Forward magazine spring 2016
Transcription
Forward magazine spring 2016
Forward The official Guide Dogs magazine Spring 2016 Meet the inspirational winners. Guide Dogs Annual Awards 2015 Decades of dedication. A combined 100 years of puppy walking Romance rekindled. Childhood sweethearts and a dog named Todd Also inside: The impact of sight loss on mental health TV personality pup Clover The guide dog who inspired an artist Join today and enjoy all these VIP only benefits... • Exclusive VIP savings and offers • FREE My VIP Magazine • Exclusive 10% off welcome voucher* • Raise lifelines for less fortunate pets Sign up in-store or online at petsathome.com/vip *Terms and conditions apply, see in-store for details. Helping to make a better world for the dogs who make a better world for people Guide Dogs Annual awards advert.indd 13 04/01/2016 13:52:48 Contents 17 Regulars 5. Welcome from our CEO 6. News Stories from across Guide Dogs 9. Guide Dogs in the media special Featuring Clover, star of ITV’s This Morning Features 10 25. What’s on? Guide Dogs’ diary 34. Caption competition What’s our pup saying? 11 People and dogs 20. Thank you to our supporters 14 16 Making dreams come true Changing lives with gifts in Wills 11 Stella – a model guide dog Introducing artist Emelye Purser 17 Dogs of the world unite! Our amazing global sponsored dog walk 12 A day in the life… …NAP visit co-ordinator Jennifer Barber 17 Brent’s Bark Guide dog pup Zebedee meets Ricky Gervais 13 A romance rekindled A love story spanning five decades 18 Guide Dogs Annual Awards 2015 And the winners are… 14 On the campaign trail Update on Guide Dogs’ latest campaigns 22. We’ll never forget 25. In memory 26. New partnerships 34. Your letters 10 Taking gifts to Belarus Meet a guide dog owner on a mission 15 15 Decades of dedication 100 years of puppy walking! 8460 Please recycle this magazine 18 Forward Magazine | Spring 2016 3 Name a Puppy What will you call yours? A name is the first gift that a guide dog puppy receives. The Name a Puppy scheme gives you the chance to become part of their life changing story. To say thank you, we will provide a beautiful photograph and a series of ‘Pupdates’ detailing the pups progress, and subject to sponsorship level, we will also make sure you get to meet the pup you have named too! For more information email: nameapuppy@guidedogs.org.uk call: 0118 983 0190 or visit: guidedogs.org.uk/nameapuppy Contributors: Tracey Gurr, Melissa Gerbaldi, Lucy Llewelyn, Kitsy Kinane, Niall Foley, Joe Bullimore, Annabel Williams, Emma Hockenhull, Rachel Kitchin, Stacey Wilson, Lorraine Joseph, Chris Rose. Designed by: Guide Dogs guidedogs.org.uk Contributions: Send items to Forward at the Head Office address or email forward@ guidedogs.org.uk Unfortunately, due to the sheer volume of ideas we receive, we cannot acknowledge every item. We reserve the right to edit or refuse. Forward is available in Braille, large print, audio CD and online as audio and text files. It is also available as a PDF from our website and in a range of languages – for this and mailing enquiries call 0870 240 6993*. You are receiving this copy of Forward magazine as one of our valuable supporters. If you no longer wish to receive it please contact us, call 0870 240 6993* or email forward@guidedogs.org.uk Founding Editor: The late Captain Nikolai Liakhoff MBE FRZS Full colour advertising is available in Forward. For information on rates, publication dates and circulation, please call 0118 983 8295 or email forwardadvertising@ guidedogs.org.uk. Terms and conditions apply. Any products or services Registered Head Office: advertised in Forward by third The Guide Dogs for the parties are not in any way Blind Association, Hillfields, endorsed by Guide Dogs Burghfield Common, Reading and Guide Dogs shall not be RG7 3YG responsible for the accuracy Tel: 0118 983 5555 of any information contained Fax: 0118 983 5433 in such advertisements nor www.guidedogs.org.uk has it investigated or verified Email: info@guidedogs.org.uk any of the information. © 2010 Registered charity in *Calls cost 1p per minute plus your telephone company’s access charge 4 England and Wales (209617) and in Scotland (SC038979) Forward Magazine | Spring 2016 Welcome Chief Executive’s welcome for everyone with sight loss, and that when someone loses their sight we’re here to help them get back on their feet. There’s a special feature on Clover on page 9. Welcome to the Spring edition of Forward. One of the key values of the Guide Dogs charity is that we are passionate and determined. That determination expresses itself in many different ways and we saw some magnificent examples of it at the Guide Dogs Annual Awards in December: our cover star is Elaine MacKenzie, winner of our Inspirational Guide Dog Owner Award. A tireless campaigner for the charity, Elaine didn’t even let an attack on her guide dog, Una, stand in her way – read more about her and our other winners on page 18. Talking of winners, Clover the guide dog pup is still winning the hearts of everyone she meets on ITV’s This Morning. Clover, her puppy walker, Emma, and training supervisor, Jay, are giving us a unique opportunity to tell millions of viewers about our life-changing work, getting across the message that we’re here our goals, no matter what challenges come our way. In 2016 we aim to support even more people with sight loss to get out and about on their own terms. We’ll need all the passion and determination we can muster, but with all of you on board, I’m confident we’ll continue to go from strength to strength. When she finishes her training, Clover will join the thousands of guide dogs who transform the lives of people with sight loss. I’m very proud to say that, through our different services, we supported Best wishes more than 10,000 people in 2015, giving them the means to live life as they Richard Leaman choose and step out into the world again. You can read more about our fantastic achievements in our forthcoming Impact Report. Another amazing achievement is that, despite major challenges, we are continuing to