and win yourself a cool
bag, perfect for picnics on hot summer days.
There is an image of a picnic basket to the right of this section. The picnic
basket is filled with grapes and bread; next to the basket there is a cheese board
with a few different types of cheese and a bottle of wine with a few glasses.
1. Which is the smallest county in England?
2. Mount Rushmore is located in which US state?
3. The Minoan palace “Knossos” is located on which Greek island?
4. Sake is traditionally drunk in which Asian country?
5. The Large Hadron Collider is located near which European city?
6. Ktata Tjunta in Australia’s Northern Territory is also known by what name?
7. The pizza was first invented in which Italian city?
8. Sugar Loaf Mountain stands high above which city in Brazil?
9. What is the name of Guadi’s famous Spanish church that is still under
construction?
10. Which country is known as the “Rainbow nation?”
Once you have answered all the questions, tell us the sport related theme of the
quiz.
Send your answer to Forward Competition, Guide Dogs, Hillfields, Burghfield
Common, Reading RG7 3YG, e-mail forward@guidedogs.org.uk or call 0118 9838138.
Entries must reach us by 15 July 2010.
Congratulations to June Panton from Leeds who wins a luxury box of Hotel Chocolat
champagne truffles for her entry to our Spring competition.
Answers to Spring Forward competition:
1. Mushrooms 2. West Yorkshire 3. Breadcrumbs 4. Quince 5. Choux 6. Chardonnay,
Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier 7. A la carte 8. Blackcurrants 9. Cacao tree
Caption competition
Thank you to David Newman, friend of guide dog owner Anna Lawson who sent in this
photo of guide dog Yarna enjoying herself on a farm break. Can you think of a
caption?
There is a photograph of David Newman on his farm, he is standing in a field, next
to a flock of sheep. David is about to throw a ball for Yarna, who is waiting
patiently in front of him. David is wearing a blue baseball cap, a big red and
blue jacket and a pair of black trousers as well as dark blue wellies.
Congratulations
The Spring caption competition winner was Janice Greaves from Lichfield. The
winning caption was: “What brrr...eed are you?”
Janice wins a £10 Marks and Spencer voucher.
To enter, please write your answer on a postcard and send it to Hannah South,
Forward Competition, Guide Dogs, Hillfields, Burghfield Common, Reading RG7 3YG.
You can also enter by e-mail forward@guidedogs.org.uk or telephone 0118 9838138.
Entries must reach us by 15 July 2010. The prize is a £10 Marks and Spencer
voucher.
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 these competitions is 15 July 2010.
[End of nineteenth article]
20 Thank you to our supporters.
Circled at the top of this article is the “Volunteers the heart of Guide Dogs”
logo
Jersey Branch’s signature event “The Biggest Book Sale” raised
Now in its sixteenth year, the book sale was held at the Royal
with over 30,000 books up for sale along with a number of rare
silent auction for bids. Children from Mont Nicolle School ran
bookmarks to further boost the fundraising total.
an amazing £23,385.
Jersey Showground
books placed in a
a stall selling
Blackburn and District Branch visited the Queens Lodge Nursing Home and manned a
trading stall to raise over £1,187 for Guide Dogs.
Staff from Queens Lodge Nursing Home have been photographed with Guide Dogs
supporters.
Millie and Ella Sparrow and their best friends Harriett and Francesa Shaw have
raised £70 for Guide Dogs by selling buns, cakes and biscuits after school –
selling out within minutes of setting up their stall.
Millie and Ella have also raised over £300 for Guide Dogs by organising a
collection of old mobile phones and ink cartridges at their school, Hoyle Court
Primary in Baildon, West Yorkshire. Their most recent event for Guide Dogs was a
sponsored bike ride along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, along with their parents,
which raised another £300. Well done girls!
Pictured are Ella, Francesca, Millie and Harriet, Val Sherred with guide dog Una,
Head Teacher Lynda Florence and guide dog puppy Patch with puppy walker Jean
Endersby. Ella, Francesca, Millie and Harriet are holding up an oversized cheque.
The Lion Walk Shopping Centre in Colchester raised over £1,454 for Guide Dogs by
holding a concert organised by Essex Police and featuring their brass band. The
centre has now reached the target to name a guide dog puppy.
Pictured is Lion Walk Manager Paul Bentham, puppy walker Elaine Cole, Chief
Superintendent Tim Newcomb, guide dog owner Sue Rowen and Sergeant Dave Gillies;
they are standing behind Sergeant John Gemmell, Police Community Support Officer
Jackie Tyrell, Sergeant Ian Jenkins and guide dogs Zeppellin and Layla.
The Tenby and Pembrokeshire Branch celebrated its 34th anniversary with a lunch at
the Giltar Hotel, Tenby. Chairperson Anne Lillycrop presented flowers to the
branch president, former guide dog owner Iris Roblin, who recently celebrated her
ninetieth birthday. Treasurer Alan Davies announced that £52,877 was raised by the
branch in 2009 – the best year ever! District Fundraiser Allison Charles and Tom
Pey, Director of Guide Dogs External Affairs, also added their thanks and
congratulations.
The Chippenham and Corsham Branch recently held a dog walk. Over 60 people
attended with over 20 dogs, including pet dogs, guide dog puppies, working guide
dogs and several retired guide dogs. The group set out from Corsham Town FC and
walked through the grounds of Corsham Court.
The first event of its kind in Corsham, organiser Janet Smith said: “It was
fantastic to see all the dogs and their owners enjoying a Sunday morning stroll.
The event was free and I’d like to thank Corsham Town FC, who allowed us to use
their facility free of charge. We definitely want to do this again.”
Janice Boswell has been photographed with guide dog puppy Otis, Robin and Diana
Mansfield with Diana’s guide dog Venice, Alan and Shirley Fletcher with Alan’s
guide dog Joy and guide dog Croft.
Hayley Neal, Chippenham Support Branch volunteer, took to the air to skydive for
Guide Dogs and raised £350. Hayley said: “It was lovely and sunny and I was very
apprehensive and nervous. I really enjoyed the experience, even though as I neared
the plane door, I thought to myself what am I doing!”
Hayley Neal has been photographed on the way down from her skydive.
Kettering Branch had a trading stand at the World Conker Championships and were
presented with a cheque for £2,000. The annual World Conker Championships are held
in the village of Ashton near Oundle in Northamptonshire. Since 1965, conker
players from around the world have gathered on the village green to compete for
the world title. The first ever Conker Championships at the House of Commons
between MP’s and the press also raised over £107 for Guide Dogs.
District Fundraiser Chris Smith is pictured with stud dog Riever and members of
molly dancing dance group Pig Dyke Molly, one of the attractions at the World
Conker Championships in Ashton.
Guide dog owner Layton Fowler and his guide dog Hovis recently met Her Royal
Highness Princess Anne at the opening of the housing complex he lives in at
Swansea.
Layton Fowler and guide dog Hovis are pictured here meeting Her Royal Highness
Princess Anne.
Pupils at Queen Elizabeth Grammar School in Alford, Lincolnshire got creative with
10 pence coins and laid the Guide Dogs logo on the floor of their school hall. The
school chose Guide Dogs as their “Charity of the Year” and have raised £4,000 so
far by holding a 24-hour bikeathon, a spring celebration concert and trading
stalls at lunchtime. The school is currently aiming to raise another £1,000 to
reach the £5,000 target to name a puppy. Well done everyone!
Guide Dogs’ volunteer Peter Newsome and guide dog owner Val Liffen have been
photographed with pupils from Queen Elizabeth Grammar School.
During their first year, Stowmarket and District Branch have been busy holding
street collections, attending country fairs, seasonal markets, barbeques and
giving talks. Local people have also contributed to the fundraising effort,
including over £1,525 from Councillor Poppy Robinson, who chose to support Guide
Dogs during her year chairing the District Council.
Members of the Ladies Sunshine Darts Team raised £325 by holding darts evenings
and a garden party. Stowupland Church raised over £187 at their carol concert and
Roella and Graham Trudgill donated £100 from a book sale and coffee morning at
their home. The branch members are extremely grateful to everyone who has
supported them.
Ladies of the Sunshine Darts Team have been photographed with their cheque for
Guide Dogs.
The 16th Airedale Scouts, based at Yeadon Methodist Church near Leeds, have given
£850 to Guide Dogs. The cheque was presented at a church parade by David Greenwood
on behalf of the Scouts to Thelma Wilson, organiser of the Leeds and District
Fundraising Branch. The money was part of the proceeds of the scouts’ bag-pack at
Morrison’s supermarket.
Puppy walker Jean Endersby is pictured with guide dog puppy Patch, Leeds Branch
organiser Thelma with retired guide dog Alma, guide dog owner Stephen Bassett with
guide dog Nick.
Puppy walkers Christine and Stuart Powell recently held a party to mark their 40th
wedding anniversary and asked for donations in lieu of presents. The couple raised
£260 for Guide Dogs and Ian Wonnacott, Okehampton and District treasurer would
like to thank them and their guests for their generosity.
Irene Johnston and guide dog Ricky were presented with a cheque for £5,000 from
the Victoria Shopping Centre in Nottingham by Centre Office Manager Liz Sewell.
