FORWARD: Spring 2014
Guide Dogs presents the Spring 2014 issue of Forward, the official Guide Dogs magazine.
Instructions
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whilst the cursor is within the text of the article title you will be taken straight to the beginning of
that article. If you are using a mouse, press control and then right click on the title to use the
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To return to the contents use alt and left arrow, alternatively if your version of word does not
support this there is a hyperlink back to the contents at the end of each article.
All subheadings in articles are preceded with ++ if you would like to tab through an article by the
subheadings you can type ++ into the search and reach each heading by pressing enter.
Introduction
This document contains every part of the print version of Forward, and in the same order as that
used in the print edition.
Forward
The official Guide Dogs magazine Spring 2014
Guide Dogs Annual Awards
An inspiring celebration
Guide Dogs and technology
News of a cutting edge project
Canine catwalk
Guide Dogs Week 2013 - our best yet
Also inside:
•
Guide Dogs in the media
•
A day in the life of a volunteer driver
•
My Guide in the metropolis
•
Meet Guide Dogs’ new Director of Mobility Services
•
And much more…
Contents
The contents, in order, are as follows:
Regulars - Welcome
Regulars - News
•
Campaigns success earns awards
•
A unique project with young offenders in Scotland
Regulars - View from the top
An exciting future with Guide Dogs’ CEO
Features - Guide Dogs in the media
The best of our TV, radio and print coverage
Features - We really Stood Out for Guide Dogs
The highlights from an incredible Guide Dogs Week
Features - Pleased to meet you
Introducing new Director of Mobility Services, Steve Vaid
Features - On the campaign trail
A round-up of campaigning wins in 2013
Features - Guide Dogs and technology
Cutting edge technology will open up our world
Features - My Guide in the metropolis
Sighted guide volunteers are making a difference
Features - Buddy dogs go the extra mile
Canine friends are changing children’s lives
Features - A holiday that helps Guide Dogs
A relaxing way to support us
Regulars - A day in the life of…
Volunteer driver Terry Cane
Features - A gift that’s full of life
How leaving a lasting legacy can transform a life
Features - Guide Dogs Annual Awards 2013
And the winners are…
Features - The generation game
How each guide dog parent touches so many lives
Features - Climb every mountain
Meet a guide dog owner who’s reaching new heights
Regulars - What’s on?
Introducing Dogs Unite!, a new look for Go Walkies
People and dogs - Thank you to our supporters
People and dogs - In memory
People and dogs - We’ll never forget
Regulars - Letters and caption competition
Regulars - Promotions
Regulars - Contact details
People and dogs - New partnerships
Welcome
++Editor’s welcome
So much has happened since the last edition of Forward. In October, with your help, we had our
most successful Guide Dogs Week ever. Thousands of you took part in hundreds of events,
helping us raise awareness of the everyday challenges faced by people who are blind or partially
sighted, and bringing in hundreds of thousands of pounds to help us continue our life-changing
work. You can read about some of the highlights in the “We really Stood Out for Guide Dogs”
section.
In December we held the Guide Dogs Annual Awards in the glamorous surroundings of the
London Hilton Park Lane. It was a wonderful and moving occasion which really demonstrated the
incredible hard work of our volunteers, the determination of guide dog owners and the amazing
support Guide Dogs receives from individuals and organisations across the UK. Find out who the
winners were in the “Guide Dogs Annual Awards 2013” section.
And don’t miss the feature about the groundbreaking work Guide Dogs is doing with Microsoft and
other companies to make the world a more accessible place for us all - it’s very exciting!
Thank you very much to all those who completed our 2013 Forward reader survey. Early findings
are showing us that you would like to read more about how guide dogs are trained, and about our
work with children and young people, so we will definitely bring you more features on those
topics in forthcoming editions.
I hope 2014 has got off to a great start for you.
Best wishes
Tracey Gurr
Tracey Gurr is pictured within this section, the photo is a head and shoulders shot of Tracey
facing the camera and smiling.
++ The Team
Editor: Tracey Gurr
Editorial Line: 0118 9838811
Contributors: James Kell, Lucy Llewelyn, Hannah Vickers, Rachael Smith, Caoilfhionn Lee
Designed by: Guide Dogs http://www.guidedogs.org.uk
Contributions: Send items to Forward at the Head Office address or e-mail
forward@guidedogs.org.uk. Unfortunately, due to the sheer volume of ideas we receive, we
cannot acknowledge every item. We reserve the right to edit or refuse. Forward is available in
Braille, large print, audio CD and online as audio and text files. It is also available as a PDF from
our website and in a range of languages - for this and mailing enquiries call 0118 9838138.
Founding Editor: The late Captain Nikolai Liakhoff MBE FRZS
Registered Head Office: The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association, Hillfields, Burghfield Common,
Reading RG7 3YG
Tel: 0118 9835555
Fax: 0118 9835433
http://www.guidedogs.org.uk
E-mail: info@guidedogs.org.uk
(Copyright) 2010 Registered charity in England and Wales (209617) and in Scotland (SC038979)
Cover: Amber Le Bon on the canine catwalk
Photo: Gretel Ensignia
Full colour advertising is available in Forward. For information on rates, publication dates and
circulation, please call 0845 3727330 or e-mail forwardadvertising@guidedogs.org.uk. Terms and
conditions apply.
Any products or services advertised in Forward by third parties are not in any way endorsed by
Guide Dogs and Guide Dogs shall not be responsible for the accuracy of any information
contained in such advertisements nor has it investigated or verified any of the information.
On the front cover is a photograph of model Amber Le Bon wearing a green dress, she is holding
a guide dog puppy. The main caption on the cover reads: “Canine catwalk”.
The Guide Dogs’ logo is pictured on the bottom right hand side of the page, the logo is a blue
shield with the text “GUIDE DOGS” written in white, with a picture of a person walking a guide
dog, also in white.
[Back to contents]
News
++The pride of Northumberland
Three dedicated Guide Dogs volunteers have been honoured in the Pride of Northumberland
Awards.
Guide dog owner Tricia Rescigno was named “role model of the year” for raising awareness of
sight loss in the community, fundraising and involvement in the life of her home town, Morpeth.
Alan Stothart was shortlisted for the “community champion” award, thanks to a whole range of
roles he has taken on, including maintenance assistant to the Newcastle Mobility Team, guide dog
boarder and exerciser, and fundraiser.
Finally, 18-year-old Charlotte Stephenson was shortlisted for the “child of achievement” award.
She has been fundraising for Guide Dogs for two years and, having recently qualified with her
first guide dog, she’s now a passionate advocate for Guide Dogs.
Included within this article is a photograph of Tricia Rescigno receiving her award.
++Paws for Progress in Scotland
Phyllis Burden and her guide dog Tyler are part of a unique training programme taking place at
the Polmont Young Offenders Institute in Scotland. “Paws for Progress” is the UK’s first and only
prison-based dog training programme, in which young offenders are taught how to train and care
for rescue dogs. The programme has had a significant impact on the young men, helping them to
make positive changes for the future. Contributing to their changing attitudes are volunteers such
as Phyllis, who talk to them about the difference a dog has made to their lives. Inspired by its
impact, Phyllis is now part of a steering group that hopes to set up a social enterprise to deliver
similar projects in a range of community settings.
Included here is a photograph of Phyllis Burden with guide dog Tyler, wearing his working
harness.
++Will 2014 be a “safe and sound” year?
It has been an exceptionally busy end to 2013 for our Safe and Sound campaign on quiet
vehicles. All year we’ve been campaigning for the installation of mandatory sound generators on
quiet electric and hybrid vehicles - to help pedestrians who can’t see a car coming still know when
it’s safe to cross a road. We held a parliamentary reception to raise awareness, worked with key
decision makers to influence European level discussions, and MP’s even debated the issue in
Westminster!
We are indebted to all those supporters who’ve helped the campaign by taking action online at:
http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/safeandsound. We’re delighted it has now been agreed that all
electric and hybrid vehicles will be fitted with mandatory sound generators from 2019 - a huge
step forward from this time last year, when there were no plans for mandatory sound technology.
Visit our website for more information on how you can help.
++Campaigns Team scoop awards
The success of our Safe and Sound campaign illustrates just how effective our campaigns can be
in ensuring that people with sight loss have their freedom and independence. Guide Dogs’
Campaigns Team works extremely hard alongside people who are blind and partially sighted and
their efforts were recently recognised when they scooped two prestigious awards at the Public
Affairs News Awards.
These were Best Party Conference Stand - our crazy golf course, highlighting the problem of
street clutter, was judged to be exciting, innovative and good value for money; and In-House
Team of the Year - recognising a team which has had an outstanding year in influencing public
policy. Thank you to everyone who’s helped make this such a successful year for our campaigns.
Included here is a photograph of the Campaigns Team receiving their Best Party Conference
Stand award.
++An inspiring conversation
BBC Radio’s “The Listening Project” is capturing the nation in conversation to build a unique
picture of our lives today. Those conversations include one between guide dog owners Al Winton
and Dave Heal, who talk about coping when their guide dog comes to retirement. So inspired was
one listener by their moving description of what each guide dog means to them, that she donated
money she had raised at work to Guide Dogs. To listen to Al and Dave’s conversation, visit
http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b03g0936
++Guide Dogs funds potential research breakthrough
Research funded by Guide Dogs could lead to a breakthrough drug for treating major causes of
blindness. Experts at Manchester University have been looking at ways to develop a drug, based
on a substance called opticin which occurs naturally in the eye. If the drug works it could
potentially preserve any remaining vision people have and lead to less invasive eye treatments.
Within this article is a photograph of a lady having an eye test.
++A match made in Pontypool
Pontypool RFC has chosen Guide Dogs Cymru as its charity of the season for 2013/14. It’s a
perfect match as both organisations have strong roots in the local community. Many guide dog
owners are avid rugby fans who love the match day buzz. Among them is Christian Hyde, a
former player and referee, who lost his sight through diabetes. “People ask me how I can see the
game and I tell them “I can’t!” - but I know what’s going on before the players do.” The club
hopes to raise enough to name a guide dog puppy and will invite fans to choose the name.
Pictured here are Pontypool RFC captain Luke Dyckhoff, Christian Hyde and guide dog Sasha and
Steve Kersley, Volunteer Development Co-Ordinator for Guide Dogs Cymru.
++Aberdeen Ball spectacular
For a second successive year, the Aberdeen fundraising group have staged the spectacular
Aberdeen Ball, raising just under £30,000. Local guide dog owner Mary Rasmussen addressed the
200 guests and spoke about her experiences of being a guide dog owner. “We had great fun but
it was all for a serious cause,” said Bill Duguid, chair of the Ball committee. “The generous guests
have made a vital contribution to the lives of guide dog owners like Mary.”
Included here is a picture of some of the guests sitting around a table at the Aberdeen Ball, they
are all facing the camera and smiling.
++A free pass for puppy walker
Chalkwell Bus Company, in Kent, has given a free bus pass to puppy walker Vanessa Johnson as
part of its bid to support local charities. Vanessa asked for the pass to help her young guide dog
puppies gain confidence in travelling by bus. Mobility Services Support Worker Sue Philippe said:
“The help we receive from transport companies and other service providers in allowing puppy
walkers access with their puppies is hugely appreciated and vital in the development of our young
dogs.”
++A very welcome surprise!
We are always looking for support from local businesses, for example to sponsor a puppy training
class or venue. Their generosity still has the power to surprise us though. Gary Heginbottom,
Director of Artisan Fireplace Design Ltd, recently offered to sponsor puppy classes held in
Brighouse, West Yorkshire. “I waited to hear how many classes he would sponsor,” explains
Puppy Training Supervisor Nic Morgan, “thinking maybe six months, but he said forever! What a
guy!”
++Best friends Conor and Kassie on TV
21-year-old Conor Thompson, from Crumlin, Northern Ireland, and his best friend, buddy dog
Kassie, were recently featured on Ulster TV’s The Magazine. His parents spoke about the
difference that Kassie’s arrival has made to the whole family. Living with autism as well as sight
loss, Conor had become increasingly withdrawn. Thanks to Kassie, he has now grown in
confidence and become more involved in family life.
Within this article is a picture of Conor sitting on a bench with Kassie sitting patiently beside him.
++Touch and go
Guide Dogs has been involved in the creation of a three dimensional map of the route from South
Kensington Station to Hyde Park. The map has been unveiled to help people with sight loss find
their way down one of London’s busiest streets. It is the result of extensive work with a specialist
tactile design team, Guide Dogs and various consultation groups. We hope that other local
authorities will now follow their lead.
Included here is a picture of the map being used.
++Getting active with Guide Dogs NI
Guide Dogs’ Belfast Mobility Team has launched a new partnership with events organisation
“parkrun” to enable people who are blind or partially sighted to get active.
parkrun organise free, weekly runs across the UK, encouraging people of all ages and abilities to
take part. The Belfast team is working with them to train volunteers as sighted guides at
locations across Northern Ireland. There’s also scope for the volunteers to be trained as running
guides, giving people with sight loss the support they need to take part.
Engagement Manager Andrew Murdock says: “This is going to provide better opportunities for
people with sight loss to exercise within their local community. And for young people, it’s also a
great way to improve movement, spatial awareness and confidence.”
Pictured here is George Foster being guided by Gary Moore.
++In brief
Everyone should be able to enjoy reading their favourite books. NBCS’s CustomEyes popular
fiction and non-fiction titles are tailor-made in suitable formats for blind and partially sighted
children and young people up to age 25. Please call 0118 9838346, e-mail
customeyes@nbcs.org.uk or visit http://www.nbcs.org.uk/customeyes
Pictured here is a young girl with a book in large print on her lap, she is pointing at a big pile of
books.
++Pascoe gives Linda his support
Like every other puppy Linda Myatt has walked, Pascoe sits quietly at the Leeds Blood Donor
Clinic every two weeks while Linda donates platelets. Staff love to see Pascoe and it’s good for his
socialisation training too.
++Fisherman’s tale
Congratulations to guide dog owner David Young, who beat off stiff competition to win the Jack
Charlton Disabled Anglers Cup at Kielder Water. His winning catch of rainbow trout weighed in at
14lb 3oz.
Pictured here is David Young being awarded the cup by Jack Charlton.
++A ferry tiring trip for Lily
Captain Alistair McCarlie of the Stenaline Belfast/Cairnryan ferry kindly invited Northern Ireland
puppy Lily, walked by Heather Gilmore, to the ship’s bridge to meet his crew. Lily smiled for the
camera, then promptly fell asleep!
Included here is a picture of Captain Alistair McCarlie kneeling down next to Lily.