bring in the crucial funds we need for our work. Over the last year, charities have been scrutinised and criticised as never before and we’ve been working extremely hard to ensure our organisation is in a good position to meet new challenges head-on and that we make the most of every penny donated. We couldn’t possibly do this without you and I am very grateful that we have so many incredibly dedicated supporters. Your loyalty, hard work and enthusiasm help keep us focused on Forward Magazine | Spring 2016 5 News significant symptoms of depression when screened, currently just two of the 639 low vision services in Britain screen people for depression. It also shows that almost three-quarters of those who screened positive for depressive symptoms were not being treated for their depression. Guide Dogs research reveals impact of sight loss on mental health In January we released results from our three-year research trial into the link between sight loss and depression. In the first study of its kind, we revealed that an astounding 43% of people with sight loss face developing depression – among the highest prevalence of any health condition or disability. We worked with researchers from Cardiff University to screen over 1,100 people attending low vision clinics where psychological screenings are not currently available. Our research revealed that, although 43% of those living with sight loss displayed The research clearly shows that this issue needs to be taken more seriously and psychological screenings and treatment need to be integrated into low vision services. Chris Glover, from Crewe, (pictured with his wife Joanne and guide dog Stokes) joined our Head of Strategy and Research, Jenny Cook, at BBC Broadcasting House for several radio interviews on the subject. Chris told BBC Radio 4 In Touch presenter, Peter White: “When I lost my sight I was very vulnerable and low. Nobody asked how I was feeling, or how my family was feeling. It was all about the practicality rather than the emotional impact. I ended up having a breakdown before I was able to ask for help.” A second phase of research is now planned to determine how psychological support should be made available. reflecting their views, raising concerns and being active in their local mobility teams. The MTSUR conference in Teignmouth, Devon last autumn was a great success, welcoming several new representatives. Chief Executive Richard Leaman updated reps on key developments within Guide Dogs and there was a lively question and answer session. Raising your voice Guide Dogs’ Mobility Team Service User Reps (MTSURs) play a vital role in the charity. They represent our service users across the UK, 6 Forward Magazine | Spring 2016 Many MTSURs are also involved in national projects, such as Friends of Guide Dogs and campaigning work. Their insights are invaluable in helping us review and improve our services. For more information about MTSURs, please contact your local Guide Dogs mobility team. News A place to ‘go’ in Birmingham Guide dogs and other assistance dogs finally have a place to relieve themselves now Network Rail has built a spend area in Birmingham’s New Street Station redevelopment. It means assistance dogs travelling through the city can make themselves comfortable and concentrate on their owners’ needs. Big Lottery – huge difference Guide Dogs Northern Ireland will benefit from £700k of Big Lottery funding for a fiveyear partnership project between Guide Dogs, Blind Children UK, Angel Eyes and Sense. The project will see family-focused habilitation support centred around local groups in each of the Health and Social Care Trusts. (‘Habilitation’ is the process of helping children with a visual impairment achieve as much independence as possible). Esther Small, mum of Victoria aged two, said: “It’s fantastic that this new project will help more families in a similar situation to us. I know these charities have been an invaluable source of advice and support to us over the last 18 months and Victoria has also benefited greatly from this early intervention, which is so crucial for visually impaired children.” Community Engagement Officer Sue Bushell said: “Locals and visitors have been raising the issue for years and the spend area will make a big difference to them (and their dogs!).” Guide Dogs Local Volunteer Awards 2016 – who will you nominate? New for 2016, these awards celebrate our volunteers’ fabulous contribution to Guide Dogs. The awards will be held in locations across the UK in June. There’ll be six awards, based on Guide Dogs’ values: entered into Guide Dogs’ national People Awards. Got someone in mind? Make your nomination here: guidedogs.org.uk/ localawards – it couldn’t be simpler. Nominations close on Friday 9 April 2016. ¬¬ Customer focused ¬¬ Inclusive and embracing ¬¬ Passionate and determined ¬¬ Dedicated to superior quality ¬¬ Trustworthy ¬¬ Maximising impact The winners of the local awards will be those who’ve demonstrated one of these values most clearly in their work with Guide Dogs. They’ll then be Forward Magazine | Spring 2016 7 News Paving the way to success A delivery of tactile paving from Cardiff Council and their suppliers, Visul Systems, may seem quite ordinary, but for the team at Guide Dogs Cymru it was first class. This paving will enable them to mock up a number of scenarios, so the people they support with sight loss can become familiar with their footsteps and gain confidence when out and about. Guide Dogs Cymru Engagement Officer Nathan Foy and his guide dog Mason. Otis moves from left to right It’s not often that guide dogs are trained to work on their owner’s right hand side; still less often trained to work on the left and then retrained to work on the right. However, that’s exactly what happened with Otis when his owner, Brian Walters, lost the use of his left hand. Thanks to the hard work of the trainers at the Shrewsbury Mobility Team, the partnership between Brian and Otis is stronger than ever. Isaac sets Welsh wheels in motion Guide Dogs Cymru is celebrating the qualification of its first dog