Irene Johnston and guide dog Ricky are pictured with Liz Sewell presenting them
with a cheque.
Helen Astridge and Nicky McClymont raised over £3,650 for Guide Dogs by walking
the challenging 95-mile “West Highland Way” in seven days. The route, which opened
in 1980, runs from Milngavie, on the outskirts of Glasgow, to the foot of
Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, at Fort William. Says Helen: “It was a
magnificent walk, which took us through some breathtaking scenery and rugged
landscape. We covered between 9 and 19 miles per day, regardless of the weather or
the midges!”
Helen Astridge and Nicky McClymont have been photographed at the end of their epic
walk
Jacobs, independent jewellers in Reading, raised over £1,500 for Guide Dogs at a
show held at Madejski Stadium, home of Reading Football Club. Chairman of the
club, Sir John Madejski drew the raffle.
Sir John Madejski, Chairman of Reading Football Club, has been photographed doing
the draws for the raffle. The photo is courtesy of Berkshire Life magazine
North Northumberland Branch recently received £375 for Guide Dogs, which was
collected at a memorial service for one of their members, Vera Batson. Vera and
her re-homed guide dog Charlie supported the branch at many fundraising events and
donated prizes for raffles – she will be greatly missed by the branch and her
family.
Warrington and District Branch would like to thank Victoria and Martin Sweeney who
raised £550 for Guide Dogs by running a half marathon and taking part in the Great
North Swim.
Victoria and Martin Sweeney are pictured showing their support for Team Guide Dogs
at the Great North Swim.
Diane Heyder-Bruckner raised £350 for Guide Dogs by completing The Great North
Run. Diane is a vet at Camlas Veterinary Practice in Welshpool and regularly sees
guide dogs at the surgery.
Pictured is Diane Heyder-Bruckner with one of her clients, Colin Jones, and his
guide dog Cedar.
In a past edition of Forward, we told you about Guide Dog Mobility Instructors
Krissie Isaac and Gemma Turner from the Essex and East London District Team, who
were going to sled 250km with a team of huskies from Sweden to Norway over six
days, to raise money for Guide Dogs. Krissie and Gemma are now home from their
challenge and have raised over £6,180 – well done girls!
The Star, a public house and restaurant in Kirkhamgate, Wakefield raised £940 for
Guide Dogs. Restaurant manager Jan Lunn held a Ladies Night and customers John and
Bernice Smithson held an evening of entertainment for John’s 60th birthday.
Landlord Andrew Balderson is a keen supporter of Guide Dogs as his parents John
and Margaret, are puppy walkers.
Wakefield Fundraising Branch are pictured at The Star public house accompanied by
puppy walkers and their guide dog puppies.
Loch Long Hotel in Arrochar, Scotland raised £260 for Guide Dogs by holding a
raffle.
A recent winner of the Guide Dogs Lucky Lottery donated £100 of their winnings
back to Guide Dogs. For information on how you can support Guide Dogs by playing
the Lucky Lottery refer to 26.
Ann Boland and guide dog Kelley raised over £241 for Guide Dogs with a collection
at Tesco supermarket at Aberdare in Wales.
Maureen Clark of Enfield Branch works for Marks and Spencer, which recently
celebrated 125 years of trading. Staff at each branch were asked to nominate a
charity and Maureen nominated Guide Dogs for her branch in the Galleria, Hatfield,
Hertfordshire. Maureen arranged for counter top collection boxes on each till
point, collections outside the store and a car boot sale. Over £710 was raised for
Guide Dogs, which was then boosted by a further £150 from Marks and Spencer Head
Office.
Pictured is Janet Adams, Enfield Branch chair, Marks and Spencer staff Tom Mear
and Jemma Kimble, Maureen Clark, Enfield Branch committee member and Steph
Handley, Store Manager.
Herne Bay, Whitstable and District Branch received a cheque for £3,000 from the
Chestfield Golf Club – Ladies Section, which made Guide Dogs their charity of the
year. Branch organiser Sybil Goodwin and Sheila Burley with guide dog Chrissie
attended a coffee morning to collect the cheque for Guide Dogs.
Sheila Burley has been photographed with her guide dog Chrissie receiving a cheque
from Raye Gibbons, Ladies Captain, along with club member and Sybil Goodwin,
branch organiser.
Homefield Preparatory School in Sutton, Surrey has raised over £20,000 for Guide
Dogs over the last 25 years. The school holds collections every week and is often
visited by guide dog owner Audrey Butler, with guide dog Major, who holds question
and answer sessions with the boys to raise awareness of Guide Dogs. Well done
boys, a fantastic achievement!
Bridget Williams, member of Bristol Branch has done a sponsored sky dive for Guide
Dogs and raised over £900.
Pictured is Bridget Williams celebrating her sky dive.
There are so many ways you can fundraise for Guide Dogs. Visit
www.guidedogs.org.uk/gettogether for tips on organising events along with posters
and invitations to download.
Give a volunteer a “Pat on the Back”
Do you know an outstanding volunteer who deserves an extra big thank you? Why not
nominate them for a special “Pat on the Back”.
Call 0845 3717771 or e-mail vrp@guidedogs.org.uk, tell us who you would like to
nominate and why. Existing volunteers can also use the Volunteer Extranet to make
a nomination.
For more information call the number given previously.
[End of twentieth article]
21 In Good Company.
Guide Dogs working in partnership with local and national businesses
Pictured at the top of this page is puppy walker Mike Barwick, guide dog puppy
Orbie, npower Community Investment Manager Gary Doig and Guide Dogs’ District
Fundraiser Nicola Wilson.
Lunch with Lesley
The Midlands, Wales and West Fundraising Team organised a ladies lunch in
Cheltenham, which was sponsored by the Bottle Green Drinks Company. The 100 guests
enjoyed a two-course lunch, received a complimentary goodie bag and had the chance
to meet some local working guide dogs and pups in training. The author Lesley
Pearse, a big dog lover, attended and donated some signed copies of her books to
the raffle
Pictured at the end of this article is Author Lesley Pearse with Lucy Wiltshire,
Marketing Executive at Bottle Green Drinks Company.
A warm welcome at Bradford and Bingley
Staff from Bradford and Bingley’s head office recently welcomed guide dog owners,
puppy walkers and members of Guide Dogs’ local fundraising team as part of a visit
to raise awareness of the work of the charity. It was also an opportunity for
staff to sign up to Guide Dogs’ payroll giving scheme, a simple, tax effective way
of giving to charity directly from your pay.
Nicola Wilson, Guide Dogs’ District Fundraiser for the North said: “We are
extremely grateful to all the staff at Bradford and Bingley for welcoming us. The
dogs loved all the attention and the volunteers who dedicated their time to visit
the site enjoyed answering all the questions and talking about their experiences
as a guide dog owner and/or volunteer.”
Big support from npower
Guide Dogs is visiting npower sites across the north east of England to raise
awareness of its services for blind and partially sighted people.
Over the coming months, staff from npower will get a chance to meet working and
trainee guide dogs, and will be encouraged to sponsor a puppy, recycle for the
charity and get involved in volunteering and payroll giving.
Thanks to a £20,000 donation, four npower sites are each sponsoring a guide dog
puppy.
Gary Doig, npower’s Community Investment Manager in the North East said: “We’re
delighted to sponsor our own guide dog puppy, Orbie. Guide Dogs’ visits to our
sites will enable our employees to learn more about the great work done by the
charity.”
A Spanish-style donation
Online Spanish food retailer Suculento is donating five per cent of the value of
each order (when using the promotional code “Guidedogs”) to Guide Dogs.
The website sells everything you would need to put on a Spanish feast, from
olives, vinegars and pickles to gift hampers, tapas sets and paella kits.
To find out more, visit www.suculento.co.uk and read about our own special Spanish
import, Camargo, who has joined our breeding programme as a stud dog!
Pictured at the end of this article is Stud dog Camargo. Camargo is a black
Labrador; he is sitting in a field looking at the camera.
[End of twenty-first article]
22 What’s on? Key Events for 2010.
June – “Get dribbling” for Guide Dogs
This month “Get together” fundraising events will take inspiration from the World
Cup. People are encouraged to get together for a kick about and raise vital funds
for Guide Dogs.
16 – 20 June, BBC Gardeners’ World Live, NEC, Birmingham
The BBC Food Show and Gardeners’ World – be sure to visit the Guide Dogs garden!
21 June and throughout the summer – Guide Dogs at School
The national event for school children of all ages to learn about sight loss and
guide dogs. Find out more about Guide Dogs’ curriculum based education resources
for nursery, primary and secondary schools by visiting
www.guidedogs.org.uk/guidedogsatschool or calling 0870 6002323.
July – “Get deuce-ing” for Guide Dogs
This month the “Get together” theme focuses on tennis – invite your friends to
watch the matches and serve strawberry cream teas or organise a tennis tournament.
A great opportunity to have fun and raise money!