++Wedding belle
When Lynn Leverett got married last October, one of her bridesmaids was guide dog Omega.
Lynn says: “With hindsight, having a beautiful guide dog as a bridesmaid was a duff idea,
because no one noticed the wrinkly old bride!”. We’re sure that’s not true, Lynn!
Within this article is a picture of Omega at the wedding, wearing a garland of flowers.
[Back to contents]
View from the top
++View from the top
Chief Executive Richard Leaman shares his views
One of the things I enjoy most about being Guide Dogs’ CEO is the number of amazing stories I
hear. This year’s Guide Dogs Annual Awards featured some of the most heartwarming I’ve ever
heard - about our incredibly committed volunteers; about people who are campaigning with us to
break down the barriers that prevent people with sight loss getting around; about inspirational
guide dog owners - and, of course, the brilliant dogs they’re partnered with.
It’s great to have a special evening to celebrate some of our stories - our audience of supporters
and celebrities were all very moved by those they heard. But what I find most extraordinary is
that we generate more stories every single day. In 2013, we created 840 guide dog partnerships
- each one with a story behind it. We also created over 800 partnerships through My Guide, our
service which matches volunteers to blind and partially sighted people who want to increase their
confidence in getting out and about. That’s 800 more stories of people living the lives they want
to live, and it doesn’t include the 11,000 times our My Guide volunteers have been able to offer
an arm to a person with sight loss, as a one-off event. As we continue to train thousands more
“My Guides”, we’ll really start to tackle the fears people have around sight loss and to create a
society that understands, and addresses, the needs of people who are blind or partially sighted.
We’re also working with hundreds of children whose stories are just beginning. Last year alone we
worked with around 700 children and young people, and that number is set to increase now that
the National Blind Children’s Society is part of the Guide Dogs family. And before these children
are too much older, we hope the cutting-edge work on technology we’re doing with Microsoft and
other major organisations will have made the world a more accessible place for people who are
blind or partially sighted to move around in.
Some of our stories are hard-hitting - they have to be, to get the attention of those in authority and, in terms of campaigning, 2013 was a huge success. In April, the government announced
that microchipping all dogs in England will be compulsory by April 2016 - a year sooner in Wales.
The government also revealed that dog attacks on assistance dogs will be treated as a much
more serious offence, and, as you’ll have read in the news pages, EU decision makers took
further steps towards the mandatory installation of artificial sound generators in quiet vehicles,
thanks to over 20,000 e-mails from supporters of our Safe and Sound campaign.
The story of Guide Dogs stretches back over 80 years, during which time we’ve transformed
many thousands of lives. I am convinced that the most exciting chapters of the story are yet to
come - I hope you’ll help us write them.
Included within this article is a picture of Richard Leaman wearing a suit, he is facing the camera
and smiling.
[Back to contents]
Guide Dogs in the media
++Guide Dogs in the media
TV, radio and the print media are all vital in raising awareness of Guide Dogs and our lifechanging work. Here are some of our recent highlights from what have been a very busy few
months.
++Guide Dogs Week 2013
We started our biggest ever media campaign in September with the launch of Guide Dogs Week
2013 (and turn to the “We really Stood Out for Guide Dogs” section for some amazing
descriptions of what went on). This included the canine catwalk, which featured in national papers
including The Daily Telegraph and The Times and the Four Legs Tour, which was featured across
many local papers.
++Guide dog owners denied access
Guide dog owners are still being denied access to shops, restaurants and taxis. This story was
picked up by national radio stations such as Sky News Sunrise and BBC Radio Scotland,
newspapers such as the Daily Mirror and The Sun and important industry title Taxi Newspaper, as
well as more than 50 local newspapers and radio station websites.
++Pavement perils
Poorly maintained pavements hit the headlines with newspapers such as The Daily Telegraph and
Metro picking up on a survey commissioned by Guide Dogs that found that two out of five people
with sight loss are reluctant to leave their home for fear of tripping.
++Channel 4 Dogs: Their Secret Lives
Guide Dogs featured in a prime-time Channel Four documentary looking at how dogs behave
when they are alone and how they have coped with the changes in human lifestyles over the last
50 years.
The crew visited Guide Dogs’ National Breeding Centre to learn about our breeding programme,
and presenter and TV vet Marc Evans spoke with a number of staff about how they ensure the
quality of our life-changing future guide dogs.
++BBC Midlands Today
The regional news programme has started a long-running series of stories following the journey
of a guide dog puppy, Zeus, from puppy walking through training and being matched with a
client. In the first episode, viewers experienced the National Breeding Centre and met young
guide dog owner Amy Kettle and first time volunteer puppy walker Simon Earp.
++Hello!
In the 2 December edition of HELLO! Magazine, Model Amber Le Bon spoke of the “wonderful
experience” she had when she took part in our canine catwalk as part of Guide
Dogs Week.
Pictured here is Amber Le Bon holding a guide dog puppy, Amber is facing the camera and
smiling.
[Back to contents]
Guide Dogs Week
++We really Stood Out for Guide Dogs
Well, what a week. From firewalking, football and fashion shows to collections, cocktails and
castles - Guide Dogs Week 2013 was a spectacular success.
A huge thank you to everyone who got behind our theme - Stand Out for Guide Dogs - promoting
awareness of our life-changing work and raising money to help us continue it. We’ve rounded up
some of the highlights for you.
Amidst all the glamour, fun and excitement of Guide Dogs Week, we also got across some hardhitting messages about the daily challenges people who are blind and partially sighted face every
day. From access to restaurants and shops to perils on the pavement, Guide Dogs Week really
helped us tackle some important issues for people with sight loss. And, of course, it also helped
bring in much-needed funds to help us continue our life-changing work. From major national
activities to local “Let’s Glow” events, with your help we raised hundreds of thousands of pounds.
Next year’s is going to be even better - please put the date in your diary: 4-12 October 2014.
++The bold and the brave
There seemed no limits to what people were prepared to do to Stand Out for Guide Dogs.
Ian Baxter-Crawford from Belfast Mobility Team joined 40 others in an amazing firewalking event.
76-year-old guide dog owner Harold Smith zipwired across the Manchester Canal.
Along with our illustrious cover star, model Amber Le Bon, glamorous guide dog owners graced
our canine catwalk across London’s Millennium Bridge.
Included within this article are three photographs, one is of Ian Baxter-Crawford firewalking. The
next is of Harold Smith on the zipwire, and finally there is a photo of Amber Le Bon standing with
the guide dog owners on the Millennium Bridge.
++The launch
What better way to launch our Guide Dogs Week campaign than lighting up the EDF London Eye
in yellow - the colour of our iconic guide dog harness?
Two guide dogs hitched a ride!
120 people took part in our Stand Out Go Walkies along the Thames.
Included here are three photographs, the first is of two guide dogs on the London Eye, the second
is of the London Eye lit up in yellow. Finally, there is a picture of some of the people who took
part in the “Stand Out Go Walkies” along the Thames.
++The Four Legs Tour
The intrepid guide dog owners who made up Team GD visited famous places across the UK, as
part of the Four Legs Tour.
Staff and volunteers Stood Out for Guide Dogs at Brighton Pavilion.
Nigel Dunt and Denby conquered Snowdon together.
Sage the guide dog found himself surrounded by Cats in Glasgow (the cast of the stage show,
that is) at King’s Theatre, Glasgow.
Included here are three photographs, the first is of the staff and volunteers with some of the
guide dogs outside Brighton Pavilion, the second is a photo of Nigel Dunt and Denby after they
had conquered Snowdon together. Finally, there is a picture of Sage with some of the cast of Cats
gathered around him.
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Pleased to meet you
++Pleased to meet you
Our new Director of Mobility Services, Steve Vaid, came to us via oil rigs in Aberdeen and villages
in Rwanda. He shares some highlights of his journey and his hopes for Guide Dogs.
It’s fair to say that Steve’s career path hasn’t exactly been traditional. Originally from Coventry,
he did an apprenticeship with Shell, spending time on Scottish oil rigs, before graduating as an
electrical engineer. He then joined multinational company Price Waterhouse as a project
management specialist. After several years working in countries as diverse as Saudi Arabia,
Lebanon and Ireland, Steve found himself in the unenviable position of having to make 4,500
people redundant.
“It was a real turning point,” says Steve. “I thought, “do I carry on with this, or should I do
something which makes a positive impact on people’s lives?” I was already volunteering with
SeeAbility, the charity for people with sight loss and multiple disabilities; I could see the
difference that made and I decided working for charities was the way forward for me.”
Following posts with the Design and Artists’ Copyright Society and King’s College Students’ Union,
in 2009 Steve and his wife Kristenne applied to do Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO). They soon
found themselves in Rwanda, living in a local community on £5 per day and experiencing frequent
water shortages and power cuts.
“It was hard but inspiring,” Steve recalls. “We worked with people who had many different
disabilities, including sight loss. I spent time with the Rwanda Union for the Blind and we taught
visually impaired children to play cricket. We brought the England blind cricket team over and
children came out of local schools to watch - it really brought the community together.”
Steve was so inspired by working with blind and partially sighted people in Rwanda that, after a
year, he applied for the post of Director of Operations with Action for Blind People back in the UK.
Whilst there, he got to know Guide Dogs very well as the two charities often work together.
“The more I found out about the lives of people who are blind or partially sighted,” says Steve,
“the more I realised how much comes back to freedom of movement. Whether you’re talking
about employment, leisure or education it all comes back to being able to get out and about on
your own terms. Obviously independent mobility is at the heart of Guide Dogs’ work, so I jumped
at the chance to become Director of Mobility Services.”
So, having been here for six months, what has Steve discovered about Guide Dogs?
“It’s an incredible organisation,” he says, “with a brilliant vision, an amazing heritage and people
who go the extra mile every single day. I’m passionate about bringing all our services together to
reach thousands more people who are blind or partially sighted.
“From my experience in Rwanda I know how vital it is to support young people with sight loss in
particular, so I’m especially enthusiastic about our growing work with children. I feel very lucky
because I don’t think I could have joined Guide Dogs at a more exciting time.”
Included here are three pictures, the first is of Steve Vaid with a blindfold on, being guided
around some obstacles by a guide dog, the second is of Steve kneeling down next to a guide dog.
Finally, there is a picture of Steve in the office with one of his colleagues.
++The lighter side
We asked Steve
What’s on your ipod? ACDC, 90’s dance and Bollywood film music!
What’s the last film you saw? Peppa Pig (with Alf, our two-year-old son)
Real ale or single malt? Real ale - I’m from Warwickshire
Football or cricket? Cricket - ditto!
If you were a dog, what breed would you be? A jack russell because of their terrier spirit - they
don’t let go, they’re friendly, and we have one called Tuppy.
Pictured within this section is Steve sitting at his desk and laughing.
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Campaigns
++On the campaign trail
Guide Dogs campaigns on issues affecting the lives of people who are blind or partially sighted.
2013 was our most successful year yet and will really make a difference to people with sight loss.
++Safe and Sound
November saw the final EU negotiations about quiet vehicles - which can be very dangerous if
you have sight loss. After receiving more than 20,000 e-mails from supporters of our Safe and
Sound campaign, decision-makers agreed on the mandatory installation of artificial sound
generators in new vehicles from 2019.
++Talking buses
We don’t want buses to be too quiet either! We want them to talk to passengers, giving
information everyone can hear. After receiving evidence from Guide Dogs, a committee of
influential MP’s agreed Talking Buses would make travel easier for everyone. Now we just need to
convince the Government!
++Streets Ahead
138 MP’s visited our award-winning “Street Clutter Crazy Golf” stand at this year’s party
conferences. The Campaigns Team dressed as golfers and invited attendees to avoid obstacles
made up of common items of street clutter, such as shop advertising boards, to promote our calls
for clearer streets.
Included within this article is a picture of Nick Clegg meeting members of the Campaigns Team,
who are dressed in their golf outfits.
++Dog attacks
The best news we received all year came in April when the Government announced proposals to
treat dog attacks on assistance dogs as a more serious offence. We hope this will become law in
early 2014.
Help us make 2014 even better! E-mail campaigns@guidedogs.org.uk call us on 0800 0284348,
follow us on twitter @gdcampaigns or visit http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/campaigns
[Back to contents]
Guide Dogs and technology
++Guide Dogs and Microsoft - working together to open up our world
Imagine a world where everyone, including people with sight loss, can make safe, enjoyable
journeys across our towns and cities whenever they want to, getting up-to-the-minute
information as they travel. Guide Dogs is now working with Microsoft and other household names
to make this a reality.
The internet and other forms of technology have transformed the world for all of us, including
those who are blind or partially sighted. But what else could technology do to support people with
sight loss to get around on their own terms?
Guide Dogs is working with Microsoft and with many other big name companies - Tesco and
Network Rail to name just two - to develop and install technology which will make the world a
more accessible place.
++A Family Day Out
In 2012, we made “A Family Day Out”, a short film illustrating how future technology could
greatly enhance journeys for people with sight loss, within two to five years from now. You can
check it out on our website: http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/makeithappen
Using the experiences illustrated in the Family Day Out film, we’re now developing the Family Day
Out Programme (FDOP) - a much bigger and very exciting project.
++The journey
Our aim is to bring alive the ideas illustrated in “A Family Day Out” through a real-life journey
taken by a blind or partially sighted person, from Reading in Berkshire to London and back. The
journey will involve taking different forms of public transport, using shops, boarding buses and
trains, and visiting a popular attraction.
At every stage of the journey, the traveller will use personalised technology to make the
experience as simple, pleasurable and interesting as possible, increasing their confidence and
wellbeing, and reducing anxiety.
The technology will partly consist of a headset and hand-held device, which will pick up
information from the environment. For instance, if the person walks by a coffee shop in the
station, the device can potentially give information about the shop if the person wants it to; it will
also provide information about delays to trains.
The journey will take place in two phases during 2014 - we’ll keep you posted on it in Forward.
We’re working with a long list of major organisations on the Family Day Out Programme. As well
as Microsoft, we have a partnership with Future Cities Catapult, one of seven centres sponsored
by the UK government to enable businesses and researchers to work together to bring new
products and services into the commercial world more quickly. Others include:
Tesco, Satellite Applications Catapult, Network Rail, Greater London Authority, ARUP, Berkshire
County Blind Society, Virgin Media, Peter Brett Associates, Open University, Reading Borough
Council, University College London, Helen Hamlyn Institute, First Great Western
All these organisations hold a piece of the jigsaw; only by working together can we deliver a
complete solution to solve the mobility puzzle.