for a wheelchair user. Isaac’s star potential was spotted at just nine months and his puppy walking training was adapted to include picking up items dropped on the floor. He was trained by the Cardiff team in collaboration with Dogs for Good, enabling him both to guide and perform task work. 8 Forward Magazine | Spring 2016 News in brief A Defender for Guide Dogs Jaguar Land Rover’s manufacturing plant in Solihull has donated a new Land Rover Defender to Guide Dogs, complete with Guide Dogs artwork. It will be used for publicity as well as more general transport. The plant already co-sponsors two puppies, Jag and Landy. Molly’s a hospital hit Guide dog Molly has become an instant hit among staff at the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital as they take her for walks around the hospital grounds while her owner, Rosemary Bethall, undergoes treatment. “Molly’s just adorable,” said Ward Matron Debbie Millington. A double celebration Trevor Maltby celebrates two half centenaries this year: 50 years as a guide dog owner – he’s now with his seventh dog, Veda; and 50 years of marriage to his wife Hazel, also a guide dog owner. Our warmest congratulations. Our youngest speaker? Lani, from Cardiff, is only six but she’s already an expert on guide dogs! She gave a presentation to classmates at Birchgrove Primary School, complete with photos of guide dogs, and handed out stickers, bookmarks and leaflets. Guide Dogs in the media Guide Dogs in the media As the star of the show, Clover regularly rubs shoulders with high-profile guests, including the Duchess of Cornwall, Prime Minister David Cameron, Jamie Oliver and Nicole Scherzinger. She’s visited the set of Coronation Street, where she met cast extra Annie Giles-Quinn and her guide dog, Mr Quin, and accompanied This Morning presenter Alison Hammond to the Animal Hero Awards. Winning hearts and minds Young guide dog puppy Clover joined the team of ITV’s This Morning last September. Since then not only have viewers and guests on the popular show fallen in love with her, she’s also proving to be a great ambassador for Guide Dogs. It’s not just Clover who’s getting the attention: guide dog owner and recent graduate Emily Davison was interviewed on the sofa about how her guide dog Unity is helping her achieve her goals – giving viewers a better understanding of the challenges of living with sight loss. The show has also featured our access campaign, with interviews and a story about a guide dog owner who was refused access to a supermarket. Clover has become a hit on social media with thousands of followers. Please share, like or follow her Facebook and Twitter accounts with your friends and family to boost her followers even further! @TMClover facebook.com/ThisMorningClover This Morning is following the first year of Clover’s life, giving us a unique opportunity to showcase the hard work that goes into training our guide dogs. Viewers can follow every step of her progress, with Clover and her puppy walker Emma appearing on the programme two or three times each week. Clover is a bright and confident pup; she’s learnt all the basic commands and she’s making great headway. With the help of presenters Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield, viewers were able to watch Clover and some four-legged friends in action when we held two puppy classes at the studio. Annie Giles-Quinn with her guide dog Mr Quin and Clover. Forward Magazine | Spring 2016 9 Guide Dogs in the media Other media highlights A myth-busting story marked the official launch of last year’s Guide Dogs Week. Focused on people’s misconceptions of what guide dogs do, it featured in the Daily Mirror and Metro newspapers and on their websites. Guide Dogs Week also provided the platform for our moving neon artwork video, which told the story of guide dog owner Becky. It was covered in national media including Sky News, The Independent, The Sun and Yahoo! News online. The video also proved popular on social media, attracting more than 225,000 views. The Times’ Animal Life supplement featured our access campaign and carried an obituary for fundraiser Scott Cunningham’s former guide dog, Travis. Photos of adorable guide dog puppies at our National Breeding Centre featured in the Daily Mail, both in print and online, in The Times and on ITV News online in September. The story marked the start of the new school year, highlighting that the pups were beginning their journey towards becoming life-changing guide dogs. Taking gifts to Belarus Guide dog owner Pat Alexander doesn’t just volunteer for Guide Dogs. The Samaritans Purse ‘Operation Christmas Child’ appeal is also a cause close to her heart. Last year, it took her on an unforgettable trip to Belarus. The charity’s mission in Belarus was to distribute hundreds of shoe boxes filled with Christmas presents (including scarves and hats knitted by Pat) to disadvantaged children. She says: “The children were so grateful. It was an amazing but very humbling experience.” Pat has been a guide dog owner since 1991 and each of her six dogs has made a huge difference to her – enabling her to move when her job relocated, travel to a training day with Samaritans Purse, and go into a local school to help children read. She couldn’t take her guide dog to Belarus but she says: “Normally I wouldn’t go anywhere without my guide dog. When I give talks to children, I explain that confidence is spelt g-u-i-d-e-d-o-g!” 10 Forward Magazine | Spring 2016 A model guide dog Stella – a model guide dog Eight years ago, with her sight deteriorating, Emelye Purser was struggling to get around. After being knocked down by a car when out with her young son, she applied for a guide dog. Since then, not only has labrador Stella changed Emelye’s life completely, she’s also inspired Emelye to take up painting again. Stella has made a huge difference to the family’s life. So much so that Emelye and her husband felt able to have two more children. Emelye says: “Stella walked with all of them and the buggy and was never fazed at all. She took care of all of us.” Emelye has