10 July, Guide Dogs’ Fun Day, 10am – 5pm, Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire
Come and join us for a fun-packed family day out and take part in the “Guide Dogs
Experience”. The day will feature guide dog and other assistance dog
demonstrations, Ridgewood Falconry Display, sheep and duckling herding, a
children’s activity centre, and much, much more! Entry is free, parking £5 per
car.
13 – 15 July, QAC Sight Village, Birmingham
The UK’s premier event showcasing the latest technology, products and support
services available to blind and partially sighted people. Make sure you visit the
Guide Dogs stand.
August – “Get dining outdoors” for Guide Dogs
Fire up the barbecue, chill the drinks and invite your friends to an outdoor
dinner party to raise money with this month’s “Get together” theme.
11 September, Birdshot Patient Day, UCL Roberts Buildings, Torrington Place,
London
This Patient Day, organised by The Birdshot Uveitis Society, is a unique
opportunity for people with a Birdshot diagnosis to meet and share their
experiences with each other and experts in the field. For more information, visit
www.birdshot.org.uk.
2 – 10 October, Guide Dog Week
This year’s Guide Dog Week will cover two weekends giving more time for street
collections and other fundraising activity. This year’s theme is “extraordinary
partnerships”.
2 – 3 October, Sight Village, Kensington Town Hall, London
The UK’s leading mobility exhibition for blind and partially sighted people. Make
sure you visit the Guide Dogs stand.
13 – 14 November, Discover Dogs, Earls Court 1, London
A great day out for dog lovers in celebration of man’s best friend. The Guide Dogs
stand will be there to raise awareness with the public about our work.
Included in this section is a photograph a fun-packed family fun day, from last
year’s Guide Dog Experience.
All year
“Just Jill” by Jill Allen-King MBE
Guide dog owner Jill Allen-King MBE has written an inspirational and moving
account of one woman’s triumph over adversity and how she has used her own
experience of disability to benefit others. Her autobiography will be stocked in
all good bookshops from 16 July 2010.
For more information, call Jackie Bright on 01255 428500 or e-mail
jackie.bright@apexpublishing.co.uk.
[End of twenty-second article]
23 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 Anne Gillow, Forward, Hillfields,
Burghfield Common, Reading RG7 3YG or e-mail anne.gillow@guidedogs.org.uk.
Annie: 11.7.96 – 5.12.09
Guide to the late Ann Marie McNaught, puppy walked by Helen Macdonald, happy
retirement with Kathie McPhail. Loved by all.
Run free my lovely girl.
Bert: 22.7.00 – 24.2.10
Working guide and companion of Samuel Baxter. Gentle giant. Loved by all. Will be
greatly missed.
Lots of love son and God bless. Samuel and Margaret Baxter.
Bliss: 23.8.96 – 18.2.10
A delight to work, a joy in retirement. You have left an empty space in our
hearts.
Love always, Elaine, Liz, Gibson, Jay and Inca.
Brandy: 21.4.97 – 5.1.10
When I met Brandy, she transformed my life and was my inspiration, and gave me
confidence to meet new friends.
Much missed by all. Ann Baker.
Bryn: 26.2.95 – 25.1.10
First and faithful guide to Joe Richardson. Retired to and loyal companion of,
Cynthia Holt and Lizzie. To know him was to love him.
Goodnight, God bless.
Cardy: 22.3.98 – 18.3.10
Faithfully guided by Brian Stoddart, puppy walked by Mr and Mrs Graham, retired to
Mr and Mrs Alexander.
We were lucky to have you in our lives.
Carl: 27.8.95 – 21.10.09
You left us with great memories. Loved and missed by all the family.
Goodbye our gentle giant. Mr and Mrs Dresser.
Chad: 4.11.00 – 4.2.10
Puppy walked and adopted by Debbie Marchese and family. Always a place in our
hearts for you.
Miss you so much Chadders. Debbie, Mark, Chloe and Adam.
Clare: 28.4.95 – 6.2.10
Guide to Julie Elliott. Puppy walked by Oswald and Marianne Freeman and Gill
Taylor.
A sweet gentle little girl. God bless.
Connah: 29.4.98 – 5.2.10
We were so blessed to have had you in our family.
Loved and missed so very much by so many. Marilyn, Sid and family.
Copper: 1.9.96 – 21.1.10
Loyal friend and guide to the late Tess Rowlands.
Back together again.
Dan: 7.2.95 – 7.5.09
First guide to Yvonne Holt. Loyal companion and gentle giant. Retired to Melissa
Faulkner 2006. Will be sadly missed by all.
God bless.
Davis: 22.8.98 – 6.12.10
Now you have no more aches and pains, sniff everywhere and run free our handsome
little angel. You touched everyone’s hearts.
You will never be forgotten
Dixon: 17.11.92 – 12.9.09
Guide to Steven Rushton. Retired to his puppy walkers Ron and Audrey Pearson. Now
with Ron and Patty
Love and miss you lots bonny lad. Audrey “Mrs”.
Fergie: 25.6.97 – 25.3.10
My Pupsky! You walked beside me for many long years! Now run free for ever.
Goodnight, God bless. Love Mum, Dad and Livvie. (Terry Prater.)
Gable: 19.11.96 – 26.2.10
First guide to John Atkinson. Puppy walked by Kay and David Townes. Retired to
Anne Hewitson.
Much loved and missed by everyone.
Geoff: 1.3.96 – 9.12.09
Guide to Darren Hartland. Much loved, so privileged to have had time with you.
Miss you so much, always remember you, big hugs. Jenny and Dave Reynolds.
Heather: 24.4.96 – 4.1.10
Enjoyed eight years of faithfully guiding Philip Cookson to many meetings around
Bridgnorth before retirement.
Thank you for being such a wonderful friend. Kathy James.
Ivy: 9.2.97 – 1.3.10
Faithful guide to May Lavery. Trained at Forfar by Andrena McIntyre. Happy
retirement with Sheena Simpson and sister Mary.
A gentle and fun loving friend.
Julia: 7.3.96 – 21.1.10
Devoted and faithful guide to Maureen O’Hara. In retirement the gorgeous pet of
Judy and Bryan Gregory. Loved by us all.
Sleep peacefully our treasured Jules.
Lindsey: 15.7.96 – 14.1.10
Wonderful first guide to Jennifer Hayden, puppy walked by Barry and Debbie
Roberts.
A special friend. Thank you for lighting up my life, my golden angel.
Lindsey: 18.9.96 – 13.3.10
My best friend in work and retirement. Sadly missed.
Goodbye Cherub. Love Bettie
Lizzy: 16.6.96 – 23.3.10
Guide to Christine Bailey. Retired to Cynthia and Bryn. Gone to join her pack that
left her behind.
Till we all meet again my love. Cynthia.
Luke: 7.10.96 – 12.10.09
First guide and best friend to Ian Sylvester. The perfect gentleman with a
“smile”.
Deeply missed by all. Forever in our hearts.
Maggie: 21.5.97 – 19.2.10
Faithful guide to Janet Mortimer for 10 years and loyal friend to Tracey. Puppy
walked and retired to Janet Turner.
Best wee girl ever! Rest in peace.
Matthew: 8.5.94 – 28.11.09
Exceptional guide to Alan Johnson.
Beauty without vanity, strength without insolence, courage without ferocity and
all the virtues of man without any of his vices.
Nikki: 18.11.97 – 23.12.09
Second guide to Debbie Allman. Happy retirement with Mum and Deb, peacefully put
to sleep. Brave and courageous during your illness. You are greatly missed.
Orla: 11.3.96 – 4.1.10
Mother to many guide dogs. Brian and Brigitte Barber – brood bitch holders.
Beloved member of the family, and gentlest of companions
Pam: 4.5.96 – 31.1.10
First guide to Pat Worrall, puppy walked by Anne Skinner, happy retirement with
Teresa and Alan Collins.
Loved by everyone who knew her. Sadly missed, never forgotten.
Rumba: 26.6.96 - 9.2.10
First guide and best friend to David Allen. Puppy walked by Deanne Johnston.
Retired to Eve Allen. A beautiful gentle lady.
Love you forever darling Rumpy.
Taylor: 4.7.94 – 12.2.10
Second guide dog to Michele Hazlehurst. My big strong boy led me through life for
nine years. Not gone just in a different garden. Goodnight my boy.
Teddy: 11.8.96 – 23.2.10
Much loved second guide to Andrew Connah. Walked by Mrs Turner. The most
wonderful, adored companion in retirement.
Mum, Dad and Kraken miss you so much Teddy Bear.
Tessa: 24.4.98 – 31.1.09
Callie: 13.10.94 – 4.2.10
Brood bitches and much more, wonderful companions. You were our sunshine, now we
have two more stars in our night sky.
Miss you loads.
Tuppence: 4.4.94 – 2.2.10
Guide to the late Eileen Ashfield. Puppy walked and retired to the Maskell family
of Maidenhead.
Loved and missed by all.
Ula: 10.4.95 – 27.12.09
Sadly put to sleep. Third guide to Joan Smith, trained by Susan Hawkins, stayed
with Joan in her retirement. Will be missed by all who knew her.
Val: 27.10.96 – 10.2.10
Guide to Sue Rothery. Puppy walked by Ron and Audrey Pearson. My guiding angel,
miss you forever. Much loved and sadly missed by all who knew our Vally.