++A world open to all
The Family Day Out Programme is helping create an environment which everyone can easily
navigate their way around. Indoors and outdoors, on public transport and in shops, entertainment
venues and public buildings, it will make a positive difference to everybody - whoever they are,
and whatever disability they may have.
The technology won’t take the place of a visually impaired person’s main mobility aid - be that a
guide dog, sighted guide or long cane. What it will do is enable people with sight loss to pick up
the same information as everyone else from the environment they’re in, greatly enhancing their
experience and enjoyment when out and about.
++Children and technology
For many children with a visual impairment, technology can be a lifeline. Using specific equipment
and software, children can access the same technology as their sighted peers, such as tablet
computers, smart phones and even adapted bicycles.
The Access Technology Service run by the National Blind Children’s Society helps children and
their families make the most of what’s available, providing tailored information and advice to
parents, schools and other professional agencies about the benefits of technology.
Even for a very young child, technology can make a big difference, so the National Blind
Children’s Society works with children from birth. The service continues with young people up to
age 25, helping ensure they have the same education and employment opportunities as everyone
else. The service also runs a grants programme to help parents buy specialist technology or
sensory equipment.
For more information, please call 0118 9838329 or e-mail lucy.winton@nbcs.org.uk
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My Guide
++My Guide in the metropolis
Put together a 35-year-old IT worker and a 70-year-old piano teacher with sight loss and what do
you get? A very fruitful and life-changing My Guide partnership.
Sunethra Goonewardene’s confidence was severely knocked after she fell and broke her arm.
Until then, she had relied on her guide dog, Beau, but doctors advised her not to work with Beau
while her arm was healing. The loss of independence was a potentially devastating blow for
Sunethra as she normally enjoys a packed schedule, including teaching piano and volunteering as
the chairperson for a local self-help group.
For Sunethra to get her life back on track, she needed help rebuilding her confidence - and that’s
where Daniel Hyams, from Finsbury Park, London, stepped in. This was his third My Guide
partnership and he really enjoyed it: “I looked forward to doing it, which is important for a
partnership to work.”
Sunethra and Daniel made the most of their weekly outings, visiting places such as London’s
Guildhall, where they took an audio descriptive tour. Daniel also helped Sunethra increase her
walking speed, so she and Beau can work together more comfortably. Sunethra describes Daniel
as “really lovely and wonderful as a guide, falling into step naturally”.
Included here is a picture of Sunethra and Daniel taking a walk with guide dog Beau. The caption
reads, “Daniel is really lovely and wonderful as a guide, falling into step naturally.”
Also from London, 93-year-old Helen Dunning came to the UK during the Second World War.
Since then, she’s lived in Primrose Hill and knows a lot about the area. However, her eye
condition meant she didn’t feel comfortable going out alone, especially in the evenings, so Guide
Dogs matched her to My Guide volunteer, Christine Hall-Maiden. Since being partnered together,
Helen’s life has been transformed as she has been able to do things she could not do on her own,
such as her Christmas shopping.
The two have formed a great relationship and admiration for each other. Chris loves Helen’s
sense of humour and Helen describes Chris as “a very intelligent and sweet volunteer.”
Included within this article is a picture of Helen and Christine sitting on a wall together, they are
both facing the camera and smiling.
++Guide Dogs’ My Guide service is available to anyone with sight loss, reducing their isolation by
giving them the confidence to get out and about. For My Guide volunteers, it’s a great way to
learn new skills and know you’re making a real difference to people’s lives. To find out more,
please e-mail myguide@guidedogs.org.uk or call 0118 9838187.
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Buddy Dogs
++Buddy dogs go the extra mile
A buddy dog is more than just a friend. A buddy dog can transform the life of a child with sight
loss and their family, and, in some cases, not just one child but a whole school of children!
Buddy dogs start their training as guide dogs but, for various reasons, are withdrawn from
training - like Vinny, whose temperament was so calm and laid back that he was reluctant to take
the lead and guide his trainer. Making the decision to withdraw a dog is difficult but it’s easier
when there’s an obvious alternative “career” that will be equally life-changing. For Vinny, life as a
buddy dog was the perfect match.
Vinny is already making a big difference to seven-year-old August, who was born with cataracts
in both eyes, and her family. Vinny’s role is to support August as well as to provide
companionship - he is a reassuring presence in her bedroom at night, for example, and comes
with her if she wakes up and needs to go to the bathroom. August’s Mobility Instructor, Allison
Rowles says: “August loves Vinny and handles him really well already - you can see how proud
she is of him.”
Vinny was part of our Sponsor a Puppy scheme, with sponsors receiving regular “Pupdates”
following Vinny’s journey from six weeks old. To find out how you can sponsor a puppy, please
call 0870 2406993, or visit http://www.sponsorapuppy.org.uk
Included within this article is a picture of August with her family and buddy dog Vinny, walking
down the street.
++Buddy dog Teal is based at the Piper Hill Specialist Support School near Manchester, where
she’s making a tremendous difference to many of the children. She even has the unusual
distinction of being mentioned in the school’s Ofsted report: “The school goes the extra mile to
ensure students have a happy time, for example introducing buddy dog Teal. She has become a
much-loved member of the school community and enables students to develop a sense of
wellbeing.”
Teal helps pupils in many ways - as a sensory experience, as a way to teach responsibility, as a
reward to improve behaviour, helping to improve communication skills and, as Deputy
Headteacher Rob O’Hara (Teal’s carer) says: “As a friend when students just need that extra
TLC.”
To find out more about buddy dogs, please visit http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/services/buddydogs or call 0118 9835555.
Included here is a photograph of Teal with her buddy dog harness on. Teal is sat patiently,
looking away from the camera.
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Corporate partnerships
++A holiday that helps Guide Dogs
cottages4you
Supporting Guide Dogs is seldom hard work but sometimes it can be very relaxing - for instance
when staying in a holiday cottage booked through a company that has a partnership with Guide
Dogs!
cottages4you is one of many organisations that have teamed up with Guide Dogs to raise funds
that help us transform the lives of people who are blind or partially sighted. From Petplan
insurance to Andrex and from Jollyes Petfood Superstores to Donate Mobile, businesses of all
shapes and sizes support Guide Dogs in many different ways. We have been working with
cottages4you for several years now and they make a donation of ten per cent of the cost of the
holiday cottage for each cottage booked through their own Guide Dogs dedicated website.
Our corporate partnerships are invaluable to us, not just because they make a substantial
contribution to our income but also because they enable us to reach a wider audience. We want
to raise awareness of our life-changing work with as many people as possible, and hope to gain
more supporters and volunteers as a result. Often these partnerships give us access to other
companies that share the same or similar values or concerns as we do, which give us access to
additional funds and opportunities to recruit even more volunteers and supporters.
With winter’s grip very much still upon us, readers’ thoughts may be turning to plans for their
holidays. If you are a guide dog owner or have a pet dog, a key attraction of many of
cottages4you’s holiday homes is that they welcome canine visitors too. There are thousands of
properties on their website, large and small, in the UK and overseas, and short breaks too. To
visit the site, go to http://www.cottages-4-you.co.uk/guidedogs, or call 0845 2681762.
Included within this article are two pictures of different cottages.
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Day in the life of...
++Terry Cane, volunteer driver
Terry Cane from Evesham, has been a volunteer driver for Guide Dogs for seven years. He tells
Forward how he enjoys hitting the road and why he’s known as “the puppy bingo man”.
“I became a volunteer driver when my daughter had a brood bitch called Joy - a “guide dog
mum” - who is now retired. I was put in touch with a supervisor, we were visited and vetted and
it went from there.”
Terry has been around cars and vans most of his life during a long career in motor
manufacturing, firstly in Essex then in the Midlands. His enjoyment of driving helps during the
lengthy road trips which can take him as far as Penrith in Cumbria.
“But I also enjoy being with the puppies, and the humans too!” said the 75-year-old.
”For the Penrith run, I get up at about 7am and head to the breeding centre to load the puppies
onto the van. Then I drive off, stopping once on the way, and we usually get to Penrith by about
11.30. When I get there, I meet the driver from Forfar Training School and we tend to just swap
vans to avoid disturbing the puppies, so he drives on and I drive his van back.”
The welcome party for Terry’s furry deliveries is usually a mix of puppy walkers and local Guide
Dogs staff. He said: “The puppy walkers are often first-timers or quite inexperienced so they’re
encouraged to get started there and then. I’m known as the puppy bingo man because the
puppies are all chipped with a number which relates to the number on their documents, so when I
turn up I say “right, eyes down…”
“I often think about what the puppies I drive around will go on to do. Because I’ve also seen my
daughter’s brood bitch have about 30 puppies over the years, you do think to yourself will they
become a guide dog? Or breed stock? Or have another career altogether? It’s great to think that
so many do go on to become guide dogs and help change people’s lives.
“When I retired we did quite a bit of travelling, so having a dog permanently didn’t really come
up, but I would like to maybe one day have a retired guide dog or one that didn’t quite make it.”
Included within this article is a picture of Terry shaking hands with a member of Guide Dogs’
staff, who has a guide dog in a working harness with him.
The National Breeding Centre has a team of 14 volunteer drivers who transport puppies across
the country, taking great care of their precious cargo. Between July 2012 and June 2013 they
transported an average of 88 puppies every month on 213 trips covering an amazing 53,000
miles.
Pictured here is one of the volunteers standing by her car, with a guide dog puppy in her arms.
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Gifts in Wills
++A gift that’s full of life
Did you know that two out of three guide dogs are made possible thanks to gifts in Wills?
To raise awareness of just how crucial these gifts are to Guide Dogs, we’ve been working with the
Daily Telegraph, to tell readers how a gift in their Will could transform the life of a person with
sight loss.
Along with lots of other coverage, they’re regularly publishing a legacy advert that features 25year-old Lynette Proctor from Wallasey, and her guide dog Pippa. Pippa has given Lynette the
chance to lead a full and active life, and the advertisement demonstrates this by featuring photos
of the pair throughout the day, from getting out of bed at 7.00am to turning in at around
11.00pm.
As with any photographs, however, they don’t tell the whole story and we thought Forward
readers might like a little inside information…
The first photo is of a cheeky Pippa looking at Lynette’s feet poking out from under her duvet;
according to the photo, it’s 7am. But we know, from speaking to Lynette, that Pippa will already
have been awake for at least half an hour by that time, asking for her breakfast which, Lynette
says, “she generally gets before I have mine!”
The photo taken at 9.00am is of Pippa with Lynette at her local swimming pool. What the casual
observer wouldn’t know is that staff at the pool are so impressed with Pippa they allow her to
sleep in their office while Lynette has her swim.
Come 4.15, Pippa is photographed relaxing at home, playing with a toy. “She tries to play with
my other dog, Sully, who tolerates her,” laughs Lynette, “and chases my four cats around too.
She never stops!”
The picture for 8.44pm is of Lynette having a drink with friends. Her friends from university are
scattered across the country but Pippa helps her keep in touch: “Pippa came to Birmingham with
me recently for a big uni reunion. She fits in great and has been made an honorary member of
our group.”
We hope the photos in our advertisement give people a little insight into just how invaluable our
precious guide dogs are. The reality, of course, is that there’s even more going on behind the
images - for instance, as well as a work placement in her local GP practice, Lynette regularly
travels to a hospital in Liverpool to give visual awareness training to the staff. She really does
lead a full life thanks to Pippa and the support of people like you.
When Lynette agreed to take part in this project, she was only too happy to help. “Before Pippa, I
was treating each day as if it were a chore that took so much effort to accomplish. I had no
dreams or goals past going to bed each night. I really can’t emphasise enough how much she’s
changed my life.” If you’d like to find out more about leaving a gift in your Will, please contact
the Gifts in Wills Team on 0845 6031477 or giftsinwills@guidedogs.org.uk
Pictured here is Lynette sitting on the sofa with a drink in her hand, Pippa is stood in front of her
and Lynette is scratching Pippa’s ear playfully.
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Guide Dogs Annual Awards
++Guide Dogs Annual Awards 2013
The London Hilton on Park Lane was the elegant setting for the Guide Dogs Annual Awards in
partnership with Specsavers. During an evening of celebration, glamour and fun, guests heard
unforgettable stories about our volunteers, guide dog owners and, of course, our dogs. And the
winners are…
++Guide Dog of the Year Award Emma Free and Jazz
sponsored by Specsavers
The overall Guide Dog of the Year Award went to Emma Free and Jazz, whose heroic actions
potentially saved not one but three lives. Jazz was waiting with Emma and her two young sons at
a crossing. Suddenly Jazz pulled Emma back and the boys quickly followed. Seconds later, a huge
lorry mounted the kerb exactly where they’d been standing. Thanks to Jazz’s lightning reaction,
no one was hurt.
Included here is a picture of Emma with guide dog Jazz. Emma is kneeling down, stroking Jazz.
++The overall Guide Dog of the Year Award winner is chosen from three different categories of
award: Guide Dog of the Year - Beyond the Call of Duty, won by Emma and Jazz, Guide Dog of
the Year - Outstanding Work, won by Andrea Hope and Zeta, and Guide Dog of the Year - Life
Changing, won by Mahomed Khatri and Vargo.
Before Vargo, Mahomed depended on his family. Now he’s studying for a Master’s degree,
represents England in blind cricket and has climbed Mount Kilimanjaro for charity.
Pictured here is Mahomed with Vargo, Mahomed is kneeling down with his arm around Vargo.
Despite suffering from several allergies, Zeta still thrives on her work and intuitively seems to
know what Andrea wants.
Included here is a picture of Zeta and Andrea touching noses.
Young Person’s Achievement Award - Torie Tennant
Blind from birth and, at 22, Northern Ireland’s youngest guide dog owner, Torie campaigns for
improvements to transport and accessibility and is passionate that young people like her should
enjoy equal opportunities. She’s a deserving winner of this award for people aged between 14
and 25, who are blind or partially sighted, whose volunteering contribution is making a real
difference.
Pictured here is Torie with her guide dog, who is licking Torie’s cheek.
++Breaking Down Barriers Award - Anna Beresford
This new award celebrates work being done to break down the barriers that prevent people who
are blind or partially sighted from getting out and about on their own terms. It was won by Anna,
who is a powerful advocate for Guide Dogs. Having sight and hearing loss herself, she’s
passionate about fighting for the rights of people who are visually impaired and is regularly
involved in lobbying and campaigning.
Included here is a picture of Anna in front of her computer.