a hereditary condition that meant she lost her vision. She’s also extremely light sensitive. Through her right eye she can only see shadows and movement but a recent corneal graft operation on her left eye has given her a small window of sight. Having always been artistic, this miracle motivated her to return to painting for pleasure. “With new determination, I started painting again,” she says. “I looked at Stella – she has beautiful black eyes against a yellow coat. I sat right next to her to see her – she loves to pose for me.” paint. When she can, she says: “It gives me a huge sense of achievement.” She believes it’s important to paint what she sees. “Even if it’s distorted,” she says, “I want people to understand what it’s like and see what I can see. The detail may not be perfect but I can capture the character of dogs and people.” Emelye’s sensory art uses touch and smell. She explains: “For example, if you crush petals on paper, you get amazing effects. It’s tactile which I love; the smell is great – it’s quite mind-blowing for someone with sight loss.” Emelye’s vision varies a lot so she can’t always To see more of Emelye’s art, visit facebook.com/emelyepurservia and Instagram.com/emeleyepurservia Forward Magazine | Spring 2016 11 Day in the life A day in the life of… Name a Puppy visit co-ordinator Jennifer Barber Our supporters can make a real difference to the life of someone with sight loss by joining our Name a Puppy scheme. In return for a specific level of donation, supporters follow the journey of their named puppy. A real highlight is the chance to meet the puppy. It’s volunteer Jennifer’s role to organise those meetings and, on the day, to make sure the donor, puppy walker and puppy enjoy the best possible experience. Meeting two puppies named Toby “We had a lovely pet dog called Toby, so it was a natural choice to name our guide dog puppy Toby. We receive regular updates about his progress and when we met him, we fell in love immediately! The person with sight loss who gets Toby will be very lucky and we’ll be so delighted to give someone a new life.” Christopher and Sylvia The role combines Jennifer’s previous experience as a puppy walker and her career in events, her interest in meeting people and love of variety, “it’s just right for me,” she says, “I love it!” Over eight years Jennifer has organised 70 puppy visits. Before each one she speaks to the puppy walker to help put them at ease, gets to know the puppy and liaises with the donor (who could be an individual, a school, pub or business, among others) to arrange a suitable venue. “Meeting Toby and his puppy walker was an incredible experience and to know that my support will change the life of someone who is blind or partially sighted makes me so proud.” Terry Once the initial introductions are done, “I stand back and enjoy it,” Jennifer says. “They’re there to meet, I’m there to support.” The best part, she says, “is seeing the pleasure the donor gets from meeting the puppy and how much the puppy walker enjoys ‘showing off’ their puppy.” The Name a Puppy scheme gives you the chance to connect with Guide Dogs in a really special way. For a minimum donation of £5,000 or £10,000, you get to name and meet the puppy and receive regular updates on its journey to becoming a life-changing guide dog. To find out more, call Alison Parker on 0118 983 8737 or email alison.parker@guidedogs.org.uk 12 Forward Magazine | Spring 2016 Snapshot features Getting back to nature After meeting at a conference, My Guide Ambassador Rosalind Wallace and Julia Duncan from The Conservation Volunteers (TCV) Scotland vowed to make the outdoors more accessible to people with sight loss. My Guide training was given to volunteers and staff at TCV Scotland and their partner organisations, and Julia organised days with National Trust Scotland for My Guide partnerships and guide dog owners to learn about the environment. They have also taken an active part in conservation work. Julia said: “When we started running these sessions, they told us they found them empowering. It’s great to make that difference to someone’s life.” Colin Gallagher, Head of Mobility Services in Edinburgh, said: “What TCV Scotland have done is brilliant – they’ve created some really enriching experiences. Our My Guide service is all about getting people with sight loss out and about in our communities. TCV Scotland has helped us fulfil that ambition”. dated for three months then went their separate ways, married other people and had families. A romance rekindled While life kept childhood sweethearts Pat and Dennis Wilson apart for decades, fate had a way of bringing them back together. Pat and Dennis met as students at the Royal Blind School in Edinburgh. They In 1999, having returned to Edinburgh after a decade in London, Pat met Dennis for the first time in 30 years, when she volunteered to help Dennis with a mailshot for his RNIB Scotland fundraising job. Then Pat’s husband passed away suddenly, while Dennis and his wife separated. Dennis and Pat started to rekindle their romance, and in 2012, five decades after holding hands in the playground, the couple said “I do.” “Our friends and family joke that our love story is very Mills and Boon. Life wanted us to be together, we just My Guide service user Freda Steel at a National Trust Scotland day didn’t know it,” said Dennis. A special guest at their wedding was Pat’s guide dog, Todd. Upon developing hearing loss, Dennis considered applying for a guide dog again. That’s when the couple approached Guide Dogs with a unique request. “We talked with our Guide Dog Mobility Instructor about training Todd to support both of us,” explains Dennis. “We proceeded with a plan very carefully. It was important not to overwork Todd. But he relished the challenge, and there’s no question about who is the named driver! Pat gets first choice, and I will use my long cane. Todd and I are just part of the pack!” Forward Magazine | Spring 2016 13 Guide Dogs campaigns On the campaign trail… Guide Dogs’ campaigns have been going from strength to strength over