Valdaz: 27.10.96 – 10.1.10
Tollgate stud dog. A gentle giant, loved by all who knew him.
A part of our family throughout his life and greatly missed. The Olivers.
Whitney: 4.7.96 – 10.12.10
Willing guide to Des Maloney, Filey, retired to Ann and Clive Townsend,
Scarborough.
A little dog with a great big heart.
William: 16.3.98 – 17.2.10
Guide to Liz Woskett-Burton. Forever in our thoughts and hearts. A friend to all.
The love and happiness he gave us cannot be put into words.
Yvee (Evette): 21.7.95 – 20.1.10
Loved through her working life and in retirement to Terry and Maureen Yorke. She
gave us unconditional love and Terry’s shadow is now at rest.
Zac: 18.4.97 – 14.11.09
Returned to puppy walker. Loyal friend, missed by all who knew him. Will never be
forgotten.
Love you always, sleep well. Julia Philp.
Zorro: 11.8.94 – 24.2.10
A gentle giant, loved by all. Retired to Glenys and Vernon Goodall for eight
wonderful years. Miss and love you forever. God bless.
Send your tribute to:
Anne Gillow, Forward, Hillfields, Burghfield Common, Reading RG7 3YG or e-mail
anne.gillow@guidedogs.org.uk.
There are photographs of the following dogs, taken is various locations and in
different poses: Annie, Bert, Bryn, Cardy, Chad, Connah, Dan, Dixon, Gable, Geoff,
Lizzy, Maggie, Nikki, Orla, Teddy, Tessa & Callie, Val, Valdaz, William, Yvee and
Zorro.
“My cherished friend - forever in my heart”
Nothing can prepare you for the huge sadness of losing a beloved pet. However,
many people find great comfort in adding their pet’s name to our online Book of
Remembrance – alongside our own cherished guide dogs.
You can also create a personalised page in celebration of your pet’s life, where
you can share special photos and memories of any animal. By making a donation in
your pet’s name you’ll be helping to create another amazing partnership – the one
between a blind or partially sighted person and their guide dog.
To find out more, visit www.giftsinmemory.org.uk/pets, e-mail
giftsinmemory@guidedogs.org.uk or call Joette Emerton on 0118 9838385.
We have flyers and posters to promote the online Book of Remembrance – if you know
any suitable places to put them, let us know and we will send you some.
Pictured to the side of this article is one of the “My cherished friend - forever
in my heart” posters; the poster is mainly blue and white with a photograph of a
small fluffy dog; at the bottom of the poster there is a yellow paw print.
STEP
If you are a guide dog owner, current or retired, and have experienced the loss of
your dog and want to talk to a trained listener who is also a guide dog owner,
call the STEP line on 0845 3727474 between 8am and 10pm daily.
Paws for thought
Guide Dogs has created an online Memorial Book called Paws for Thought, where
working and retired dogs can be honoured with a complimentary listing of their
name in our unique Memorial Book.
Visit www.giftsinmemory.org.uk.
[End of twenty-third article]
24 Letters.
Please send your letters to Forward, Guide Dogs, Hillfields, Burghfield Common,
Reading RG7 3YG or e-mail forward@guidedogs.org.uk.
Forward’s new look is a hit!
I like the new look of Forward. The biggest improvement is that we have proper
captions. I used to find it really disappointing to see people and not know who
they were.
The magazine is very strong on giving us information about fundraising activities
and I love reading the “human interest” articles about guide dog owners. It would
be nice to read more items about things which are of direct interest to puppy
walkers. I know we have our own newsletter, Puppy Times, but it would be good if
we could feature in Forward too; I’m sure puppy walker news would interest guide
dog owners, who do not get Puppy Times.
I’m looking forward even more to future editions of Forward.
Jean Endersby – puppy walker Leeds
Reply from the Editor: Thank you for your feedback. We are hoping to have a
feature on puppy walkers in a future issue.
Audio Forward is “fantastic”…
As a guide dog owner I find Forward magazine on CD fantastic. It gives me a good
idea of what Guide Dogs is up to and also allows me to keep up to date with the
issues for blind and partially sighted people across the country.
Thank you for an informative and thoroughly enjoyable magazine which I look
forward to receiving.
Diane Marks – Hove
My Forward favourites…
I have really enjoyed reading the new look Forward. I found it really informative
with easy to read print, with a good use of colours and layout of the articles.
My favourite articles include the individual experiences of guide dog owners and
the competitions, but I save my favourite section until last…We’ll Never Forget.
Keep up the good work and well done!
Tina Pritchard – via e-mail
Dads are important too!
I’ve just received the Forward magazine for Spring 2010. It’s packed with so many
articles and inspiring stories and is a great read. Well done to all involved.
I’m in print in this issue and so proud to be in New Partnerships. Our second
puppy Ike, has now qualified. Can I ask why you don’t put the stud dog holder’s
name in the magazine? I feel they are just as important as the brood bitch
holders.
I’d like to thank Ike’s stud dog holders and “Team Ike” – the Coxes, the
Standings, my family and friends. Thanks to Tracey and Alison, his trainers, and
Georgina and Mark, his boarders. Finally, Jenny Martin and her team for their
help. Ike wouldn’t have made it without you!
Vikki Holt – puppy walker Redditch
Reply from the Editor: Thank you for your feedback. I understand your point about
stud dogs; it’s something we may consider in the future.
Puppy love
I was thrilled to see the letter from Nicola Croft about her guide dog Wyn. Our
family puppy walked Wyn six years ago. We always hoped she made a good guide dog,
as she was the usual bundle of mischief as a puppy. It’s lovely to know that she’s
still making a difference to someone’s life.
Parting with a puppy is hard, but you hope you are sending them out into the world
to be a good citizen, knowing you gave them a good, loving start in life. Wyn was
originally going to be a brood bitch, but stayed with us longer than expected when
it was decided that she should be spayed. Our retired guide dog Kass still has a
soft spot for black labs.
Nicola Wilson – puppy walker Colchester
Pictured at the bottom of this letter there is a photograph of Guide dog puppy
Wyn. Wyn is a black Labrador, she is wearing a blue guide dog coat and is sitting
side on to the camera.
[End of twenty-fourth article]
25 In memory & in our thoughts.
Hundreds of friends and family attended a service of thanksgiving and remembrance
for the life of Gordon Pattinson in Maryport, Cumbria.
Rod Arthern, Senior District Fundraiser for the North West and North Wales said:
“It was a pleasure and a privilege to have known Gordon and his family. When I
joined Guide Dogs 20 years ago, Gordon had already been fundraising for 35 years.
“He had a fantastic - “can do” - attitude and travelled thousands of miles to
achieve his goals, raising many thousands of pounds and promoting awareness to
recruit dozens of volunteers. Guide Dogs has lost a true ambassador. Gordon will
be sadly missed by all who knew him.” Goodnight and God Bless “Fatha”.
It is with sadness that Claverham, Clevedon and District Branch announce the death
of Daphne Smith on 29 November 2009. She was one of the very early members of the
branch, serving on the committee for 22 years and only retiring in 2002. Daphne
was heavily involved in the organisation of the branch’s annual dog show, which
ran for 20 years, drawing on her knowledge of breeding and showing Labradors. She
was also a regular helper with the monthly Yatton bookstall for over 21 years and
could always be counted on to help with stalls and flag days. Daphne will be
missed by her family and friends.
Guide Dogs would like to express their sincere sympathy on the recent loss of
James (Jim) Delamaine. He and his late wife, Ellen, were supporters of Guide Dogs
for many years and were involved with fundraising in their local area of Tadley.
They sponsored many guide dog puppies over the years and the charity always
remained close to their hearts. It was Jim and Ellen’s wish that a generous gift
would be left to Guide Dogs in their Will and we are truly grateful for this kind
support. Our thoughts and condolences go out to Jim’s family and friends.
Barnstaple and District Branch are sorry to announce the death of Major Archer who
for a number of years was chairman of the branch and a dedicated fundraiser. He
died in February at the age of 92 and leaves a widow, Phyllis. Our thoughts are
with her at this sad time.
Richmond, Twickenham and District Branch are sorry to announce the death of Pamela
Watson, for many years a loyal supporter and branch honorary treasurer. Pam worked
hard at supermarket collections and also knitted covers for coat hangers, which
she then sold to raise money for the branch at various events. Our thoughts and
condolences go to her family.
It is with great sadness that Dunblane and District Branch announce the sudden
death of Julia (Julie) Cuthbertson, their branch secretary for many years. Julie
was a dedicated supporter of Guide Dogs and over the years, she and her husband
Gilmour have re-homed many dogs that were immediately taken to their hearts and
became part of their family. She will be sadly missed by Gilmour and everyone who
knew her, but always remembered for her devoted love and commitment to Guide Dogs.
Julie Cuthbertson has been photographed at the end of this article; she is
standing outside, holding a cuddly toy dog, and in front of her are two of the
many dogs that she rehomed.
Asking for donations to charity in lieu of funeral flowers can be a special way of
remembering a loved one.