++Inspirational Guide Dog Owner Award - Konrad Galen-Bisping
This award goes to a guide dog owner who has achieved something exceptional or overcome a
significant challenge. Konrad lost his sight after being attacked, suffering from memory problems
and post-traumatic stress. He never went anywhere alone. Yet within a week of being paired with
guide dog Radley, he was able to walk down a busy shopping street on his own. He now has an
independence no one thought possible.
Pictured here is guide dog Radley with Konrad and his family.
++Lifetime Achievement Award - Lamont Forbes MBE
An exceptional ambassador for Guide Dogs in Scotland, Lamont began supporting the
organisation in 1975. Since then Lamont’s roles have included volunteer liaison officer, Guide
Dogs speaker and branch chairman. Awarded the MBE in 1999 for services to Guide Dogs,
Lamont’s achievements are extraordinary and local staff say they simply couldn’t do without him.
Included here is a picture of Lamont smiling at the camera, he is wearing a Guide Dogs shirt.
++Volunteer of the Year Award - Danny Rooney
Danny has devoted huge amounts of time, energy and enthusiasm to promoting Guide Dogs in
the local community and is always ready to support staff and fellow volunteers. Danny has been
the “driving” force behind some very popular golf events in Scotland, which have raised enough
money to name six puppies.
Pictured here is Danny at a primary school assembly with a guide dog.
++The winner of the overall Volunteer of the Year Award is chosen from three Volunteer of the
Year categories. Danny won the category for Fundraiser of the Year. The other two winners were
Sandra Hoffman, Volunteer of the Year - Outstanding Dedication, sponsored by Ricoh UK Limited,
and Rachel Patterson, Volunteer of the Year - Young People’s Award.
Partner of the Year Award - Microsoft and Gamelab
This award recognises the importance of partnerships to Guide Dogs and in improving the lives of
people who are blind or partially sighted. Gamelab have worked with Guide Dogs on software
which encourages children with sight loss to practice exercises to improve their skills in getting
around, and Microsoft UK have donated about 3,000 hours of expertise, helping Guide Dogs
explore technology which can greatly enhance the lives of people with sight loss - you can read
more about this ground-breaking work in the “Guide Dogs and technology” section.
++Gifts for the future
As well as having an extremely memorable and moving evening, guests at the awards raised
money for Guide Dogs by taking part in our fundraising activities and bidding for items that
money can’t buy in our auction. Their generosity has raised well over £100,000 so far and is set
to raise more. The money raised will enable us to support many more blind and partially sighted
people in years to come. We are especially grateful to our sponsors, Specsavers, for their
incredible support, and to all the organisations and individuals who attended the awards to make
them such a great success.
To read more about the awards, please visit http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/awards
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The generation game
++The generation game
Every guide dog was once a tiny puppy, born to one of our brood bitches and stud dogs - our
amazing guide dog “mums and dads”. The best of the best, these dogs are taken care of by some
very special volunteers.
You might not recognise this yellow Labrador on the street, but last year Kane starred in ITV’s Me
and My Guide Dog. Kane is a stud dog and was chosen because he had been mated with a bitch
who was going to be filmed whelping at the National Breeding Centre.
Kane is now nine years old and enjoying his retirement with his breed stock holder Pam Faulkner,
after siring an impressive 171 puppies. The youngest of those are still in training but he already
has 88 qualified guide dogs, 11 brood bitches and five stud dogs to his name. “He has such a
beautiful nature,” says Pam, “and has produced puppies just like him.”
Kane’s legacy has spread far beyond the UK too, with both his progeny and semen being given to
guide dog organisations as far apart as Canada, Israel, the USA and Australia.
Included here is a picture of Kane, grandson Pudsey and son Taylor.
If you are interested in becoming a breed stock holder, please visit
http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/supportus/volunteering to find out more about the criteria you
would need to fulfil, or call our National Breeding Centre on 0845 3727432.
As a guide dog owner himself, John Garrett knows from personal experience the vital role that
both the brood stock and volunteers play in changing lives. On his first tour of the National
Breeding Centre when starting as a Volunteer Development Coordinator, he discovered that
Willow, the mother of his current guide dog Eddie, had died suddenly.
This was a pivotal moment for him, and the start of a quest to find out more about Willow’s
puppies and her volunteer carers, Lesley and Steve Cox.
16 puppies from Willow’s four litters have become guide dogs, transforming the lives of people of
all ages and walks of life. “What really struck me,” explains John, “is they are all Willow’s living
legacy.”
An accomplished musician, John was inspired to write a song “as a response to my gain from the
volunteers’ loss”, which he sent to Lesley and Steve as a way of thanking them for their
invaluable contribution.
Included within this article is a picture of John outside the National Breeding Centre with his guide
dog Eddie.
An apology: in our autumn feature on Goldie, the “Blue Peter” brood bitch, we wrongly captioned
a photo of Sarah Greene “Janet Ellis”.
++Name a Puppy
++Pupils, puppies and pennies
Pupils at Colston’s School in Bristol have a novel approach to fundraising for Guide Dogs.
Each year, over 600 pupils in four house groups take part in a “Mile of Pennies” challenge - laying
their collected copper coins along the school driveway to see which team’s line is longest.
The school has been donating the proceeds of this challenge to Guide Dogs since 2010. However,
following the sudden death of a well-loved teacher, Ray Mardle, in 2011, pupils decided to
fundraise in a variety of ways to name a puppy in his memory.
Their total stands at more than £3,000 and puppy Mardle has already visited the school. He is in
good hands with volunteer puppy walkers Derek and Norma Stent, who’ve been looking after
guide dog puppies for an incredible 40 years.
Included within this article are two pictures. The first is of some of the students at Colston’s
School, with Derek and Norma, holding a banner with the Guide Dogs logo on it, which reads
“THANK YOU”. The second photo is of the students with guide dog puppy Mardle.
++Shakespeare’s puppies
Juliet, Troilus, Othello… just some of the literary names that supporters of our Shakespeare’s
Puppies Appeal hope to name their puppies. The brainchild of puppy walker Jackie Horton, the
challenge was issued to the people of Stratford upon Avon to raise money to name puppies after
Shakespearean characters. With local businesses, schools and staff of the Royal Shakespeare
Company taking part, the appeal has certainly captured the imagination of the local community.
Included here is a picture of some of the Guide Dogs volunteers outside the Royal Shakespeare
Company.
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Climb every mountain
++Three years ago, John Churcher joined Solihull Mountaineering Club. Fast forward to 2014 and
John’s now the only guide dog owner in the GB Para-climbing Team.
39-year-old John, from Erdington, Birmingham, started losing his sight at 14 and became a guide
dog owner in 2008. Thanks to guide dog Annie, John can travel independently to the daily
training sessions that give him the fitness and skills to qualify for the GB team.
When climbing, John relies on a spotter describing where the holds are. His friend Margaret, who
introduced him to climbing, says: “Other experienced climbers just stop to watch him, amazed
and inspired by what he is doing.”
Included within this article is a picture of John with Annie, standing in front of a rock climbing
wall.
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What’s on
++Dogs Unite for Guide Dogs
In recent years, hundreds of our supporters and their canine companions have taken to the
streets, the park - almost anywhere, in fact - to Go Walkies for Guide Dogs.
We’re giving Go Walkies a makeover and it will now be known as “Dogs Unite!” Don’t worry - it
will still be the only sponsored dog walk where the dogs are sponsored to take part and we hope
the new name and new look will encourage even more people to get involved.
“Dogs Unite!” aims to inspire you and your four legged friends to be heroes for the day and to
unite dogs of all shapes and sizes in helping our hero guide dogs fulfil their destiny - to enable
people who are blind or partially sighted to get out and about on their own terms and live the
lives they choose.
There’s already exciting news for “Dogs Unite!” in 2014.
On 24 May we’re hosting a “Dogs Unite!” event in one of the UK’s most iconic venues, the
Olympic Park. It will be the only event of its kind to have taken place at the Olympic Park and
there will be a whole host of surprises in store on this ground-breaking occasion.
It will be a wonderful day out for the whole family (including your furry friends) to enjoy. You can
follow all the news, read updates and find out how to book tickets at
http://www.facebook.com/dogsunite
++Crufts, Birmingham NEC: 6 - 9 March
Meet our guide dogs and find out more about the difference they make to the lives of people who
are blind or partially sighted. http://www.crufts.org.uk
++BBC Gardener’s World Birmingham NEC: 11 - 15 June
Meet our dogs, take a walk in our Sensory Tunnel and take a blindfold challenge to test your
senses. http://www.bbcgardenersworldlive.com
++Brighton Marathon: 6 April
Join us in the vibrant city of Brighton for the UK’s second largest marathon.
++“Running Blind” Catton Park, Derbyshire: August Bank Holiday weekend
A brand new 12-hour off-road relay event where Guide Dogs is the main affiliated charity.
++The Coniston Challenge Lake District: 13 September
A bespoke Guide Dogs multi-discipline event, where teams hike up the Old Man of Coniston,
mountain bike through Grizedale Forest and kayak across Coniston Water.
Looking for a challenge? Take part in a Guide Dogs event!
Visit http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/events or call 0845 6006787 for more information.
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Our supporters
++Thanks to our supporters
It’s always fantastic to read about the inventive, ingenious and - let’s face it, sometimes insane ways our supporters raise money for Guide Dogs. But I’m especially touched to read about all the
celebrations you’ve used as opportunities to support us. It’s wonderful that you share your
birthdays and anniversaries with us - and even your weddings. It’s even more wonderful when
the wedding is between a guide dog owner and a volunteer, like Mavis and John from Lincoln.
Thank you all for spreading the joy of your special days beyond your friends and family to the
thousands of blind and partially sighted people we reach out to every day - it means so much.
Jayne George
Director of Fundraising and Marketing
++Medals and mountains Having won gold at the 2012 Paralympics, James Roe, who has a visual
impairment, is now energetically supporting Guide Dogs. He and his partner, Cat Webber, climbed
Mount Kenya as part of our Shakespeare’s Puppies Appeal (read “The generation game” section).
They hope to raise enough to name a puppy Titus.
Included here is a picture of James Roe holding a guide dog puppy.
++Well done to volunteers and staff from Peterborough Mobility Team, who raised more than
£1,000, and members of fundraising groups across Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire, who
raised a further £7,000 during Guide Dogs Week. Events included a guide dog obedience display,
and West Norfolk Borough Mayor Liz Watson was guided around King’s Lynn blindfolded.
Pictured here are some of the staff from the Peterborough Mobility Team with some guide dogs.
++The 2013 Flag Day held by Plymouth fundraising group raised a record £2,075. Guide dog
owners and puppy walkers were helped by staff at Caffe Gallerie, who joined in enthusiastically in fancy dress!
Included here is a picture of a member of staff from Caffe Gallerie in fancy dress, with a guide
dog sitting patiently at her feet.
++John Dodston asked friends and family for donations rather than presents when celebrating his
retirement and 65th birthday. He handed over a cheque for £170 to Community Engagement
Officer Sue Rowen at a puppy walking class in Colchester.
Included here is a picture of John handing over the cheque to Sue Rowen at a puppy walking
class.
++Volunteers Helen Graham, Deborah Ingram and Pam Chalkley organised a superb Dine in the
Dark Halloween themed evening for 100 guests at the Hilton Hotel Maidstone on behalf of the
Maidstone Mobility Team. It was a huge success, raising just over £4,000 from ticket sales, an
auction and tombola.
++The new Weston-Super-Mare fundraising group joined forces with Charity SciFi to raise £724.
The charity is hoping to name a puppy “Motti”, in memory of Richard Le Parmentier - Admiral
Motti in “Star Wars”. The mixture of guide dogs and sci-fi characters was a great attraction for
holiday makers but guide dog owners all agreed that K9 would never replace their amazing guide
dogs!
Included here is a picture of the fundraisers in “Star Wars” outfits.
++Congratulations to guide dog owner John Algar and his grandson, Ben Lenton, who took on a
sponsored skydive to “Stand Out for Guide Dogs”. In 30 seconds, they travelled two miles down
and raised over £900.
Pictured here are John and Ben after they had completed their skydive.
++Thank you to everyone who made the first Peterborough Fun Day so special - and helped raise
£9,000. Pictured is a young visually impaired girl meeting her first guide dog.
++Guide dog owner Theresa Osborne-Bell ran the Great South Run, guided by friend David Bell
dressed in a puppy costume. Having not done anything like this before, she described it as a
“great but exhausting experience.” So far Theresa has raised over £350.
Included here is a picture of Theresa in her running t-shirt and David, who is dressed as a puppy.
++A big thank you to the team from Lloyds Bank in Leeds, who did a sterling “ground force” day
for Leeds Mobility Team, clearing weeds and overgrown trees.
Included here is a picture of the Lloyds Bank team with a guide dog.
++Kettering, Corby and District fundraising branches were delighted to be part of the World
Conker Championships at Southwick, near Oundle. The demonstration team from Leamington
also attended, and “King Conker”, aka David Jakins, did a blindfold walk. Despite dreadful
weather, they raised £242 from a tombola, donations and trading items.
Pictured here is David during his blindfold walk.
++A collection at the Darlington Flag Day raised £828. Thank you to everyone who took part,
including members of the Coldstream Guards.
Pictured here are two of the people involved in the collection at Darlington Flag Day, with guide
dogs.
++It only took one day for pupils at Bishop Vesey’s Grammar School, Sutton Coldfield, to raise
an incredible £1,500 to name a puppy. They raised the money through a non-uniform day, cake
sale and soak-the-teacher event.
Included here is a picture of some of the pupils from Bishop Vesey’s Grammar School holding an
enlarged cheque.
++So far staff and customers at Sainsbury’s Colchester store have raised over £1,300 with
fundraising activities including a blue-and-yellow (Guide Dogs colours!) dress down day, and
many more planned for the future.
Pictured here are some of the staff dressed in their blue-and-yellow clothes.
++Pembrokeshire vets Johan and Jeanne-Marie Eksteen ran the Cardiff Half Marathon in memory
of one of their favourite patients, guide dog Wilma, and raised £1,250. The couple supported
Guide Dogs because they were so impressed by the way staff handled Wilma’s illness.
Included here is a picture of Johan and Jeanne-Marie after they had run the Cardiff Half
Marathon.
++Green fingered gardener Jimmy Black sells vegetables from his allotment, raising £100 each
summer. He’s helped by his sister-in-law, Sue, and has fenced off an area for his guide dog,
Crispin, so he can safely keep an eye on proceedings.
Pictured here are Jimmy, Sue and Crispin at the allotment.