the last few months with lots of exciting developments in several of our key campaigns. Back in November we celebrated Transport Minister Andrew Jones’ birthday with the help of over 1,200 campaigners, who sent the Minister a birthday card. The Minister was delighted with his cards and told us he is very supportive of Guide Dogs’ work. Pavement Parking The meeting was a great chance to discuss our campaign on pavement parking, which in December entered Parliament again for the second reading of the Pavement Parking Bill. Although the bill did not progress any further the Government were convinced enough by our arguments to fund their own enquiry into the problem of pavement parking, which is a huge step forward for the campaign. Access All Areas Talking Buses People from all over the country will be joining us in Westminster to speak to their MP directly about the issue of assistance dog owners being refused access to goods and services because they have their dog with them. We handed in our Big 5 Petition to the five biggest bus companies in Great Britain – Stagecoach, First, National Express, Go-Ahead and Arriva. With a grand total of 29,531 signatures it was definitely enough to make them sit up and listen. Bus company First has now piloted Talking Bus technology in Leeds and we are working with the other bus companies. We’ll also be handing in the Access Petition. You can find a paper version of it with this magazine. Please do share it with friends and family and gather as many signatures as possible to show the Government how important this issue is to guide dog owners. We are also gearing up for the Buses Bill, the biggest piece of bus legislation for 10 years, and will try to make sure that Talking Buses gets a mention in any upcoming changes. Can you see the problem? Guide dog owners Nathan Foy and Hilary Lester worked with Gwent Police on a short video entitled ‘Can you see the problem?’ It highlighted the problem of pavement parking and was shown in the local cinema prior to each film screening. Sign up for campaign updates at guidedogs.org.uk/signup 14 Forward Magazine | Spring 2016 100 years of puppy walking Decades of dedication Guide Dogs’ puppy walkers play a vital role in our dogs’ early lives, helping ensure they’re well-behaved, friendly, responsive and at ease in different environments. Meet Jackie Scragg and Doris and Fred Milligan, who between them have devoted an astonishing 100 years to puppy walking. guard’s van of the train on its own to travel to Exeter for the next stage of its training! Jackie is one of our first ever puppy walkers. Amazingly, she responded to an advert in 1956, the year Guide Dogs introduced the scheme as a way to improve the chances of puppies succeeding as guide dogs. There was no staff supervision and after puppy walking her first puppy, she had to put it in the Summarising her experience of walking 30 puppies Jackie says: “Dogs are wonderful companions.” While much has changed about puppy walking, Jackie’s motivation over 60 years remains the same. “It’s heart breaking to see the puppy go but I know they’re going to make a difference,” she says, “and make someone terribly happy.” She talks of the pride she feels when she sees one of her young pups transformed into a responsible guide dog. Doris and Fred started puppy walking in 1974 when their children were at home. Doris says: “We love dogs and love helping people, so it was a marvellous thing to do for people with sight loss.” Only now, 46 puppies later, are they hanging up their leads. They’re very proud that their last puppy, Marie, is their third one to become a brood bitch (a guide dog ‘mum’). A lot has changed since they started, particularly the much busier environment guide dogs have to cope with. That’s reflected in the work Doris and Fred have to do to ensure the puppies are relaxed and confident in all situations. Doris says: “It’s been a wonderful experience and I wouldn’t have missed it for anything. Give it a try – we couldn’t stop once we started!” If you’re interested in becoming a puppy walker, we have opportunities in various locations across the UK. To find out more, visit guidedogs.org.uk or call 0118 983 8789 Forward Magazine | Spring 2016 15 Transforming lives Making dreams come true The charity Guide Dogs is part of the National Free Wills Network scheme which offers people aged 55 or older the chance to have their Will written or amended for free through a local solicitor throughout the month of March. Guide Dogs takes part in this scheme because gifts left in Wills are so important to us: in fact, two out of three guide dogs are funded in this way, and although there is no obligation to leave a gift, we’re extremely grateful when people do. Leaving a gift helps train more guide dogs like John. John was named through a gift in a Will and was actually puppy walked by a member of Guide Dogs staff, so the whole team saw him grow up. It 16 Forward Magazine | Spring 2016 was a sad day for them when he went off to training school, but he was a star pupil, and they were so proud when he was matched to new owner Len. When Len’s sight started deteriorating he contacted Guide Dogs for support. Soon after expressing an interest in having a guide dog, Len was partnered with John. “When I met John, all my dreams came true”, says Len. “He has enabled me to do the simplest of things on my own, things we all take for granted, like a visit to the shops or the bank. He has given me back my independence.” If you’d like to support us in this way and use the free Will writing service to look after what’s important to you, simply visit guidedogs.org.uk/freewillsmonth or call 0345 686 4309. You will need to contact the solicitor during the month of March, although the actual appointment can take place after that deadline. Transforming lives Dogs of the world unite! Something incredible is happening on 17 April 2016. Dogs Unite will join forces with Blind Foundation New Zealand and Guide Dogs Victoria, Australia to host an international sponsored walk: Global Dogs Unite! This fantastic fun day out for