We have collection envelopes that can be personalised by us with the name of your
relative or friend.
To request envelopes, please call Joette Emerton on 0118 9838385.
[End of twenty-fifth article]
26 Promotions.
Here are the four advertisements that appear in different places in this issue of
Forward.
Without gifts in Wills, 2 out of 3 guide dogs wouldn't exist
There’s a photograph of three guide dog puppies. Only the middle one is actually
visible as those either side are blanked out and depicted as a dotted outline.
To find out how you could give the gift of freedom to blind and partially sighted
people by leaving a gift in your Will, please contact a member of the team on 0845
6031477 or e-mail us giftofalifetime@guidedogs.org.uk and we’ll be happy to put
you in touch with your local contact.
REMEMBER A CHARITY IN YOUR WILL
Help the work live on...
Running across the foot of this feature is a straight gold line which breaks on
the right hand side to allow room for the Guide Dogs’ logo in blue.
Guide Dogs
LUCKY LOTTERY
In the corner of the title there are five different coloured, numbered, lottery
balls.
To find out more go to www.luckylottery.org.uk or call the Lucky Lottery Helpline
0870 2406993
There is a photo of a small sandy-coloured puppy sitting behind three lottery
balls of various colours and numbers.
Your chance to win with the Guide Dogs Lucky Lottery
Quarterly 1st price of £3,000
Plus weekly prizes of:
1st prize of £1,000
2nd prize of £200
3rd prize of £150
4th prize of £100
5th prize of £50
Plus 95 prizes of £10
Running across the foot of this feature is the FRSB give with confidence logo in
blue; there is also a gold straight line which breaks on the right hand side to
allow room for the Guide Dogs’ logo in blue.
Not to be sold to or by any person under 16 years of age. Licensed by the Gambling
Commission under the Gambling Act 2005 www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk, Licence
number 4946. Entries are restricted to residents of England, Scotland and Wales.
Registered society: The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association, Contact: Jayne
George, Guide Dogs, 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). All
profits from the lottery will be used to fund the work of Guide Dogs. If you feel
you have a problem with gambling, please visit our website for help and advice at
www.guidedogs.org.uk/gamcare or contact the GamCare National Helpline on 0845
6000133
Guide Dogs transforms lives volunteering puts you at the heart of this
You can volunteer for Guide Dogs in many ways and every role helps us achieve our
vision of a society in which blind and partially sighted people enjoy the same
freedom of movement as everyone else.
Whether you choose to volunteer as a puppy walker, fundraiser, boarder, driver, or
by offering organisational or admin assistance, your journey with Guide Dogs will
involve working in great teams, developing new skills and enhancing existing ones,
and having lots of fun.
This text is written in a large yellow heart and is surrounded by images of people
volunteering to help raise money for guide dogs. Circled at the bottom of the
heart is the “Volunteers the heart of Guide Dogs” logo.
To find out more about volunteering with Guide Dogs contact the National
Volunteering Office on 0845 3717771 or e-mail volunteer@guidedogs.org.uk
Running across the foot of this feature, is a dark blue strip with a gold straight
line which breaks on the right hand side to allow room for the Guide Dogs’ logo in
white.
go for Guide Dogs
CHALLENGE EVENTS
This promotion is written over a photo of two tandem skydivers free-falling in a
mainly blue sky with wispy white clouds. To the left of the main image there are a
few smaller images of other people enjoying many events that help to raise money
for guide dogs.
RUN, KAYAK, BIKE, TREK, HIKE, JUMP OR SWIM
Whatever your challenge - go for Guide Dogs
To find out more visit www.guidedogs.org.uk/go or call 0845 6006787
Running across the foot of this feature is a blue strip with the FRSB give with
confidence logo in white; there is also a gold straight line which breaks on the
right hand side to allow room for the Guide Dogs’ logo in white.
[End of twenty-sixth article]
27 New Partnerships.
In a moment we’ll be listing all the newly qualified partnerships; but first, this
edition’s highlighted partnership, which is of , Bridget Carr, Age: 66,
Occupation: Retired and Michele, Age: 2 years 3 months, Occupation: Guide dog.
Bridget lives in Alexandria, Scotland with guide dog Michele and enjoys getting
out and about in her local area. “Having a guide dog has given me my life back and
broadened my horizons,” says Bridget. One of her favourite trips is the short
journey from her home to Balloch Castle on the shores of Loch Lomond, where she
free runs Michele.
Michele is Bridget’s second guide dog and as well as enabling her to live the life
she wants to, Bridget also values the companionship of having a dog. Quite simply,
Bridget describes Michele as “being a wonderful gift” and Bridget would like to
thank the puppy walkers and trainers that have made her partnership possible.
Bridget Carr is pictured at the start of this article with her new guide dog
Michele. Bridget is wearing a light blue jumper and dark blue trousers. Michele is
a yellow-coloured Labrador and is wearing a high visibility harness. Bridget has
been photographed sitting on a bench with Michele sitting at her feet.
Now for qualifiers, who are listed in the following order: Owner, dog, town,
breed, puppy walker and brood bitch holder. Partnerships are listed according to
the district team area they reside in.
Key:
“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
“x” – crossbreed
Bedfordshire and Herts
Ian Brown & Wanda from Stevenage GRxL, Gloria Holmes from Princes Risborough;
Paula McLean from Warwick
Liam Coffey & Hattie from Bedford STPxL, Sarah Keene-Stanley from South Ockendon,
Suzanne Patrick from Rochester; Ruth Wood from Coventry
Carole Fifield & Gorgia from Bedford GRxL, Fran Dawson from Cambridge; Margaret
Cotton from Telford
Bristol
Jill Flynn & Olga from Frome GRxGSD, Hilary Reed from Westbury; Sue Herman from
Warwick
Jacqueline Gregory & Hector from Bristol STPxL, Sheila Stephens from Pontypridd;
Ruth Wood from Coventry
Dennis Harris & Merlot from Minehead GR, Ian Vosper from Exeter; Dr Mary Embleton
from Abingdon
Dorothy Killick & Tamsin from Taunton L, Vera Townsend from Hinckley; Jill Wassell
from Warwick
Kenneth Liesching & Omega from Castle Cary GRxGSD, Chris Butcher from Blyth; Sue
Herman from Warwick
Timothy Mitchell & Uri from Bristol L, Gill Geddes from Edinburgh; Carol Evans
from Stourbridge
Paul Sullivan & Elsie from Bristol L, Carol Jones from Coventry; Suzanne Boggan
from Leamington Spa
Jane Tancell & Della from Clevedon LxGR, Anne Roberts from Edinburgh; Janet &
David Ford from Cheltenham
Cardiff
Jacqueline Clifton & Henna from Cardiff GSD, Elizabeth Bullimore from Pontypool;
Amanda Turner from Shrewsbury
Michelle Evans & Angie from Newport GRxL, Christine Barnacle from Coventry; D
Smith from Chinnor
Derrick Goodwin & Shane from Blackwood L, Brenda Jackson from Stockport; Jill
Gordon-Lennox from Worcester
David Groves & Ulla from Cardiff L, Valerie Rowe from Stafford, Clair Hobbs from
Kenilworth; Jane Cromack from Stratford-Upon-Avon
James Humphreys & Walter from Newport GRxL, Andrew & Hilary Thornton from
Southport; Gail Jackson from Pershore
Kerry James & Roxie from Bridgend LxGR, Beverley Finch from Solihull; Pauline
Kermode from Warwick
Norman Williams & Flora from Chepstow LxGR, Paricia Anne Brown from Otley; Alison