++The Ilford Brownies enjoyed their visits to Redbridge Guide Dog Training School so much that
they donated £100. And when Mr and Mrs Joss and their family spent a day at the school as part
of their 40th wedding anniversary celebrations, they very generously gave £1,050 by way of
thanks. The highlight of their day was a blindfolded walk with one of the young guide dogs.
++When guide dog owner Mavis James married volunteer John Fisher, from Lincoln fundraising
group, they asked for donations to Guide Dogs rather than gifts and were delighted to receive
£810. The church was full to bursting with well-wishers and the couple’s happiness was clear to
see.
Included here is a picture of Mavis and John on their wedding day with guide dogs and other
guests.
++Watford fundraising group held a fundraising night at the Oxhey Hall Social Club and raised
£600. Music was provided by the Good Old Boys, whose members come from notable British rock
bands including Deep Purple and the Strawbs. Guide dog owner Steve Hale and his dog Yoshi
drew the raffle.
Pictured here are Steve Hale and Yoshi during the raffle.
++Guide dog owner Alan Fletcher has already raised an amazing £5,000 as part of “4pups4Joy”,
his fundraising website set up in memory of his guide dog Joy, who died suddenly last summer.
He hopes to raise £20,000, enough to name four guide dog puppies.
++Congratulations to 14-year-old Bethan Squires, from Chippenham, who’s already volunteered
for Guide Dogs for two years. So impressed was her school by her contribution to the school and
community, they recommended her for a Rotary Club Community Award, which she received at
an awards ceremony in October.
Included here is a picture of Bethan receiving her award.
++Karen Norton became a guide dog owner at the start of her final year as a teacher at Stalham
Junior School before retiring last summer. She was delighted when the pupils raised over £2,300
through a sponsored walk and other events.
Pictured here are Karen with her guide dog and some of the pupils before they set off on their
sponsored walk.
++Coventry fundraising group members Jackie, Doreen and Karina, and guide dog Tanya are
pictured here with Star Wars Storm Trooper (Paul Heritage), who beamed in to help their
collection efforts, asking members of the public to have their photos taken with him for a
donation to Guide Dogs. The group raised an impressive £823.
++Many thanks to Kathy, Robin and Jay Wroe-Brown, who along with guide dog puppy Bracken,
completed a sponsored walk to the summit of Ben Nevis and raised £525.85.
++A fabulous time was had by all at the FitSteps 4 Guide Dogs event held at four locations Reading, West Lothian, Newcastle and Leamington. They were led by Strictly Come Dancing’s Ian
Waite and FitSteps’ Head of Training and Development Ian Parker. Nearly £4,000 was raised,
which will go towards naming a guide dog puppy.
Included here is a picture of the FitSteps 4 Guide Dogs team with Ian Waite and Ian Parker.
[Back to contents]
In memory
++Elizabeth Hubbick
We are extremely sad to report the sudden death of Elizabeth Hubbick in September. Elizabeth
worked tirelessly for Guide Dogs for more than 30 years and was our Deputy Chair from 2009
until 2011. She was also a very energetic and committed fundraiser with the Exeter branch.
Elizabeth was greatly respected by everyone who worked with her and the news of her death
came as a great shock to the whole Guide Dogs community. She will be very sorely missed by
everyone who had the pleasure to work alongside her and our deepest sympathy goes to her
husband, David, and her family.
Within this article is a head and shoulders picture of Elizabeth Hubbick. She is facing the camera
and smiling.
++Dorothy Lamb
Tributes have been paid to Dorothy Lamb, who died in July at the age of 83. A guide dog owner
herself, she and her husband, Ray, travelled tirelessly around Cornwall, raising money for a cause
that meant so much to her. Her sense of humour and infectious personality endeared her to all
she met.
++Stella Martin
It is with great sadness that we report the death of Stella Martin of Eastbourne, who died
peacefully in August after a short illness. She had been blind since her late teens and enjoyed a
full and active life, aided and abetted by her greatly loved guide dogs. She is greatly missed by
her many friends.
[Back to contents]
Canine obituaries
++We’ll never forget
If you would like to pay tribute to a guide dog you have known, please send your tribute (up to a
maximum of 25 words) to forward@guidedogs.org.uk or to Forward at Hillfields, Burghfield
Common, Reading, RG7 3YG.
Aden 22.5.00 - 5.11.13
Adopted by the Clark family 12 years ago, he has been a lovely member of the family. Thank you
for everything he brought to us.
Allie 12.8.98 - 3.6.13
An amazing companion, always there for me, even though she had retired. Special friend to
Supreya, Audrey and Theresa. I will miss you old girl.
Amba 7.8.97 - 14.6.13
“Our little poppet”, wonderful, gentle and loving. Puppy walked by Mrs W Bell, Redcar, adopted at
18 months by the Lightburn family, Durham. Sadly missed.
Anton 11.9.99 - 12.10.13
Did not become a guide dog but lived near the sea and enjoyed a free and happy life with us for
nearly 14 years.
Bebe 21.3.98 - 17.8.13
Devoted guide to Tanya until she retired to the country and made a friend of everyone she met.
Sleep well old timer, Heather, Allan & Tess.
Cassie 22.6.00 - 6.10.13
Always in our hearts, never forgotten. Loved and missed by all who knew her. Sleep tight my
little girl. God bless. Love Mum, Dad and Reet.
Clover 9.5.00 - 16.8.13
Walked and retired to Gill and Ted Parkinson. Super dog, good friend and loved by all. Sleep well
bonny lass.
Croft 20.10.01 - 8.7.13
Puppy walked by Alicyn Lochhead. He was my first puppy and such a wonderful boy. He set me
on the road to walking more. Sadly missed.
Dalton 15.4.96 - 18.4.13
Guide dog to Sheila Rushton. My little star whose presence blessed many. Fantastic retirement
with Jill and Bob Mills. Thank you my big faithful boy.
Digby 5.6.99 - 7.2.13
Guide to and retired with Bob Jones. Loving, loyal, funny, gentle giant, who could swipe food off
the table as he passed. Sadly missed by everyone.
Dixie 5.6.99 - 17.4.13
Mother to 38 puppies and foster mum to three more. We miss our lovely girl every day. Tony and
Barbara
Dixy 27.5.00 - 17.6.13
Didn’t qualify but came home to be matriarch, mentor and champion ear-washer to countless
puppies. Missing you so much angel. See you at the rainbow bridge.
Dora (known as Meg) 31.3.00 - 30.9.13
A very special brood bitch - gentle, with excellent manners. Her last litter was promoted by
McFly.
Dusky 27.9.99 - 5.7.13
Faithful first guide to Rayana Adams and Doug, Newport. Three happy years’ retirement with
puppy walkers Sylvia and Gerald Stiff. Much loved and sadly missed. Love you Dusky.
Eden 2.4.00 - 25.07.13
Faithful guide to Tony Randall for eight years. Retired to Ray and Angela for four wonderful years.
Very handsome boy much missed by us all.
Emma 28.5.00 - 22.05.13
Walked by and retired to Julia and Andy Howard. Goodbye our beautiful Goldie. Thank you for so
many happy days and long walks together. XXX
Esme (Izzy) 20.12.98 - 29.08.13
A wonderful friend and companion who enjoyed her happy retirement in the New Forest with Val
and Dennis Challis. Loved and sadly missed.
Faldo 31.10.00 - 2.9.13
Withdrawn from guide dog training but the most amazing companion. Simply the greatest dog
the world has ever known. My daughter Niki and I are heartbroken.
Fliss 31.10.00 - 23.5.13
Rehomed to us at 19 months. You brought the sunshine into our lives. Loved always, forever
missed, our sun has set. Always our Puppa Jack.
Gable 16.5.98 - 29.6.13
Beloved friend, guide and companion to Jenny Noctor. Now in heaven. Sadly missed, still
grieving.
Glade 2.6.04 - 6.9.13
Wonderful mum and friend to us all. You will always be missed by the Boden family. Run free with
Louis.
Granger 14.2.99 - 16.10.13
Puppy walked by Teresa Phillips and medically retired at seven months old. Remained with us
until the end, Teresa, John and family. XXX
Hamlet 4.8.99 - 17.9.13
Retired back to puppy walker Carol Oliver and family. Hamlet gave so much joy; he was loved
beyond measure and will live in our hearts forever.
Harmony 8.99 - 9.13
Exceptional guide to Barbara Gilhooly, my precious, loyal companion. The best little dog I ever
had. RIP Harmony, we all miss you, including Bear and Peggy.
Henna 27.2.01 - 19.7.13
Henna was such an amazing, special and beautiful dog who will be hugely missed. In my heart
forever.
Hobie 25.3.02 - 30.10.13
Rehomed after puppy walking due to cataracts. Thank you my Best Boy for all that we’ve shared.
My dear friend, remembered always with love.
Ishka 15.6.99 - 13.9.13
Loved by all. Puppy walked by Jean Endersby, adopted by Margaret Offord. Life will never be the
same without you, forever in my thoughts.
Ivan 29.11.99 - 16.8.13
Guide to David Tinkler, Kettering, for over nine years. Retired with Anna and Brian Roberts. An
exemplary guide dog, loved and admired by all.
Jasper 31.3.01 - 3.6.13
In loving memory of Jasper. The gentlest teddy bear imaginable, who gave as much love as
received. The brightest star will shine for you Jas!
Jim 5.10.03 - 13.9.13
Beautiful border collie. Puppy walked and adopted by Cynthia Russell. Loved by all who met him.
Now free from pain. Bless you, lovely lad.
Jubbie Joe 5.5.05. - 7.9.13
Treasured guide dog to the late Des Maloney. Rehomed to and adored by Clive and Denise
Proctor. A very special boy - too young to die.
Kandy 22.3.97 - 1.6.13
Beautiful first guide to Sheila Scott, retired to Deirdre and Gerry McVean. Loved by everyone; an
outstanding fundraiser for Guide Dogs. Fond memories.
Kathy 4.12.99 - 6.8.13
Retired to puppy walkers Jean and Frank Smith. Her tail wagged to the end. We will miss you
forever. Lick from Carlo, your friend to the end.
Keaton 10.2.05 - 10.5.13
Guide dog to Heather. My Yiddishe guide dog. You were my eyes, my family and my only true
friend.
Kimber 15.6.01 - 9.7.13
Very loved guide to Isobel Brown. Sadly missed by all family, Betsy and friends. Goodnight
handsome boy. Rest in peace with Aiden. See you in heaven.
Kirby 7.1.01 - 17.7.13
I have lost a great friend, rest easy lad and run free, your work here is done. A loyal guide to
Nigel Ashby.
Lester 8.11.03 - 28.2.12
Puppy walked and returned to us, loved sitting on the sofa with his family and blanket and living
by the beach. Greatly missed. RIP Beautiful.
Mandy 8.1.01 - 16.10.13
Caring, conscientious guide to Isobel Yule. Lovingly puppy walked by Jean Parham. Farewell my
beautiful, gentle, happy girl. Forever in my heart. Sadly missed.
Natalie 20.8.99 - 13.8.12
Third guide to Frances Guyver. Sure as a shadow by my side, my ever watchful careful guide.
Remembering you always with much love, Mum. X
Nikki 18.3.99 - 25.07.13
Eddie’s blonde Nikki Noo, trained by Shelley at Redbridge. A wonderful guide dog and loving
family friend, who brought new life to Eddie.
Oban 17.9.97 - 2.3.13
Guide to Linda Jauer, retired to Helen and Douglas Denholm. He gave his all and wagged his tail
until the end. Totally adored and sorely missed.
Oban 17.9.98 - 28.10.13
Guide to our son Peter, retired to us seven years ago. An amazing dog. So many happy
memories, it was a privilege to know him
Owen 30.11.00 - 22.07.13
Second guide to Ros Watkins. Owie - noisy, happy, gentle, funny and gentleman thief. You have
left a huge space in our home and our hearts.
Paddy 4.98 - 10.13
Guide dog to June Wood, retired to Janet Tyson, puppy walked by Sarah Gough. Go free Paddy
boy and God bless.
Pebbles 10.6.98 - 17.6.13
Puppy walker Betty Gilbert. Withdrawn and rehomed with Val and Brian Godbold. Gone from our
lives but not from our hearts. Run free PD (Pebble Dash).
Pixie 20.2.00 - 23.8.13
Called Smiler by all who knew her. Produced lovely puppies and happily retired to Grace Brock.
My best friend, she leaves a big hole in my life.
Ruby 18.4.03 - 21.8.13
Rehomed in training to her puppy walkers. Loved and missed so much by Frances and Gordon
Johnston and her wee pal Poppy. Sleep tight Ruby.
Russ 6.8.98 - 9.7.13
Adopted on early retirement. A faithful and loving friend for nearly nine years. Ann’s “pickle” and
Gordon’s “best pal”, he will never be forgotten. XXX
Ryan 20.2.00 - 31.7.13
My beautiful boy. Loved by everyone and adored by me as I was by him. Always in my heart, my
first guide. Love you forever.
Scarlett 14.3.04 - 1.7.13
First guide. She was a happy, loving, playful, friendly girl. Wagged her tail to the end. She will
always be in our hearts. Judith and Geoff
Sharon 17.7.99 - 27.10.13
Now run free our beautiful girl in the wind and rain, like you did when you were young, through
woods and fields again.
Stanley 27.9.01 - 14.10.13
Puppy walked by Muriel and Peter Emmerson, guide to Harry Edwards, retired early to Phil
Williams. One in a million. RIP big beautiful boy.
Tamara 26.2.98 - 26.7.13
Peacefully put to sleep. Never made a guide dog but what a wonderful pet and friend to the
Littlewood family. Loved by everyone. Irreplaceable.
Vanda 7.4.99 - 20.8.13
Fourth guide to Les Pettett. Exceptional worker, enjoyed her retirement. Much loved by all who
knew her. All our love, Mum, Dad and Tilly.
Venice 8.5.01 - 21.3.13
Guide to Diana for eight wonderful years, then retired to live with the family. Sadly missed. A
wonderful girl who touched the hearts of all she met.
Watson 28.7.97 - 29.05.13
Guide to John Dear, retired to puppy walkers the Moss family. Much loved, so sadly missed - our
handsome “gentleman” with enthusiasm and zest for life.
Yulie 30.1.02 - 25.6.13
Always remembering a much-loved girl. Wonderful mother to 37 healthy puppies. Kind, patient,
completely in tune - my kindred spirit. Forever missed, forever loved, Mary.
Guide Dogs is working with the Blue Cross to provide a bereavement support service for current
and retired guide dog owners and volunteers who are grieving the loss of their dog or puppy
through retirement, rehoming, illness, separation, transition or death. A phone line is open daily
from 8.30am - 8.30pm and there is an e-mail service for people who prefer to write about how
they are feeling.