family and friends will celebrate the wonderful job guide dogs do all over the world. We’ll be hosting our UK Global Dogs Unite event at Dinton Pastures Country Park, Reading, Berkshire. As well as a Dogs Unite sponsored walk, there’ll be global-themed activities, fun challenges for you and your dog, and a guide dog demonstration – plus the park’s inclusive children’s playground will guarantee a fun-filled day out for all! Can’t make our Dinton Pastures event? Don’t worry! We’re encouraging heroes across the UK to take the lead and do their own global walk at a time and place to suit them on 17 April. All participants will receive their own special Global Hero pack, so register today at dogsunite.org.uk/myglobal Brent’s Bark Staff from the Communications Team and puppy walker Lynda Graham were lucky enough to take golden retriever guide dog puppy Zebedee on the set of Ricky Gervais’ new film at the end of last year. The film ‘Life On The Road,’ due for release in August, follows the character David Brent in the years following ‘The Office’. A Guide Dogs collection box features in the film, which prompted the invitation for the team to visit. Puppy Zebedee soon became the star of the show as he walked on set to the delight of the cast and crew and a very smiley Ricky Gervais. Having met everyone, Zebedee posed for some photos, which later appeared on Ricky Gervais’ Facebook and Twitter accounts under #BrentsBark, where he said it was his “favourite set visit ever”. The posts received thousands of likes and shares and hundreds of comments for Guide Dogs. The crew also joined in by posting photos of themselves with soft toy guide dog puppies! Forward Magazine | Spring 2016 17 Guide Dogs Annual Awards 2015 The London Hilton on Park Lane saw many inspirational people gather to celebrate the 2015 Guide Dogs Annual Awards. The venue went back to the golden age of the 1920s for the ultimate in style for the worthy winners. The host, comedian and writer Dave Spikey of Phoenix Nights fame, warmed the audience with a comedy routine before reducing many to tears with the unforgettable stories behind the awards. And the winners were… Inspirational Guide Dog Owner Award, in partnership with Royal Canin – Elaine MacKenzie Decided by public vote, this award is for a guide dog owner who has achieved something exceptional and Elaine certainly fits the bill. Having given at least 200 talks about Guide Dogs’ work over the years, Elaine has devoted much of her time to the charity as a campaigner, information officer and Guide Dogs Scotland ambassador. The retired civil servant also turned the horror of an attack on her beloved guide dog Una into a way to help the charity by sharing her experience with politicians and the media. Guide Dog of the Year Award – Beyond the Call of Duty – Nicky Askew and Tillie Nicky believes she owes her life – and her family’s lives – to yellow labrador retriever Tillie. Guide dog Tillie alerted the family to a fire downstairs while they were upstairs getting ready for bed. When Nicky went downstairs and sprang into action with her husband to put the fire out, Tillie was still at her side encouraging Nicky to get to a safe place. Guide Dog of the Year Award – Life Changing – Lynette Proctor and Pippa Having endured years of bullying at school, Lynette achieved top results and went onto study English literature and fine art at university. Just one year into the course, Lynette felt defeated by her deteriorating sight loss, dropped out of university and became isolated and depressed. Being partnered with Pippa in 2013 changed her life forever, giving her freedom and independence. 18 Forward Magazine | Spring 2016 Guide Dogs Annual Awards 2015 Lynette returned to college, has a full-time job and embraces daredevil fundraising activities such as scuba diving with sharks. My Guide Partnership Award – Nathan Edge and Pete Jones Hall When guide dog owner Nathan decided to take on the challenge of running the London Marathon after coming to terms with losing his remaining vision overnight at 19, he won the bonus prize of a beautiful friendship with his guide runner, Pete. Nathan and Pete were one of the first sighted guiding running partnerships made through My Guide and have proved to be such a good match that they are planning to run the 2016 London Marathon to raise funds for Guide Dogs. Young Persons Achievement Award, in association with Blind Children UK – Tiri Hughes Being registered partially sighted at age seven hasn’t stopped Tiri achieving her goals be they ever so high. In 2015 Tiri was not only awarded 11 GCSEs; she also gained a place on the GB Women’s Disability Gymnastics Squad, winning gold medals in her age group and category in both the British Disability and Welsh Open Gymnastics Championships. Tiri is continuing her education at the Royal National College for the Blind in Hereford, taking A’ levels in maths, chemistry, biology and psychology. Collaboration of the Year Award – Chief Inspector Nathan Clark Having helped a guide dog owner overcome the effect of a terrifying dog attack, Nathan was well placed to revolutionise the way his officers handle reports of dog attacks on guide dogs, setting a “gold standard” for other forces across the UK. Nathan put an action plan in place, including having specially-trained officers who know how to deal with dog attacks on guide dogs and wider awareness training for all officers in Norfolk, so they know just how devastating attacks on guide dogs are. Breaking Down Barriers Award – Mary Rasmussen and Nelson When Mary was almost knocked down by a lorry in Aberdeen City Centre because the council had changed the road layout, she was determined to resolve it for the sake of others with sight loss. Mary canvassed the council to add features such as tactile paving so that people with sight loss can navigate the busy spot safely. We are very grateful to all our sponsors, especially our headline sponsor, Royal Canin, as well as our other sponsors Specsavers, Ricoh, Proximity and MC&C, who helped make the evening such a great success. Special thanks