Bayley from Malvern
Roderick Wilson & Neena from Barry L, Linda Jones from Weston-Super-Mare; David &
Sophie Yarwood from Birmingham
Central London
Giles Butler & Elvis from Chiswick GRxGSD, Paula Guy from Sittingbourne; Julia
Evans from Bromsgrove
John Craig & Marley from London LxGR, Doreen Griffin from Reading; Ruth Smith from
Warwick
Sandra Drewell & Kimber from London L, Tricia Baker from Baldock; Dave Penn from
Hemel Hempstead; Edith Preston from Saint Albans; Kathryn Allen from Worcester
Caroline Huntley & Yarna from Harrow GRxL, Carmen Murphy from Swindon; Clare
Shortt from Kidderminster
Michael Lee & Wilson from Catford LxGR, Outside bred
Barry Lewis & Jimmy from London LxGR, Cynthia Duvall from Rochford; Rachel Leason
from Banbury
Neil McBride & Roxi from London L, Maureen Knox from West Malling; Barbara
McMillan from Stratford-Upon-Avon
Amos Miller & Trevor from London L, Kara Heather from Braintree, Michele Green
from Billericay; Janice & Julian Straker from Stratford-Upon-Avon
Heather Taylor & Harris from London GRxL, Margaret Jones from Witham; Trudy Evans
from Coventry
Cheshire and North Wales
Keith Allsopp & Zane from Frodsham L, Helen Murray from Southwell; Dennis &
Valerie Coomber from Malvern
Mark Bagby & Kirby from Mold L, L Beers from Liverpool; Kathryn Allen from
Worcester
Pauline Bradley & Meg from Liverpool GRxL, Keeley Harris from Sheffield; Jessie
Baker from Sheffield; Clare Shortt from Kidderminster
Edward Green & Bradley from Warrington GRxL, Debbie Steans from Derby; Mr Bedding
from Southam
Stephen Horton & Grover from Winsford GRxL, David Barry from Leeds; Margaret
Cotton from Telford
Heidi Musson & Jumble from Wrexham L, Linda Marsden from Blackburn; Jenny Dillon
from Chipping Campden
Richard Peters & Bracken from Wrexham L, William & Christine Neish from Aberdeen;
Mo Armitage from Leamington Spa
Terence Reeves & Alex from Wrexham GRxL, Terry & Deborah Rankine from Harrogate;
Justus Klaar from Stourbridge
Michael Sandeman & Mai from Denbigh LxGR, Brian Hutchinson from Farnworth; Liz
Eley from Warwick
Cumbria and Lancashire
Jayne Connor & Aden from Carlisle GRxL, Robert Ingham from Washington; D Smith
from Chinnor
Colin Fisher & Copper from Lancaster GRxL, Quincey Cattermer from Nottingham
Rhiannon Gardner & Wendy from Isle of Man RxL, Denise Bigg from Manchester; Rachel
Cutler from Warwickshire
Paul Foy & Raffle from Skelmersdale L, Susan Flush from The Wirral; Sandra Boden
from Rugeley
Jean Hancock & Yinka from Blackpool GRxL, Dorothy and Martin Spencer from Bishop
Auckland; Jane Chance from Kidderminster
Angela Hamilton & Hazel from Accrington L, Susan Nuttall from Rochdale; Dianne
Merker from Malvern
Georgina Joyce & Frank from Preston LxGR, Susan Ballantyne from Lancaster; Rachel
Leason from Burnley
Bob Kinghorn & Romeo from Preston GRxL, Gillian Pearson from Bishop Auckland;
Sandra Sweetland from Stratford-upon-Avon
Sarah Lancaster & Candy from Barrow-in-Furness LxGR, Gavin Woods from Doncaster;
Nick Hanson from Coventry
Angela Miller & Josh from Penrith GR, Margaret Kenworth from Holmfirth; David
Thorold from Telford
Angie Robson & Elliot from Carlisle GSD, John Evans from Preston; Margaret Moulds
from Rugby
Claire Whittle & Tamara from Chorley LxGR, Bill Williams from The Wirral; Lynn May
from Northampton
East Anglia
Peter Dale & Amy from Felixstowe L, Jeanette Steeden from Leatherhead; Colin &
Audrey Peedle from Leamington Spa
Justine Duffy & Mia from Thetford LxGR, Carole Arrowsmith from Reading; Jennifer
Watkins from Henley-on-Thames; Ruth Smith from Warwick
Margaret Green & Tammy from Norwich GRxL, Marlene Stanhope from Halstead; June
Griffiths from Worcester
Stanley Grugel & Carlo from Kings Lynn LxGR, Diana Holmes from Tonbridge; Mary
Herbert from Warwick
Brenda Hanks & Paddy from Peterborough GRxL, Eva Evans from Dundee; Pat & Dee
Maloney from Leamington Spa
Genene Henshaw & Susan from Kings Lynn L, Jo Haughton from Cambridge; Suzanne
Boggan from Leamington Spa
Janet Ling & Dixie from Peasenhall GRXL, Margaret Atkins from Billericay
Linda Shawcross & Buntie from Fakenham L, Julie Board from Swanley; Sam Oakley
from Rugby
Pat Stone & Curtis from Dereham LxGR, Betty Dix from Harrow; Nick Hanson from
Coventry
Elizabeth Woskett-Burton & Milo from Peterborough GR, Russell Couch from Halstead;
Pat Scott from Clacton-on-Sea; Chris Pinder from Braintree; David Thorold from
Telford
East Midlands
Bryan Fox & Pluto from Mansfield GRxL, Julie and Brian Mattinson from Pickering;
Andreaand Toby Chester from Stratford-upon-Avon
Ian Bradwell & Iona from Leicester LxGR, Brian & Gwen Wilson from Weston-SuperMare; Jude Jennison from Warwick
Eileen Till & Dina from Belper LxGR, Margaret Neat from Leeds; Janet & David Ford
from Cheltenham
George White & Hugh from Newark GRxL, Charlie Pate from Chester; Elisabeth Peters
from Oxford
East Scotland
Walter Hutton & Freddie from Beith LxGR, Diane & Mark Turberfield from Montrose;
Rachel Leason from Banbury
Helen McLeod & Quiz from Perth L, Sheena Evans from Shotts; Donna Gillbee from
Rugby
Dianne Patton & Penny from Dundee LxGR, Anne Simpson from Nairn; Hazel Cross from
Evesham
Craig Stephen & Ollie from Aberdeen GRxGSD, Margaret Levein from Kirkcaldy, Elaine
Grimes from Forfar; Sue Herman from Warwick
Mark Wallace & Coop from Polmont L, Julie Robertson from Glasgow; Sue Wilkins from
Rugby
Essex
Daniel Chapell & Odell from Stanford-le-Hope GRxGSD, Gill Rackley from Gillingham;
Sue Herman from Warwick
Charlie Coughlan & Gibson from Canvey Island LxGR, Patricia Twite from Chelmsford;
Angela & Les Powell from Coalville
Sheila Luckin & Yoko from Clacton-on-Sea GRxL, Helen Barneveld from Bury Saint
Edmunds; Jane Chance from Kidderminster
June Maylin & Ushka from Stanford-le-Hope L, Rebecca Friday from Cranbrook; Carol
Evans from Stourbridge
Carol Raphael & Annie from London GRxL, Mandy Albone from Colchester; D Smith from
Chinnor
Exeter
Phyllis Edwards & Quiz from Torquay GRxL, Cath Pedreschi from Evesham; Angela
McAuliffe from Warwick
Phil Jenkins & Pelham from Teignmouth L, Kate Price from Ashby-De-La-Zouch; Brian
Green from Birmingham
Mike Jennings & Ben from Paignton GRxL, John Bunney from Pontypridd; Phil Revill
from Southam
Marilyn Lant & Mo from Exeter GR, Mandy Marchi from Nuneaton; David Thorold from
Telford
Lisa Marsden & Quasia from Saltash GRxL, Christine Fowler from Southam; Robert and
Lynda Phipps from Lechlade
Sheila Redmond & Yogi from Sidmouth GRxL, John Hope from Gloucester; Shirley
Birkbeck from Cirencester
Greater Manchester
Gail Brett & Wanda from Manchester GRxL, Patricia Ann Thomas from Jarrow; Gail
Jackson from Pershore
Kath Reding from Cheadle GRxL, Maureen & James Clark from Harrogate
Marie Raynor & Luna from Sale GSD, Angela Bird from Broxburn; Donna Morris from
Telford
Kathleen Wildman & Isla from Leigh GR, Dr Jane Alstead from Wrexham; Suzanne
Priestman from Rushden
Hull
Edith Brain & Quita from York LxGR, Anita Blackburn from Consett; Marion Dennis
from Sutton Courtney
Sally Anne Cousins & Oake from Driffield LxGR, Mr & Mrs Ward from York; Cynthia
Monks from Birmingham
James Walton & Charlie from Hull GR, Geoffrey Helliwell from Sheffield; Outside
Bred
Kent and East Sussex
Gary Dennis & Verity from Bexhill-on-Sea GRxL, Gill Lindsell from Saffron Walden;
Ann-Marie & Kevin Meredith from Kidderminster
Mary Ellis & Clova from Dartford L, Carolyn Lantaff from Rayleigh; John & Mandy
Platt from Solihull
Steven Evans & Jon from Beckenham LxGR, Sean O’Reilly from Cambridge; Ivan Daines
from Cambridge; Julia Pople from Saint Neots; Lynda Graham from Harpenden; Hazel
Cross from Evesham