Guide dog owners and volunteers can call the bereavement service on 0800 0966606 or e-mail
pbssmail@bluecross.org.uk
Included here are photographs taken in various locations and in different poses of: Allie, Amba,
Anton, Bebe, Dalton, Digby, Dixy, Dora, Eden, Emma, Esme, Faldo, Fliss, Glade, Granger,
Hamlet, Harmony, Henna, Hobie, Ishka, Jim, Jubbie Joe, Kathy, Kirby, Lester, Mandy, Natalie,
Oban, Oban, Owen, Pebbles, Pixie, Ruby, Russ, Scarlett, Stanley, Tamara, Vanda, Venice and
Watson.
[Back to contents]
Letters and caption competition
++Letters
I’ve had my guide dog Hattie since 2012 and we’re off to Buckinghamshire to start university so
we’ve been visiting a few of Hattie’s favourite places. I shared some photos of Hattie on Facebook
for family and friends but also her puppy walker family like to know what she’s up to so I thought
I’d send some to Forward.
Becky Clarke
Included here is a photograph of Hattie sitting on the grass.
I wanted to share something which made my husband and me very proud of my guide dog,
Kashmir. Last year we attended the charity opening night for Zizzi’s restaurant in Reading. A
young man introduced himself and said he’d met Kashmir and me on the Guide Dogs stall in
nearby Wokingham. He wanted us to know that, from that meeting, he and his partner had
decided to sponsor a puppy and also that he now works for Guide Dogs. So Kashmir not only
changed my life but also that of a lovely young man!
Jenny Pape
We thought you’d like this picture of guide dog owner Tim Reddish OBE and his dog Violet
meeting Princess Anne. Tim is Chairman of the British Paralympic Association and one of the first
people to have a retinal implant. The implant is in its early stages and, while it gives Tim some
artificial vision, it doesn’t restore his sight, so Violet is still by his side.
Image courtesy of Designcat photography
++Caption competition
Thanks to Dumfries puppy walker Helen Denholm for sending in this picture of puppy Nushka
helping out in the garden. What do you think is going through Nushka’s mind? Please send your
caption idea on a postcard to Forward, Guide Dogs, Hillfields, Burghfield Common, Reading RG7
3YG, or e-mail forward@guidedogs.org.uk. Remember to include your name and address. The
winner will receive a £10 Marks and Spencer voucher.
Included here is a picture of Nushka sitting in a large flower pot underneath a plant.
The winner of the last caption competition was Ian Noble with: “I get all my toys online these
days.” Congratulations, Ian - we hope you enjoy your voucher.
Included here is a photograph of guide dog puppy Gillan. Gillan is on hind legs, reaching for one
of the toys which is hanging on the washing line.
Partnerships quiz Thank you for entering our autumn quiz. The winner was Paula Pinder, who
wins a £10 Marks and Spencer voucher.
Correct answers: 1 Toto, 2 Boo-Boo, 3 Dick Dastardly, 4 Batman, 5 Scrappy Doo
++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 14 March 2014.
[Back to contents]
Promotions
The following are five advertisements that are presented in different places in this issue of
Forward.
++1. Share an amazing adventure - from just £1 a week.
Why not sponsor an adorable guide dog puppy as they train to change the life of a person who is
blind or partially sighted. You’ll follow their amazing journey every step of the way with regular
photos and updates. So why wait?
You can sponsor a puppy right now.
Text “GUIDE” to 63333 or visit http://www.sponsorapuppy.org.uk
Here’s what you’ll receive
Pictured here are various Pupdate publications, including Pupdates, Photocards and a photo
album.
SPONSOR A PUPPY
A charity registered in England and Wales (209617) and Scotland (SC038979). 6044 09/13
Included within this promotion is a picture of a guide dog puppy running in a field.
The Guide Dogs’ logo is pictured on the top right hand side of the page.
++2. Helping change the lives of blind and partially sighted people has never been more fun!
Enter our Lucky Lottery now and you could win up to £3,000. Each entry costs just £1.
Call: 0800 6888406
http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/luckylottery
Not to be sold to or by any person under 16 years of age. Licensed by the Gambling Commission
under the Gambling Act 2005, http://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
http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/gamcare or contact the GamCare National Helpline on 0845
6000133.
LUCKY LOTTERY
Included within this promotion is a picture of a guide dog puppy surrounded by various lottery
numbers.
The Guide Dogs’ logo is pictured on the top right hand side of the page.
++3. Gifts in Wills
Will you leave a gift that’s full of life?
Guide dog Pippa is there for her owner Lynette all day, every day. She’s given her the confidence
to start enjoying her whole life again without relying on others. “With Pippa by my side, my
friends can be my friends not my carers,” says Lynette. Please leave a gift in your Will to Guide
Dogs and help visually impaired people live every day to the full.
For a free information pack and DVD, visit http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/life, call us on 0845
3727371 or fill in the form.
Title:
Name:
Address:
Postcode:
Phone No.:
Please return in an envelope to:
Freepost RSBC-ARYS-YATB, Gifts in Wills Team, Guide Dogs, Chippenham SN14 6NG
A13058001
A charity registered in England and Wales (209617) and Scotland (SC038979).
Included within this promotion are various pictures of Lynette and Pippa at different times of the
day.
The Guide Dogs’ logo is pictured on the right hand side of the page.
++4. Name a Puppy
Change a Life
What will you call yours?
Puppy sponsorship packages from £2,500 - £50,000 (plus VAT)
Our puppy sponsorship packages make perfect business sense! Not only can you use the benefits
of your sponsorship to communicate and engage with your customers, your employees will love it
too!
Contact us on 0118 9838208 for further details.
What is included?
[The following is a table, the text has been lifted for your reference.]
Package Name: Donate a Name £2.5k
Name the puppy: Yes
Birth Certificate: Yes
Regular Updates 0-12 months: No
Regular Updates 12-20 months: No
Annual Updates Yrs 3 & 4: No
Number of photos: 1
Number of visits: 0
Package Name: Walk £7.5k
Name the puppy: Yes
Birth Certificate: Yes
Regular Updates 0-12 months: Yes
Regular Updates 12-20 months: No
Annual Updates Yrs 3 & 4: No
Number of photos: 2
Number of visits: 1
Package Name: Learn £10k
Name the puppy: Yes
Birth Certificate: Yes
Regular Updates 0-12 months: Yes
Regular Updates 12-20 months: Yes
Annual Updates Yrs 3 & 4: No
Number of photos: 3
Number of visits: 2
Package Name: Guide * £50k
Name the puppy: Yes
Birth Certificate: Yes
Regular Updates 0-12 months: Yes
Regular Updates 12-20 months: Yes
Annual Updates Yrs 3 & 4: Yes
Number of photos: 3 plus
Number of visits: 3 plus
[End of table.]
* Additional benefits can be negotiated by your account manager for the Guide sponsorship
package.
Registered charity in England and Wales (209617) and in Scotland (SC038979) 6063 12/13
Included within this promotion is a picture of a guide dog puppy lying down.
The Guide Dogs’ logo is pictured on the top right hand side of the page.
++5. Dogalogue
Gifts that transform lives
Your pooch or your partner?
Who’ll be your Valentine?
Show the ones you love that you’re thinking of them this Valentine’s Day with a gift from
Dogalogue.
Heart shaped cheese
£18.99 400g
Code: 14900
This is most certainly not a cheesy gift, but one that will make sure you win your chosen one’s
heart. This heart-shaped cheddar truckle comes delivered in a specially designed box to ensure it
tastes absolutely delicious when the lucky recipient opens it.
Special introductory price
Heart shaped scarf hanger
£3.99
Code: 14300
Our best-selling butterfly scarf hanger gets the romantic treatment - in a gorgeous heart shape, it
will keep all of her scarves neatly stored.
Raw hide dog Valentine’s card
£6.99
Code: 14700
Make your doggy’s day with this delicious raw hide card - comes complete with envelope so you
can send it in the post.
Please quote D14001101 or indicate you read this advert in Forward when ordering
Visit http://www.dogalogue.com or call 0845 3711371
100% of profits go to Guide Dogs.
Visit http://www.dogalogue.com to find our range of gifts, stationery, homewares and pet
products and to request a copy of our new catalogue (due out March 2014).
Included within this promotion is a picture of a jack russell holding a rose in his mouth.
The Guide Dogs’ logo is pictured on the right hand side of the page.
[Back to contents]
Contact Details
++This is a list of phone numbers and contact details arising from the articles in this edition of
Forward Magazine.
Sponsor a puppy
Text: “GUIDE” to 63333
Visit: http://www.sponsorapuppy.org.uk
Lucky Lottery
Call: 0800 6888406
Visit: http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/luckylottery
Gambling Commission
Visit: http://www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk
GamCare
Visit: http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/gamcare
GamCare National Helpline
Call: 0845 6000133
Safe and Sound campaign
Visit: http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/safeandsound
An inspiring conversation
Visit: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b03g0936
NBCS’s CustomEyes
Call: 0118 9838346
E-mail: customeyes@nbcs.org.uk
Visit: http://www.nbcs.org.uk/customeyes
On the campaign trail
E-mail: campaigns@guidedogs.org.uk
Call: 0800 0284348
Twitter: @gdcampaigns
Visit: http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/campaigns
“A Family Day Out”
Visit: http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/makeithappen
Children and technology
Call: 0118 9838329
E-mail: lucy.winton@nbcs.org.uk
My Guide
E-mail: myguide@guidedogs.org.uk
Call: 0118 9838187
Sponsor a Puppy
Call: 0870 2406993
Visit: http://www.sponsorapuppy.org.uk
Buddy Dogs
Visit: http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/services/buddy-dogs
Call: 0118 9835555
cottages4you
Visit: http://www.cottages-4-you.co.uk/guidedogs
Call: 0845 2681762
Gifts in Wills free information pack and DVD
Visit: http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/life
Call: 0845 3727371
Gifts in Wills
Call: 0845 6031477
E-mail: giftsinwills@guidedogs.org.uk
Awards
Visit: http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/awards
Breed stock holder
Visit: http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/supportus/volunteering
National Breeding Centre
Call: 0845 3727432
Dogs Unite for Guide Dogs
Visit: http://www.facebook.com/dogsunite
Crufts
Visit: http://www.crufts.org.uk
BBC Gardener’s World
Visit: http://www.bbcgardenersworldlive.com
Guide Dogs events
Visit: http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/events
Call: 0845 6006787
Canine obituaries
E-mail: forward@guidedogs.org.uk
Write to: Forward at Hillfields, Burghfield Common, Reading, RG7 3YG
Bereavement Service
Call: 0800 0966606
E-mail: pbssmail@bluecross.org.uk
Caption competition
Write to: Forward, Guide Dogs, Hillfields, Burghfield Common, Reading RG7 3YG
E-mail: forward@guidedogs.org.uk
Name a Puppy
Call: 0118 9838208
Dogalogue
Visit: http://www.dogalogue.com
Call: 0845 3711371
[Back to contents]
New partnerships
++Congratulations to our new partnerships
Key:
x - Crossbreed
CCR - Curly Coat Retriever
COL - Collie
FCR - Flat Coat Retriever
GR - Golden Retriever
GSD - German Shepherd Dog
IWS - Irish Water Spaniel
L - Labrador
SPIN - Spinone
STP - Standard Poodle
New partnerships are listed by Mobility Team. Each listing details owner, guide dog, town, breed,
puppy walker and brood bitch holder. Warm congratulations to all our new qualifiers.