to our guests who took part in the fundraising activities on the night, helping us raise thousands of pounds for our life-changing work. We’ll be back with a bang for another glittering night of achievements in May 2017; details will be confirmed nearer the date. Forward Magazine | Spring 2016 19 Our supporters Thanks to our supporters If it’s one thing our fundraisers have by the bucket-load, it’s stamina. You demonstrate that in so many ways: running marathons, walking for miles, swimming in icy seas – but also by supporting Guide Dogs with such loyalty, year in and year out. Like Martin and Mavis Brennan who’ve been fundraising for an incredible 40 years, and Easingwold fundraising group – a tiny group that’s raised a colossal amount of money. Of course, we warmly welcome all fundraisers, whether they’ve been with us for decades or are just doing a oneoff event – I just wanted to express my admiration for those of you who can teach the rest of us a thing or two about staying power! Director of Fundraising and Marketing Brave swimmers joined Snorkel the dog for the annual New Year’s Day Dip in Swansea Bay and raised £1,800. It’s become an important fixture in Swansea’s festive calendar and fancy dress is very much encouraged. Congratulations to guide dog owners Martin and Mavis Brennan, who celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary last September and more than 40 years of fundraising. Luke Jackson and Para Patel completed the Dorney Lake Triathlon and raised over £1,900. David Mathias ran a triathlon as part of NFU’s fundraising and raised £362. 20 Forward Magazine | Spring 2016 Easingwold is a small village near York with a fundraising branch of just four to six volunteers. As older age approaches, they’re now stepping down but over the last 27 years, they have raised an amazing £250,000. Their dedication is inspirational. The year seven children at St Hild’s Church of England School have decided to support Guide Dogs over the next five years. They have already raised £104 to sponsor a puppy and £651 from a ‘let’s glow’ dress-inneon day. Our supporters Inhabitants of Corwen, North Wales, completed a walk in memory of Simpson, the first guide dog to live in the town. His owner, Mike Webster, received the cheque at a special presentation and said their generosity ‘touched his heart’. Staff at the Arnold branch of Lloyds bank raised £320 through a collection and raffle. Staff at Mabey Bridge, a company that designs and manufactures modular bridges, have raised enough to name a guide dog puppy Mabey. They gave him a warm welcome when he came to visit their offices with his puppy walker. Volunteers from Leeds and district branch took over Otley’s Buttercross to sell homemade produce and other items and raised £802. Tessa Kirkwood held her annual coffee morning in Cambridge and raised £1,400. 34 volunteers from Plymouth branch raised more than £1,400 at their annual flag day in August. Guide dog owner Angela Fearn bravely took to the skies and completed a tandem skydive, raising more than £1,500. Whittlesford Social Club held a race night and presented a cheque for £1,000 to guide dog owner Malcolm Copper and puppy walker Dee Bevan. Forward Magazine | Spring 2016 21 Canine obituaries 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. We’ll never forget Alice 22.8.04 – 18.9.15 Guide dog to Sylvia Beese. You brought so much love and joy to everyone you met and we all miss you so much. God bless. Amos 20.1.06 – 17.8.15 Faithful guide and companion to James Lynes. Gave unconditional love to so many. You placed a paw mark on so many people’s hearts. Andy 9.2.01 – 31.8.15 Puppy walked by Doreen and Archie. Did not become a guide dog and remained our much loved boy and loyal companion. Forever in our hearts. Aston 26.3.05 – 19.9.15 Following very sudden terminal illness, sadly died. We held her close to us Andy at the end and are so devastated. God bless you Treasure! minds running free. Andy, Helen, Alice, Holly, Granny. Brock 13.7.03 – 17.9.15 God took his paw, we had to part. It eased his pain but broke my heart. Rest in peace, Bryan Maindonald. Erica 25.12.00 – 24.10.15 Beautiful and loving guide to Claire for many years and retired to Carol and Ian. Sadly missed. Brought happiness to all who met her. Clyde 23.3.06 – 20.8.15 Died extremely suddenly. Simply the best and sadly missed. Crispin 2.1.04 – 19.7.14 Retired to Sarah Davy. A marvellous dog who lit up all our lives. Such a soul mate. Thank you for all the years he spent with us. Emma 16.5.03 – 14.12.15 For our beloved Emma Acton-Royle. We will never forget you. You will always be in our hearts and Aston 22 Forward Magazine | Spring 2016 Ezra 13.6.10 – 10.11.15 Ezra was my first companion, he will be hard to follow. Taken too soon by cancer. I will miss him deeply. Loved by all, Dale. Faldo 20.3.04 – 14.11.15 Thank you my old friend, you changed so many lives. In schools the children folded their arms, you crossed your paws, and everyone said “awh”. Hooch Gemma 9.5.02 – 14.8.15 Guide to Lee Taylor. Thank you for being my eyes and ears. Retired to Eileen and Roy Taylor. Special girl, we all miss you. Hooch 8.4.00 – 8.9.15 Retired early to puppy walker. Ten fun years. Loved by all eight grandchildren. Happy until the end. Missed by all. Julia and Wayne Marshall. X Hudson 21.6.01 – 25.9.15 Rehomed to June and Roy Scott. Much loved by us all. Mentor to many guide dog puppies. Running free again. Hudson Canine obituaries Jan Jemma Kelly J’dee Jan 28.10.01 – 15.10.15 Faithful guide to the late Patricia Lewsley. Retired to Pat’s partner Paul Nicks. A gentle soul, loved by all who knew her. Rest in peace. Maureen Clark. A great ambassador. Run free my Kellybelly, love and miss you so much. Nushka 24.5.02 – 18.7.15 Guide to Phil Jarvis and retired to Bill and Daphne Glover. We all miss you very much, little lady. her and she them. Keep swimming my Pearly-Girl. Robin 25.6.01 – 9.9.15 A much loved guide Mickey 13.2.09 to Gillian Deane – 20.10.15 and retired to Judith Fourth guide to Bryan his puppy walker. Rigg and a marvellous Oatey 6.11.01 – 