Mary Knight & Ruby from Eastbourne LxGR, Jo Symons from Andover; Andrea Langlands
from Swindon; Pauline Kermode from Warwick
Graham Lowe & Bramble from Rye GRxL, Carol Oxborough from Addlestone; Sarah Brown
from Farnborough; Antony & Sue Allingham & Sue Harris from Telford
Nicola Soen & Onnie from Deal GRxL, Ed Clayton from Swindon; Caroline & Michael
Evason from Warwick
Michael Thair & Roy from Bromley GRxL, Margaret Smith from Arlesey; Gail Jackson
from Pershore
Alan Tweddle & Andy from Orpington GSD, Janet Curzon from Chatham; Mair Harris
from Droitwich
Wayne Wheeler & Jasper from Gillingham L, Mark Trezise from Dorking; Sue Wilkins
from Rugby
Gloria White & Amber from Westgate-on-Sea GRxL, Amanda Worne from Arundel; Nicola
& Ian Roberts from Craven Arms
Jean Wilson & Meggan from Eastbourne LxGR, Jane Mills from Maidstone; Sylvia & Ro
Soley from Redditch
Merseyside
Roger Debman & Nevin from Liverpool LxGR, Roger Steele MBE from Sheffield; PW
Bowdler from Worcester
Northern Ireland
Martin Baird & Bebe from Ballymoney L, Lucy & Ian Devlin from Perth, Derek &
Margaret Hyslop from Dunfermline; Sam Oakley from Rugby
Jill Hanna & Katie from Banbridge L, Myra Pritchard from Southampton; Donna
Gillbee from Rugby
Colin Jocelyn Orr & Pip from Newry GRxL, Jackie Smith from Gillingham; Gail
Bedding from Southam
Albert Picking & Opal from Carrickfergus GRxL, Debbie Williamson from Glasgow;
Jane Addison from Rugby
Sheffield
Geoffrey Beaumont & Bart from Barnsley L, Hazel Baxter from Leeds; Susan Hayes
from Northampton
Elaine Forster & Suzie from Rotherham L, Stella O’Shaughnessy from Bishops
Stortford; Jill Gordon-Lennox from Worcester
Nicola Gardner & Jasper from Sheffield LxGr, Shirley Charlesworth from Nottingham;
Stuart Toulson from Bridgnorth
Margaret Greere & Poppy from Barnsley GRxL, Patricia & Ronald Whitehead from
Dukinfield; Dawn Moore from Leigh; Jane Chance from Kidderminster
Katherine Greene & Una from Sheffield, David & Christine Fishwick from Burnley;
Jane Cromack from Stratford-upon-Avon
Sheila Hill & Glade from Doncaster LxGR, Ann & Leslie Bland from Burnley; Karen
Young from Warwick
Jill Riley & Bree from Rotherham GRxL, John & Susan Pearson from York; Antony &
Sue Allingham & Sue Harris from Telford
Anne Martin & Enya from Doncaster L, Joan Cairns from Wirral; Sue Robinson from
Worcester
Shires and London Boroughs
Jason Aye & Woody from Isleworth GR, Caroline Willis from Southend-on-Sea; Roger
Walker from Sutton Coldfield
Peter Boakes & Simba from London LxGR, Joan Frogbrook from Orpington; Mr & Mrs
Clarke from Brierley Hill
Sandy Gray & Willow from London GRxL, Jackie Warren from Felixstowe; Pat & Dee
Maloney from Leamington Spa
Ben Harris & Jack from Reading GRxGSD, Joanne Parker from Rayleigh; Beryl Wyrko
from Leicester
Robert Johnson & Vance from Richmond GSD, Jackie Webb from Dartford; Anne
Cadwallader from Southam
Jacqueline Juden & Norris from London, Maggie Gillett from Huntingdon; David &
Dawn Herbert from Leamington Spa
Evelyn Martin & Fudge from High Wycombe LxGR, Chris Dickens from Maidstone; Rachel
Leason from Banbury
Dilys Morgan & Henry from Pinner GRxL, Myriam Steadman from Welling; Elisabeth
Peters from Oxford
Ramin Nejad & Benson from London FCRxR, Nicky Cockcroft from Wokingham; Diane Lord
from Buckingham
Stephanie Smallbone & Nelson from Maidenhead LxGR, Sarah Butler from Leighton
Buzzard; Mr & Mrs Clarke from Brierley Hill
Andrew Taylor & Glade from Milton Keynes LxCCR, Rosemary Parker from Rochford;
Janet Court from Birmingham
John Wilsher & Ozzie from Northolt GRxL, Lynda Petit from Cholsey; Cora Blaver
from Nothampton
Shrewsbury
Martin Anker & Merlin from Cannock GR, Diane Taylor from Cannock; John & Sheila
Newport from Lichfield; David Thorold from Telford
Amy Bagley & Pickle from Halesowen GRxL, Julia Rodwell from Milton Keynes; Pat &
Dee Maloney from Leamington Spa
Michelle Beech & Raffles from Newcastle-under-Lyme L, Frazer Drummond from
Gloucester; Pat Stafford from Grandborough
David Bollington & Nathan from Newcastle L, Brian Ward from Gloucester; David &
Sophie Yarwood from Birmingham
Ian Downing & Sky from Wolverhampton L, Janice Keegan from Solihull; Jill GordonLennox from Worcester
Dr Aidan Flynn & Lyle from Bridgnorth GRxGSD, Christine Short from Paignton; Beryl
Wyrko from Leicester
Zim GRxFCR, Margaret Grewcock from Hinckley; Sue Hollis from Worcester
Andy Lovell & Zed from Newcastle-under-Lyme GRxFCR, Svenjei & Kathleen Erikson
from Torquay; Sue Hollis from Worcester
John Harris & Casper from Willenhall GRxL, Clare Goodson from Oxford
Lee Hayes & Wyatt from Stoke-on-Trent GRxL, Julie Lloyd from Tamworth; Sarah Pagan
from Leamington Spa
Lee Johnson & Sonic from Cradley Heath L, Jacqueline Bushell from Kingsbridge;
Jill Gordon-Lennox from Worcester
Elizabeth Smith & Halley from Walsall, Barry Roberts from Walsall; Margaret Cotton
from Telford
Michael Lacey & Orla from Stourbridge GRxGSD, Wendy Wright from Kettering;
Jeannine Rowley from Leicester; Geoff Renshaw from Kettering; Sue Herman from
Warwick
Patricia Lacey & Gracie from Stourbridge GRxL, Melanie & Barry Elkington from
Kenilworth; Margaret Cotton from Telford
Barbara Oakes & Ella from Stoke on Trent L, Malcolm & Stella Storer from
Leamington Spa; Emma Evans from Leamington Spa
John Smith & Deeva from Stourbridge LxGR, John & Linda Cooper from Willenhall;
Janet & David Ford from Cheltenham
South of Scotland
Leslie Dobson & Thor from Washington GRxL, Mairi & Peter Hughes from Perth; June
Griffiths from Worcester
Deborah McKenzie & Yarrow from Maybole LxGR, Allan Mackay from Glasgow; Jimmy &
Anne Kelly from Alloa; Samantha Reid from Chipping Norton
Southampton
Shelley Atkinson & Hester from Waterlooville GRxL, Lorraine Hillery from
Northampton; Elisabeth Peters from Oxford
Paul Cutress & Trent from New Milton CCRxGR, Pamela Meers from Pershore; Margaret
Hillman from Preston
Brian Hudson & Adam from Fareham GRxL, Debbie White from Bridgwater; Jane Hart
from Cirencester
Maurice McCreery & Blue from Southampton LxGR, George McCaffery from Corsham; Rita
& John Cubberley from Bilston
Charles Murray & Bliss from Southampton GRxL, Shirley McKendry from Exeter; Antony
& Sue Allingham & Sue Harris from Telford
Donald Planner & Alfie from Poole L, Bob & June Owen from Solihull; Outside Bred
Claire Randall & Ben from Swindon GRxL, Carey & Karen Bambrook from Warwick; Gail
Bedding from Southam
Justin Wright & Kyle from Salisbury GRxL, Robert Haynes from Stafford, Mary
Cheadle from Stafford; Rachel Bagley from Coventry
Surrey and West Sussex
Martyn Adams & Yaris from London GRxL, Nicky Cockroft from Wokingham; Clare Shortt
from Kidderminster
Hilary Leacock & Coco from London L, Morag Whatley from Dartford; Brian Green from
Birmingham
Jacqueline McKinley & Chipper from Hove GRxL, David Purl from Bexleyheath; Janie
Lee from Solihull
Teesside, Durham and North Yorkshire
Janet Hann & Mandy from Barnard Castle LxGR, John & Margaret Gibb from Aberdeen;
Ruth Smith from Warwick
Fiona Ferguson & Quiz from Darlington FCRxGR, Diane Raine from Grangetown;
Jennifer Trew from Newcastle; Eva Middleton from Stratford-upon-Avon
George McGowan & Judy from Ripon GRxL, David Barry from Leeds; Margaret Cotton
from Telford
Jack McGrath & Annie from Crook GRxL, Susan & Michael McDade from Dumfries; Justus
Klaar from Stourbridge
Stephen Ward & Jeemie from Peterlee GR, Fiona Pearson from Perth; David Thorold
from Telford
Warwickshire
Gloria Cavner & Ailsa from Leicester GRxL, Anna Roberts from Forres; Jane Hart
from Cirencester
Phoenix Mackenzie & Zip from Port Talbot GSD, Claire Johnson from Kidderminster;
Sharon Simmonds from Lutterworth; Tracey Martin from Stourbridge