++Belfast
Steven Barns & Zane from Lisburn GSDxGR, Robert & Vera Gordon from Aberdeen, Mr and Mrs
Simpson from Leamington Spa
Mark Harrigan & Lady from Londonderry L, Gordon John McGregor from Tayport, Sandra
Sweetland from Stratford-upon-Avon
Lauren Hurley & Sparky from Omagh L, Nancy Taylor from Kilmarnock, Liz Russell-Yarde from
Coventry
Eleanor Jackson & Ivan from Craigavon L, Dick & Pamela Milestone from Leyburn, Jeanette
Hannon from Oldbury
Rosemary McEvoy & Gabby from Craigavon GRxGSD, Jl Banks from Carnoustie, Anne Cadwallader
from Southam
Andrea McLaughlin & Gina from Londonderry GRxGSD, Diane McRoberts from Dunfermline, Anne
Cadwallader from Southam
Jean Murray & Heidi from Enniskillen GRxL, Ann Fraser from Kirkcaldy, Marie Court from
Halesowen
Kirsten Robson & Kip from Newtownards L, Robert Kirk from Irvine, Marie-Claire Montgomery
from Leamington Spa
++Birmingham
Andrew Bailey & Ufton from Hereford STPxL, Jane Moore from Milton Keynes, Rachel Cutler from
Rugby
Elizabeth Baio & Yazmin from Worcester LxGR, Sue Davy from Oldbury, Sue Davy from Oldbury
Catherine Fenwick & Wyn from Cheltenham L, Susan Williams from Paignton, Natasha Brady from
Northampton
Anthony Gough & Rodney from Birmingham L, Susan Philpott from Dudley, Debra Williams from
Melton Mowbray
Karen & Zorro from Birmingham GRxL, Barbara Glover from Stourbridge, Ruth Philpott from
Malvern
Megan Paul & Tate from Cheltenham GRxL, Carol Edwards from Bedworth, Mr and Mrs Cope from
Birmingham
John Stancombe & Yosef from Cinderford LxGR, Julie March from Cannock, Alison Morton from
Leamington Spa
Tracey Wilson & Albert from Quedgeley GRxL, Pat Hill from Leicester, Tracy Twomey from
Leamington Spa
++Cardiff
Jackie Bethell & Dash from Cardiff GR, Gwill and Dawn James from Pontypool, S Priestman from
Rushden
Sue Canham & Anjelo from Tenby GRxL, Michael Davie from Loughborough, Y Dillon from
Warwick
Susan Foley & April from Swansea LxGR, Jeannette Draper from Ross On Wye, Brenda Mead from
Tewkesbury, Erica Dowse from Coventry
Nathan Foy & Mason from Cardiff GRxL, Patricia Joyce from Abingdon, Barbara Swain from
Leamington Spa
James Gibb & Alfie from Tredegar LxGR, Sheila Stephens from Pontypridd, Joan Raxter from
Redditch
Sharon Howells & Palmer from Cardiff GRxFCR, Elizabeth Bullimore from Pontypool, Alison Jordan
from Stafford
Louise Jenkins & Quinta from Llandysul L, Jessica Jones from Cheltenham, Gordon Macrae from
Over Norton
Gwilym Thomas Jones & Poppy from Corwen GRxL, Dawn Moore from Leigh, P Whitehead from
Dukinfield, Jane Chance from Kidderminster
Geraldine Newman & Kandy from Monmouth GRxGSD, Norah Clarke from Porthcawl, Trudy Evans
from Coventry
Joanne O’Connor & Opal from Hengoed L, Jackie Horton from Stratford-upon-Avon, Janice Briggs
from Leamington Spa
Rory Roberts & Nutmeg from Newcastle Emlyn GRxL, Doctor Janine Hale-Brown from Bristol,
Robert Jones from Rushden
Lisa Tainton & Ava from Pontypool GSD, Joan Raxter from Redditch, Amanda Turner from
Shrewsbury
++Coventry
Sheila Armstrong & Zena from Market Harborough GRxL, Serena Jones from Bristol, Ruth Philpott
from Malvern
Maggie Bowes & Yuan from Warwick LxGR, Alison Bamford-Elsdon from Newton Abbot, Alison
Morton from Leamington Spa
Lyndall Burnham & Evie from Loughborough GRxL, Val Jackson from Kidderminster, Phil Revill
from Southam
Robin Christopherson & Archie from Warwick GSD, Angela Cutter from Solihull, Amanda Turner
from Shrewsbury
Jean Cooper & Uska from Leicester LxGR, Deborah Jones from Cardiff, Mr and Mrs Davies from
Telford
Margaret Cusker & Quip from Rugby L, Helen Denholm-Simmonds from Stourport-On-Severn, Mr
and Mrs Wood from Leicester
Mike Duxbury & Drifter from Towcester L, Clare Mahoney from Bridgwater, Clare Turton from
Solihull
Peter Funnell & Zorro from Leicester GRxGSD, Jane French from Banbury, Sue Wilkins from
Rugby
Alyse Garner & Lola from Loughborough L, Peter John Bratt from Holmfirth
Carole Houghton & Grace from Loughborough LxGR, Linda Hogg from Coalville, Erica Dowse from
Coventry
Ann Hutchins & Jackson from Sileby GRxL, Elaine Hooton from Hinckley, Caroline Lyons from
Nuneaton
Jean King & Purdey from Bristol GRxL, Roger Walters from Coseley, Jayne Hallam from Walsall
Richard Williams & Nugget from Loughborough GRxL, Patricia Jones from Bridgwater, Robert
Jones from Rushden
Adrian Wright & Jamie from Rugby GRxGSD, W Whiller from Plymouth, Julia Evans from
Bromsgrove
++Edinburgh
Stuart Beveridge & Ron from Lochgelly GRxL, Raymond Brown from Belfast, Adrian Newitt from
Leamington Spa
Cheryl Bradshaw & Dulci from Glasgow GRxL, Fiona Webster from Dundee, Clare Shortt from
Kidderminster
Jean Coates & Toby from Kirkby Stephen GR, Margaret Woodward from Forres, Joy Dickinson
from Abingdon
John Hendry & Orchy from Aberdeen GRxL, Steve & Jane Baron from Stirling, Steve Shaw from
Coalville
Murray Jenkinson & Earl from Musselburgh GRxL, Douglas Walker from Ardrossan, Jason Webb
from Birmingham
Andrew Logue & Zenner from Helensburgh GSDxGR, Alan McGrath from Bangor, Sandra Smyth
from Newtownards, Mr and Mrs Simpson from Leamington Spa
David Millan & Beth from Edinburgh LxGR, Stacey Tighe from Linlithgow, Les Powell from Coalville
Ronald Paterson & Hudson from Loanhead GRxL, Kenneth Macgregor from Glasgow, Marie Court
from Halesowen
Brian Rattray & Yakira from Edinburgh LxGR, Lynne Dickie from Irvine, Alison Morton from
Leamington Spa
Peter Ricca & Chester from Denny L, Alan Knott from Dumfries, Simon Hubble from Bilston
Jeff Rooney & Holly from Gateshead GRxL, Hazel Hope from Inverurie, Cath Pedreschi from
Evesham
Steven Rutherford & Danny from Portobello GRxL, Mr and Mrs Coleman from Dundee, Clare
Shortt from Kidderminster
Alfreda Weir & Newton from Dunfermline LxGR, Heather Maginn from Lisburn
++Exeter
Pauline Abley & Jazz from Saint Austell GRxL, Nicola Scarrott from Witney, Caroline Lyons from
Nuneaton
Pat Alexander & Pearl from Bristol LxGR, Margaret Calam from Beaworthy, Mary Cheesman from
Southam
Alicia Burchell & Mini from Bristol L, Lyndsey Bardsley from Stonehouse, Steve Parsons from
Cirencester
Derek Cross & Isaac from Paignton L, Val Rowe from Stafford, Sally Prime from Walsall, William
Kelso from Alcester
Pauline Dunne & Pudsey from Newport LxGR, Hugh King from Yeovil, Mary Cheesman from
Southam
Mark Evans & Olga from Cardiff GSD, Janet Steyn from Plymouth, Carla Nieuwenhuizen from
Banbury
Brian Harrison & Eric from Plymouth GRxGSD, Robert & Vera Gordon from Aberdeen
Stephen Hartley & Alfie from Tavistock LxGR, Michael Ferguson from Coalville, Erica Dowse from
Coventry
Jennifer [Jen] James & Lindley from Sidmouth STPxL, Barbara Searing from Altrincham, Mr and
Mrs Phipps from Lechlade
Eve Lopez & Jodi from Exeter GRxL, Ian and Avril Wonnacott from Okehampton, Rebecca Jackson
from Kidderminster
Timothy Mitchell & Kara from Bristol LxGSD, Patricia Revell from Solihull, Beryl Wyrko from
Leicester
Katie O’Dare & Ivy from Ashburton GRxL, Kairen Dawe from Paignton, David Windhaber from
Northampton
Irene Randall & Jenna from Teignmouth L, Kim Hewlett from Stratford-upon-Avon, Linda Sheehan
from Sutton Coldfield
Steffanie Wise & Dixon from Launceston L, Mel Horsell from Plymouth, David Windhaber from
Northampton
++Glasgow
Liam James Doran & Razor from Glasgow L, Aileen Murphy from Aberdeen, David Yarwood from
Birmingham
Janet Fleming & Quella from Hamilton GRxL, Lynne & Ron Page from Kirkcaldy, Dr Josie
Blackshaw from Coventry
George Gray & Alexander from Glasgow L, Sybil Gibb from Penicuik, Jill Gordon-Lennox from
Worcester
Anne Maclean & Kane from Grantown-on-Spey L, Jeanette Bradley from Montrose, Marie-Claire
Montgomery from Leamington Spa
Fiona Maynard & Olive from Bethersden GRxL, Debbie Williamson from Glasgow, Pamela Craigie
from Glasgow, Rebecca Leat from Towcester
Michael McGhee & Ricky from Airdrie GRxL, Catherine Gallagher from Bangor, Susan Hayes from
Northampton
Matthew Melville & Palmer from Glasgow GRxL, Jo Thomas from Tillicoultry, Stewart Simpson
from Burntisland, Mr and Mrs Dawson from Kenilworth
Elizabeth Obern and Stan from Inverness L, Anne Simpson from Nairn, Liz Russell-Yarde from
Coventry
Bobby Stenhouse & Gismo from Beith GRxGSD, Stuart & Colette Robertson from Kirriemuir, Anne
Cadwallader from Southam
Elizabeth Stirling & Dusty from Greenock GRxL, Elaine Cooper from Elgin, John Allsopp from
Leamington Spa
Matthew Ward & Ursula from Paisley LxGR, Patricia Clarke from Inverurie, John Starkey from
Malvern
++Hull
Peter Admans & Quaver from Spalding GRxL, Barbara Milhench from Littleborough, Sue Price
from Claverdon
Shane Gibson & Bailey from Driffield L, Kerry Smith from Southwell, Dee Moloney from
Leamington Spa
Keith James & Hamish from Hull GRxL, Graham & Mary Moorcroft from Derby, Robert Walpole
from Cirencester
Ann Kohler & Bella from Hull L, David Ryder from Warrington, Mr and Mrs Hicks from Lytham
Saint Annes, Elaine Roberts from Stourbridge
David Mallaby & Flossie from Near Driffield L, Ambrose Greenfield from York, Dawn Wood from
Kenilworth
Caroline Ramsden & Millie from Grimsby L, Gwendoline Elizabeth Higginbottom from Sheffield,
Linda Morris from Stratford-upon-Avon
Jean Seeley & Laura from Lincoln GRxL, Susan Brown from Wirral, Janet Stokes from Dudley
Susan Simmons & Talbot from Immingham GRxL, Carol Gray from Wetherby, Steve Shaw from
Coalville
Sally Stoker & Kiki from Selby GRxGSD, Mrs Farrelly from Leeds, Trudy Evans from Coventry
++Leeds
Anne Bennett & Stevie from Wakefield LxGR, Peter McFarland from Ballyclare, County Antrim
Emma Frank & Katie from Malton GRxL, Sarah Saunby from Sheffield, Mr and Mrs Coughlan from
Lutterworth
Sophie Mayer-King & Gypsy from Huddersfield GRxGSD, Louise McLoughlin from Knutsford, Anne
Cadwallader from Southam
Alice Morris & Teddy from Harrogate GRxL, Mike & Chris O’Dowd from York, Mrs Cope from
Birmingham
Julie Murphy & Rolo from Wakefield L, David Brown from Lanark, David Yarwood from
Birmingham
Mary Naylor & Quest from Leeds GRxGSD, Teresa Syers from Morecambe, Amanda Turner from
Shrewsbury
Kevin Nicholson & Kent from Wakefield L, Lesley Trickett from Leeds, Rita Farnsworth from
Keighley, Jill Gordon-Lennox from Worcester
Janet Perfitt & Titan from Bradford GRxL, Kay Kelly from Stockport, Philip Swallow from Warwick
David Tayne & Ivor from Scarborough L, Pauline Green from Wilmslow, Jeanette Hannon from
Oldbury
Heather Thackray & Tia from Leeds GRxL, Vincent Joseph Thorpe from Wakefield, Steve Shaw
from Coalville
Anne Welsh & Betty from Huddersfield GRxL, Joanne Hemsworth from Leeds, Tony and Anita
Thorpe from Leeds, Victoria Milligan from Henley-in-Arden
++Liverpool
Mark Bell & Fizz from Liverpool L, Josephine Brown from Liverpool, J Wassell from Warwick
Louise Brackley & Jaydee from Saint Helens GRxL, Diane Dickinson from Preston, Doctor Josie
Blackshaw from Coventry
Anne Bradbury & Zally from Lymm L, Susan Summersgill from Huddersfield, Joyce Ebbage from
Stockport, Eve Smith from Tanworth In Arden
Jack Cullen & Henry from Liverpool LxGR, Derrick Harding from Wirral, Hazel Cross from Evesham
Claire Currie & Gulliver from Liverpool L, D Fletcher from Bolton, Ruth Mercer from Warwick
Naomi Ditchfield & Dixie from Liverpool GRxL, Mari Sturgess from Clwyd, Elizabeth Dale from
Chester, Clare Shortt from Kidderminster
Jean Drinkwater & Kit from Stockport L, Hazel Evelyn Eyre from Barnsley, Karen Robbens from
Leamington Spa
Marcus Ellwand & Ozzie from Wirral L, Bruce Thomas Lunt from Macclesfield, Jeanette Hannon
from Oldbury
Stuart Hutcheson & Spencer from Chester L, Robert Sampson from Liverpool, Liz Russell-Yarde
from Coventry
Joyce Jones & Polly from Ellesmere Port GRxL, Claxton from Warrington, Janette Baines from
Burton-on-Trent
Sandra Massey & Jean from Chester L, Ann Green from Malpas, Andrew Starr from Devizes
Julie Napier & Winston from Liverpool GRxL, Linda Williams from Liverpool, Sarah Mitchell from
Stratford-upon-Avon
Joanne Redhead & Bart from Saint Helens L, Alan Turner from Bolton, Maureen Armitage from
Leamington Spa
Michael Robinson & Gromet from Wallasey L, Dorothy Jones from Chester, Ruth Mercer from
Warwick
Daniel Seasman & Kane from Liverpool L, Lisa Jane Simms from Atherton, Lynn Nicholson from
Bolton, Karen Robbens from Leamington Spa
Sandra Taylor & Bessie from Liverpool LxGR, Doreen Taylor from Manchester, John Starkey from
Malvern
Marlene Tennent & Vann from Newton-le-Willows L, Susan Flush from Wirral, Christine Smith
from Kenilworth
++London
Joy Addo & Faith from Roehampton LxL, Peter Sillett from Witham, Dawn Wood from Kenilworth
Angela Armin & Unis from Essex STPxL, Susan Wilks from Slough, Rachel Cutler from Rugby
Roy Benjamin & Ufton from Morden GSD, Rob & Valerie Sibley from Perth, Rachel Moxon from
Stockton
Shaun Burke & Rattie from Woodford Green LxGR, Elaine Cole from Colchester, Erica Dowse from
Coventry
Derek Coughlan & Robson from Morden L, Penny Parker from Felixstowe, Clare Turton from
Solihull
Mary Cox & John from Wallington L, Geraldine and Peter Blackman from Chelmsford, Paul
Rackham from Rugby
Rosemary Everall & May from London GRxL, Trisha Wiggins-Browne from Huntingdon, Robert
Jones from Rushden
David Griffith & Nyle from London GRxL, Madge Tierney from Huntingdon, Robert Jones from
Rushden
Graham Hoppe & Jock from West Drayton LxGR, Rosemary Thompson from Witham, Mary
Cheesman from Southam
Arnaldo Jesus & Elliot from London L, Kay Lowe from Ely, Rachel Davis from Kettering
Hayley Johnson & Foxy from London GRxL, Susan Smalley from Ascot, Sarah Pagan from
Leamington Spa
John Mathews & Nessie from Sidcup L, Jack Morris from Swanley, Victoria Milligan from Henleyin-Arden
Thelma Mouque & Marley from London GRxL, Julie Ansell from Knebworth, Susan Brooker from
Harpenden, Trish Agnew from Stevenage, Vincent Phipps from Knebworth, Vanessa Jones from
Rugby
Usiomwanta Olanipekun & Saffie from London LxGR, Lorna Fryer from Ashford, Sally Barsby from
Buckingham
Kevin Satizabal & Pickles from London LxGR, Vivienne Hill from Waltham Abbey, Mary Cheesman
from Southam
David Steward & Unis from London STPxL, Paula Guy from Sittingbourne, Linda Brush from West
Haddon
Dawn Uffindell & Harry from Croydon L, Victoria Upton from Basildon, Pat Tuffs from Dartford,
Myriam Steadman from Welling, Margaret Buckingham from Warwick
David Whiting & Kez from London LxGSD, Barbara Halliwell from Hitchin, Lynda Graham from
Harpenden, Jean Nield from Harpenden, Beryl Wyrko from Leicester
Leyla Okekeogbu and Jasper from London L, Charlotte and Adele Marshall-Reynolds from
Swindon, Joan McCann from Swindon, Tracy Burns from Newbury, Linda Sheehan from Sutton
Coldfield
++Maidstone
Mark Bailey & Kit from Gravesend LxGSD, Suzanne Patrick from Rochester, Beryl Wyrko from
Leicester
Sandra Bethell & Olwen from Sevenoaks L, Jeff Tremain from Tonbridge, Janice Briggs from
Leamington Spa
Nicola Broughton & Edward from Haywards Heath STPxL, Sheila George from Waltham Cross,
Jacqueline Lodge from London, Linda Brush from West Haddon
Stephen Butler & Joy from Broadstairs GRxL, Toni Bradburn from Saint Albans, Rebecca Jackson
from Kidderminster
Alun Elder-Brown & Bonny from Tunbridge Wells LxGR, Jacqueline Everitt from Billericay, Annette
Ashton from March, Joan Raxter from Redditch
Kim Kirtley & Hugo from Ashford LxGR, Susan Brooker from Harpenden, Lynda Graham from
Harpenden, Judy Blencowe from Hitchin, Joan Raxter from Redditch
Jonathan Lee & Major from Tonbridge GRxL, Jim and Sue Bailey from Chelmsford, Sandra
Hoffman from Coventry
Margaret Murray-Rowe & Imber from Swanscombe LxGR, Angela Lawton from Nottingham, Jane
Innes from Stourbridge
Patricia Poole & Zebedee from Deal LxGR, Kim Bassett from Andover, Elizabeth Macdonald from
Wantage, Sharon Hagen from Wantage, Wendy Terry from Hungerford, Elizabeth Henry from
Leamington Spa
Carla Savage & Bracken from Tonbridge GR, Janette Caulfield from Halstead, Janet Evans from
Warwick
++Manchester
Joyce Acton & Hannah from Manchester GRxL, David John Laverick from York, J Pearson from
York, Marie Court from Halesowen
Jim Coulthard & Eddie from Darwen GRxL, Barbara Helen Cox from Warrington, Adrian Newitt
from Leamington Spa
David Halliwell & Zodiac from Wigan GSDxGR, Fred Barber from Inverurie, Mr and Mrs Simpson
from Leamington Spa
Fred Hernandez & Quincey from Manchester GRxL, Lizz Johnson from Leeds, Sue Price from
Claverdon
Toel Koyithara & Sheba from Wigan L, Jason and Angela Mitchell from Halifax, Liz Russell-Yarde
from Coventry
Christine McVinnie & Kylie from Wigan GRxGSD, Sarah Richardson from Northallerton, Trudy
Evans from Coventry
Joshua Seddon & Jack from Bolton GRxL, Kathryn Freeman from Derbyshire, Valerie Veness from
Sutton Coldfield
Alan Shannon & Rolo from Stockport GRxL, Lynda Dodds from Chester, Dawn Collins from Telford
Alison Vas & Blake from Eccles L, Clive Ringrose from Newcastle Upon Tyne, Dawn Collins from
Telford
Kathleen Watson & Hattie from Rossendale LxGR, Margaret Reid from Stockton-on-Tees, Hazel
Cross from Evesham
++Newcastle
Deanna Fishwick & Truffles from Grange-Over-Sands L, Graeme Danskin from Edinburgh, Sheila
Higgins from Milton Keynes
Darren Tambin & Hamish from Coxhoe LxGR, Mr and Mrs Begg from Dundee, Hazel Cross from
Evesham
Dot Luck & Worthy from Stockton-on-Tees GRxL, Margaret Gibson from Ballater, Mrs Coughlan
from Lutterworth
Sheila Woodcock & Glenn from Darlington GRxL, Alana Ayres from Newtownards, Adrian Newitt
from Leamington Spa
Melissa Worster & Yaron from Wigton GRxL, David Jamieson from Dumfries, Mrs Field from
Warwick
++Nottingham
Gail Ashby & Robin from Derby L, Gillian Swift from Sheffield, Jean Robinson from Sheffield, Pat
Stafford from Calverton
Claire Cooper & Lilly from Nottingham GRxL, Deborah Broadbent from Thornton Cleveleys, John
Allsopp from Leamington Spa
Jane Farren & Nell from Buxton GRxL, C Heap from Bedale, Dawson from Kenilworth
Paul Grayson & Kenco from Ripley GRxGSD, Julie Jones from York, Trudy Evans from Coventry
Tyler Henderson & Riley from Chesterfield L, Helen Robson from Leeds, Jeannie Stephenson from
Northallerton, David Yarwood from Birmingham
Rebecca Kinnis & Fifi from Doncaster LxL, Joanna Levey from Cramlington, Dawn Wood from
Kenilworth
Beverly Kitchin & Hannah from Sheffield GRxL, Louise Callaghan from Chorley, William Hunter
from Leyland
Timothy Musson & Frankie from Newark STPxL, Malcolm Moore from Sidcup, Rachel Cutler from
Rugby
David Piggott & Ezra from Derby GRxL, Peter Simpson from Bury, Jason Webb from Birmingham
Sally Spowage & Winnie from Nottingham L, Lorraine Meehan from Wetherby, Dawn Collins from
Telford
Bill Stacey & Robbie from Nottingham L, Melanie Briggs from Sheffield, Marie-Claire Montgomery
from Leamington Spa
Stephen Wood & Wizard from Derby GRxGSD, Theresa Chandler from Newcastle Upon Tyne, Julia
Evans from Bromsgrove
++Peterborough
Carolyn Allum & Ally from Ipswich LxGR, Sara Dixon from London, Erica Dowse from Coventry
Georgina Chambers & Luci from Lowestoft L, Sarah Buckland from Colchester, Gordon Macrae
from Over Norton
Anne Frith & Paul from Beccles LxGR, Kathy Minter from Colchester, Mr and Mrs Davies from
Telford
Marion Mansfield & Gus from Cambridge GRxL, Diana Reynolds from Cambridge, Alison Ashley
from Daventry
Piers Nummelin & Willow from Bury Saint Edmunds LxGR, Ruth Savage from Peterborough, Anna
Adams from Daventry
Clare Simmons & Alexis from Norwich GRxL, Judy Blencowe from Hitchin, Jean Nield from
Harpenden, Lynda Graham from Harpenden, Susan Brooker from Harpenden, Helen Bonnett from
Leigh
Lisa Smith & Unity from Great Yarmouth STPxL, Maxine Bloom from Billericay, Linda Brush from
West Haddon
Spencer Westhorpe & Floss from Norwich L, Emma Evanson from Chelmsford, Sheila Coton from
Birmingham
++Reading
Leesa Crockett & Barley from High Wycombe LxGR, Tessa Kirkwood from Cambridge, Joan Raxter
from Redditch
Shirley Fitall & Nola from Epsom GRxL, Linda Fleming from Erith, Robert Jones from Rushden
John Griffiths & George from Chichester GRxL, Bob Waldock from Benfleet, John Marchant from
Milton Keynes
Wendy Hulford & Pippa from Redhill GRxL, Lorraine Kennedy from Banstead, Eve Smith from
Tanworth In Arden
Tina Shallis & Amber from Chichester LxGR, Philippa Bushe from London, Erica Dowse from
Coventry
Isobel Walker & Jodie from Esher L, Carey Timms from Swindon, Joan McCann from Swindon,
Fiona Lazenby from Swindon, Linda Sheehan from Sutton Coldfield
Alison Wallduck & Gini from Milton Keynes GRxL, Karen Read from Ashford, John Marchant from
Milton Keynes
Tarik Zaid & Fagan from Redhill GRxL, Colin Carn from Plymouth, Valerie Lurcock from Newton
Abbot, Sarah Pagan from Leamington Spa
++Shrewsbury
Philip Anderson & Quinta from Newcastle L, Brian Holloway from Congleton, Linda Morris from
Stratford-upon-Avon
Leslie Bloomfield & Millie from Tamworth LxGR, Julia Rodwell from Milton Keynes, Tracey
Wilkinson from Telford
Rex Bowers & Isca from Telford L, Ian Lister from Hartlepool, Jeanette Hannon from Oldbury
Pauline Dunn & Guiness from Stoke-on-Trent L, Hilary Battersby from Preston, Ruth Mercer from
Warwick
Malgorzata Galbarczyk & Bob from Birmingham GRxL, Peter and Susan Revitt from Sheffield,
Dawn Collins from Telford
Danny Gleeson & Dylan from Wolverhampton GRxL, Alison Wright from Warrington, Clare Shortt
from Kidderminster
George Higginson & Barney from Newcastle L, Joyce Williams from Heanor, Dee Moloney from
Leamington Spa
Richard Lyons & Yannis from Stoke-on-Trent LxGR, Philippa Skinner from Wirral, Alison Morton
from Leamington Spa
Nathan Marsh & Gibson from Wollaston L, Seema Chauhan from Nottingham, Ruth Mercer from
Warwick
Alex Stitt & Questa from Oldbury GRxL, Christine Rimmer from Oldham, Sue Price from Claverdon
Lisa Wharton & Orla from Kingswinford GRxL, Karen Wardle from Ashton-Under-Lyne, Rebecca
Leat from Towcester
++Southampton
Iris Burton-Cave & Upton from Christchurch LxGR, Claire Kendall from Worcester, Daniel Rowe
from Warwick, John Starkey from Malvern
Vivian Harman & Mortimer from Swindon GRxL, Lee Blanning from Pontypool, Barbara Swain from
Leamington Spa
Sam Hebditch & Oakley from Wimborne L, Kathleen Kelly from Tamworth, Janice Briggs from
Leamington Spa
Jaime Home & Simpson from Southampton L, Michelle Cooke from Milton Keynes, Jacki Boyle
from Telford
Rex Johnson & Zak from Wareham GRxL, Pam Truman from Solihull, Ruth Philpott from Malvern
Kevin Kitching & Ashleigh from Petersfield GSD, Keith Lyon from Walsall, Mr and Mrs Tindall from
Coventry
Annette Newell & Sheena from Eastleigh GRxFCR, Michael Clifford from Neath, John Rogers from
Bromsgrove
Peter Reynolds & Tony from Ryde GRxL, Debbie Johnson from Hitchin, Vincent Phipps from
Knebworth, Anne Lloyd from Welwyn, Malcolm Howard from Wheathampstead, Phil Revill from
Southam
Ann Simmons & Betty from Southampton L, Cheryl Williams from Higham Ferrers, Gordon Macrae
from Over Norton
Josephine Spears & Fizz from Swindon GRxL, Diane Godfrey from Holcombe, Sarah Pagan from
Leamington Spa
++Welwyn Garden City
Kevin Cook & Danny from Southend-on-Sea L, Guy William Cresswell from Clwyd, Lynda Dodds
from Chester, Ellen Summerton from Leamington Spa
Jan Goniszewski & Jeaves from Rickmansworth GRxL, Elizabeth Greenaway from Wickford,
Caroline Lyons from Nuneaton
Claire Maxwell & Kim from Southend-on-Sea LxGSD, Lynne Dakin from Woodford Green, Julia
Wright from Romford, Beryl Wyrko from Leicester
Joan Roberts & Zara from North Walsham GRxL, Judy Cockburn from Chelmsford, Ruth Philpott
from Malvern
++Breeding Stock
Abbey, 25.09.13, GR, Bitch, Mrs S Burgess from Buckingham, Mrs G Blackman from Chelmsford
Abby, 15.08.13, GR, Bitch, Mr & Mrs J Roberts from Brackley, Mrs A Nuttall from Redditch
Apple, 12.06.13, L, Bitch, Outside Bred, Doctor F Crichton from Laurieston, Mr DA Smith
from Bridge Of Don
Casey, 25.09.13, GR, Bitch, Mrs S Burgess from Buckingham, Mrs M Hubbard from Bexleyheath,
Mrs J Fortnum from West Malling
Fizz, 15.08.13, L, Bitch, Mrs J Jennison from Warwick, Mrs S Watt from Maud, Mr & Mrs A Bibb
from Aberdeen
Folly, 03.09.13, L, Bitch, Mrs J Jennison from Warwick, Mrs V Brown from Northallerton
Inky, 15.08.13, L, Bitch, Ms J Macqueen from Fenny Compton, Mrs R Beddoes from Perth
Jodi, 12.06.13, L, Bitch, Ms D Collins from Telford, Mrs M Evered from Bromley
Joy, 07.06.13, GR, Bitch, Mrs R Cardo from Kingswinford, Mrs G Holmes from Princes Risborough
Kath, 06.06.13, L, Bitch, Ms D Collins from Telford, Mr E Blundell from Clacton-on-Sea
Kurt, 25.09.13, GSD, Stud, Mrs J Evans from Bromsgrove, Mrs S Buckland from Colchester
Layla, 30.07.13, GR, Bitch, Mrs EA Morris from Tamworth, Mr J Wright from Bridport
Lisa, 07.06.13, GR, Bitch, Mrs EA Morris from Tamworth, Miss G Saunders from Dartford
Maisie, 30.07.13, GR, Bitch, Mrs M Court from Halesowen, Mrs EG Gilbert from Banchory
Maple, 12.06.13, GR, Bitch, Mrs P Kimmins from Birmingham, Mr & Mrs P Willis from Arbroath
Marie, 07.06.13, GR, Bitch, Mrs M Court from Halesowen, Mr MH Hoskins from Prenton
Maya, 15.08.13, L, Bitch, Mr P Revill from Southam, Mr A Kemp from Glasgow
Pip, 30.07.13, GR, Bitch, Mrs R Cardo from Kingswinford, Mrs MP Prow from Newton Abbot
Todd, 12.06.13, L, Stud, Mr & Mrs Wood from Leicester, Mr G Horton from Dundee
Verity, 30.07.13, L, Bitch, Outside Bred, Donated Dog
Willow, 12.06.13, L, Bitch, Ms D Collins from Telford, Mr D Rees from Swansea
Yana, 13.09.13, L, Bitch, Mrs S Hoffman from Coventry, Mrs H Mander-Callaby from Royston
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