Kim Milward & Jolly from Northampton GRxL, John Humphrey from Weston-Super-Mare;
Ralph Crawley from Coventry
Philip Newbon & Percy from Rugby LxGR, Isobel Cooper from Bristol; Joanne & Mark
Watkins from Dudley
Joy Reeves & Lyn from Corby L, Coral Williams from Evesham; Sue Wilkins from Rugby
Gill Sheppard & Vicky from Loughborough GSD, Sue Lobbett from Leamington Spa,
Julia Hurley from Solihull; Sheena Kemp from Coventry; Anne Cadwallader from
Southam
Brian Tipton & Nevis from Coventry L, George & Betty Wright from Dundee; David &
Sophie Yarwood from Birmingham
West of Scotland
Olivia Agnew & Tamara from Glasgow L, Bea Gray from Carluke; Ann Hamilton from
Carluke; Jill Wassell from Warwick
Robert Brownlie & Jess from Glasgow GRxL, Mary & George Chalmers from Grangemouth;
Ralph Crawley from Coventry
Muriel Cargill & Alec from Bathgate GRxL, Alison & Eric Lovie from Aberdeen; Jane
Hart from Cirencester
Bridget Carr & Michele from Alexandria GR, Diane Hankin from Kirkcaldy, Barbera
Maclennan from Saint Andrews; Dr Mary Embleton from Abingdon
Jill Daley & Lucas from Glasgow L, Alison Brown from Melrose; Mrs Thomas from
Leamington Spa
Colin Greenlees & Ryan from Renfrew L, Caroline & Simon Mayson from Dundee, Sarah
& Craig Ramage from Forfar; Barbara McMillan from Stratford-Upon-Avon
Stuart Leith & Umber from Thurso GRxGSD, Dawn Norman from Stirling; Julia Evans
from Bromsgrove
Ann Wallace & Adam from Irvine GRxL, Patricia Clarke from Inverurie; D Smith from
Chinnor
West Yorkshire
Audrey Coldwell & Gemma from Wakefield GRxL, Eric Whitehouse from Ellesmere Port;
Margaret Cotton from Telford
Paul Dakin & Ronnie from Wakefield LxGR, Brenda Wildish from Lytham-Saint-Annes;
Pauline Kermode from Warwick
Stuart Gore & Luka from Leeds GSD, Kath Summerfield from Billingham; Donna Morris
from Telford
Worcester
Janette Barker & Vance from Birmingham LxGR, Iain Lonsdale from Corsham; Lynne May
from Northampton
Bernard Bowden & Chester from Dursley LxGR, Frank & Val Rogan from Crook; Nick
Hanson from Coventry
Christopher Elliott & Harry from Birmingham STPxL, Val Zimny from Dundee; Ruth
Wood from Coventry
Patrick Ingram & India from Hereford GRxL, Maureen & Richmond Day from Tamworth;
Mary & Michael Whatman from Banbury
Malcolm Jones & Danny from Birmingham LxGR, Lorraine Kennedy from Banstead; Janet
& David Ford from Cheltenham
James Norman & Patrick from Worcester GRxL, Marianne Taylor from Tranent; Andrea &
Toby Chester from Stratford-Upon-Avon
Julie Stephens & Veda from Gloucester GRxL, Barry & Teresa Sharp from Denny; AnnMarie & Kevin Meredith from Kidderminster
Breeding Stock
Archie; 11.03.10; GR; Stud; Pauline Goodrich from Leicester; Tony Jose from
Stanford-le-Hope
Barley; 17.02.10; L; Bitch; John Leech from Cheltenham; Louise Smith from Warwick
Betsy; 15.01.10; L; Bitch; John Leech from Cheltenham; Susan Coxon from Nottingham
Calli; 15.01.10; L; Bitch; Nicola & Ian Roberts from Craven Arms; Linda Colclasure
from Rugby; Sheila & Michael Keightley from Rugby
Cassie; 12.03.10; L; Bitch; Robert & Lynda Phipps from Lechlade; Suzanne Dean from
Bridgwater
Coco; 16.03.10; L; Bitch; Robert & Lynda Phipps from Lechlade; Anne Hutton from
Cupar
Dixon; 24.02.10; L; Stud; Roger Stone from Coventry; Alastair & Heather Walker
from Perth
Dusty; 02.02.10; L; Bitch; Darren Ward from Rugby; Karen Barritt from Burnley
Fifi; 24.02.10; L; Bitch; Darren Ward from Rugby; Martin Jackman from Lauder
Flo; 26.01.10; L; Bitch; Darren Ward from Rugby; Carol Vaughan from Grays
Greg; 11.03.10; GR; Stud; Pauline Goodrich from Leicester; Anne Crawford from
Fraserburgh
Jewel; 22.02.10; L; Bitch; Outside Bred; Graeme & Jackie Horne from Turriff
Lily; 18.02.10; L; Bitch; Ann-Marie & Daniel Sparks from Southam; Kath Dunning
from Chard
Lola; 22.02.10; L; Bitch; Ann-Marie & Daniel Sparks from Southam; Anne & Charles
Laird from Leven
Nancy; 18.02.10; GRxL; Bitch; Linda Sheehan from Sutton Coldfield; George Patrick
Ethelston from Ripley
Olma; 09.02.10; GR; Bitch; Julie Chambers from Coventry; Francis Green from
Peterborough
Peter; 12.03.10; L; Stud; Ann-Marie & Kevin Meredith from Kidderminster; Betty
Brown from Melrose
Poppy; 11.03.10; L; Bitch; Ann-Marie & Kevin Meredith from Kidderminster; Robert &
Joan Harper from Beith
Tally; 02.02.10; L; Bitch; John Leech from Cheltenham; Rebecca Forrest from
Southampton
Wispa; 17.02.10; L; Bitch; Ann-Marie & Kevin Meredith from Kidderminster; Alan
Overton from Birmingham
If you have a story to share about your new partnership, contact us at
forward@guidedogs.org.uk or telephone 0118 9838317.
[End of twenty-seventh article]
28 Contact Details.
List of phone numbers and contact details arising from the articles in this
edition of Forward Magazine.
Gifts in Wills
Call: 0845 6031477
E-mail: giftofalifetime@guidedogs.org.uk
Guide Dogs Lucky Lottery
Visit: www.luckylottery.org.uk
Call: 0870 2406993
STEP Line
Call: 0845 3727474
Technowatch
Visit: www.guidedogs.org.uk/technowatch
Eye to Eye Conference
Visit: www.eyetoeyeconference.com
Call: 0118 9838253
Forfar’s Wall of Support
Call: 0845 3727315
E-mail: funraisingsc@guidedogs.org.uk
Tribute Funds
Contact: Joette Emerton
Call: 0118 9838385
Visit: www.giftsinmemory.org.uk
BBC Gardeners’ World Live
Visit: www.bbcgardenersworldlive.com
“go walkies for Guide Dogs”
Visit: www.gowalkies.org.uk
Sponsor Oatie: www.virginmoneygiving.com/gowalkies
Counter-top collection boxes
Call: 0870 6002323
E-mail: collect@guidedogs.org.uk
Facebook page: www.facebook.com/guidedogsUK
Team Guide Dogs
Visit: www.guidedogs.org.uk/go
Guide Dogs’ at School
Visit: www.guidedogs.org.uk/guidedogsatschool
Call: 0870 6002323
Talking Buses Campaign
Visit: www.guidedogs.org.uk/talkingbuses
Research project into guide dog behaviour
Contact: Kate Neal, Research Assistant
Call: 0118 9838189
E-mail: kate.neal@guidedogs.org.uk
National Volunteering Office
Call: 0845 3717771
E-mail: volunteer@guidedogs.org.uk
The Birmingham Botanical Gardens and Glasshouses
Chairman; James Wheeler
Address: The Birmingham Botanical Gardens and Glasshouses, Westbourne Road,
Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 3TR
Visit: www.birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk
Buddy Dog Service
E-mail: sian.caine-southward@guidedogs.org.uk or graham.kensett@guidedogs.org.uk
Nominate a Guide Dog of the Year
Contact: Hannah Robertson
Write to: Guide Dogs, Hillfields, Burghfield Common, Reading RG7 3YG.
Telephone: 0118 9838266
Nominate online: www.guidedogs.org.uk/awards
Terms and conditions: www.guidedogs.org.uk
Guide Dog of the Year Terms and Conditions
Visit: www.guidedogs.org.uk
Competition
Contact: Hannah South
Write to: Forward Competition, Guide Dogs, Hillfields, Burghfield Common, Reading
RG7 3YG.
E-mail: forward@guidedogs.org.uk
Call: 0118 9838138
Get together for Guide Dogs
Visit: www.guidedogs.org.uk/gettogether
Pat on the Back
Call: 0845 3717771
E-mail: vrp@guidedogs.org.uk
Suculento
Visit: www.suculento.co.uk
Birdshot Patient Day
Visit: www.birdshot.org.uk
“Just Jill” Information
Contact: Jackie Bright
Call: 01255 428500
E-mail: jackie.bright@apexpublishing.co.uk
We’ll never forget
Contact: Anne Gillow
Write to: Forward, Hillfields, Burghfield Common, Reading RG7 3YG.
E-mail: anne.gillow@guidedogs.org.uk
Letters
Write to: Forward, Guide Dogs, Hillfields, Burghfield Common, Reading RG7 3YG.
E-mail: forward@guidedogs.org.uk
Share your story
E-mail: forward@guidedogs.org.uk
Call: 0118 9838317
[End of twenty-eighth article]
Close.
This is the end of the Summer 2010 issue of Forward, the quarterly magazine of the
Guide Dogs for the Blind Association. New Partnerships are now presented in a
separate section for ease of use.
[End]