13.8.15 Greatly missed. J’dee 4.6.07 – 30.9.15 ambassador for Retired early Night night Bobs. The most adorable, Guide Dogs. Thank but continued loving, faithful, loyal you and God bless as wonderful Royston 20.5.04 guiding partner to Mickey, so sadly ambassador for – 3.12.15 the last golden beat missed by everyone. Guide Dogs. Such a Thanks for the of his heart, that character. Loved so pleasure to share has left paw prints Nell 23.1.04 – 11.12.15 much and missed by with you Roy, your in all our hearts. Nell, first guide to all who knew him. life journey. Always Jackie Clark, kept playful, always Jemma 26.3.02 by her and Martin Pascoe 28.5.02 – 5.9.15 hungry, always – 7.9.15 in her retirement. Guide to Bob Morley, pleased to greet. Puppy walkers Brenda Good night, God retired due to injury A great friend, and Peter. Adopted bless my darling girl. aged eight to Ann sadly missed. by Frances and Alan Forever in our hearts. Robbens. Much loved after being withdrawn by all who knew him. Sage 13.10.03 – 11.9.15 from training. A Nicki 14.3.00 Faithful guide to true gem. We’ll – 13.10.15 Pearl 27.5.05 – 31.10.15 Trevor Maltby. Puppy love and miss you Retired brood bitch, Retired to Muriel walked by Ruth forever sweetheart. mother of 39 pups. Pounder. True Oliver and family. Put Calm, gentle and friend. Precious, peacefully to sleep. Kelly 25.9.05 – 25.9.15 happy to the end. Endearing, Adorable, God bless you Sage, Guide to Cherie Privileged to share Remarkable, we’ll never forget you. Hodgson. Retired her life for 14 years. Loveable. The whole early to puppy walker She will be missed. village welcomed Nicki Nushka Oatey Pascoe Forward Magazine | Spring 2016 23 Canine obituaries Pearl Teasel 10.4.02 – 9.11.15 ‘Loaned’ to Alison May as her guide dog. Retired back home to Marilyn and John Thompson. Our ‘Weasel’ and her licks will be sorely missed. Valdez 30.6.08 – 12.11.15 Rehomed to Christine Hartley. He loved humans and dogs alike and had many friends. His short life was filled with fun. Sadly missed. Vickie Royston Vickie 30.10.99 – 22.11.15 Puppy walked prior to working in Edinburgh then returned to us on retirement. A lady of character who will be sadly missed. Walker 11.6.05 – 30.4.15 Faithful guide to Sue Rothery. Puppy walked by Sandra Brand. Guided one, lived with a few, loved and sadly missed by many. Teasel Wanda 15.5.00 – 16.11.15 My perfect companion. We shared fourteen incredible years. I miss you desperately Waggy Princess. Run free now and play all day sweet angel. God bless. Wheeler 5.10.01 – 6.10.15 Retired to Alan, Lorna and Nicola Bailey. Fundraiser par excellence, a gentle giant and true star. Missed Valdez beyond measure. Run free big boy. Wilma 1.9.00 – 3.7.15 Wonderful guide to Ellie, long and happy retirement with Gail. Much loved by both. Run free beautiful girl. See you again at the rainbow bridge. Wyn 7.11.03 – 23.9.15 First guide to Nicola Croft. Loved by all who knew her. Sleep well my lovely Wyn. I’ll never forget you. Love and hugs from Nicky, Rae and Dennis. Walker Need tax advice? Guide Dogs works closely with other charities which have similar aims, including RNIB. Did you know that RNIB has a tax advice team? They support people with sight loss across the UK with tax-related issues. The service, supported by HM Revenue 24 Forward Magazine | Spring 2016 and Customs (HMRC), provides help to individuals with claiming tax allowances such as the Blind Person’s Allowance and the Marriage Allowance, queries related to income tax, tax on savings interest, VAT relief and help with tax credits issues. They can help people resolve tax problems through their good contacts in HMRC. To get in touch with the team, call 0345 330 4897 or 0151 702 5721, email tax@rnib.org.uk or visit rnib.org.uk/tax What’s on? Redbridge Fun Day 7 May, 11.00–16.00 Join us for a 30th birthday celebration at the Redbridge Guide Dog Training School, Woodford Green. With dog demonstrations, craft stalls, refreshments and a children’s area, it will be a great day of fun for the whole family. For more information, call 0845 372 7421*. Yorkshire 100K 18-19 June Walk, jog or run 100K along the Pennine Way. Registration fee is £50 with a fundraising target of £250. In memory Bill Logan It is with deep sadness we announce the sudden death of Bill Logan on 18 October 2015. Bill worked mainly as a Guide Dog Mobility Instructor in Forfar and Inverness and made an immeasurable professional and personal contribution to Guide Dogs. Our thoughts are with Bill’s wife, Fetna, and their family and friends. Prudential Ride London to Surrey 100 31 July We’re delighted to be part of this iconic cycling event. Take on this 100-mile challenge through the streets of London and across the hills of Surrey. Cross the finish line and get a hero’s welcome. Registration is £49. Great North Run 11 September Challenge yourself and take on the UK’s biggest half marathon. It’s flat, friendly and a great challenge! Registration is £20. To find out more and to sign up for these events, call 0845 600 6787*, email events@guidedogs.org.uk or visit guidedogs.org.uk/ events *Calls cost 3p per minute plus your telephone company’s access charge Nan Phillips It is with sadness that South Wales puppy walkers say farewell to Nan Phillips, who passed away on 12 April 2015. She walked 11 puppies, as well as boarding guide dogs and fundraising. She will be missed by all. Josephine (JoJo) Downer We are sad to report the death of JoJo Downer on 30 October 2015. Born blind, she became a guide dog owner in 1967 and had six guide dogs, all of whom gave her immense pleasure as well as independence. She worked tirelessly as a fundraiser and speaker and will be treasured and loved forevermore. Betty Harmer Llanelli and district branch regret to announce the death of Betty Harmer on 26 September 2015. She joined the branch after becoming a guide dog owner and brought her lifelong experience of fundraising (she was a retired major with the Salvation Army) to us. She will be very much missed. Forward Magazine | Spring 2016 25 New partnerships Congratulations to our new partnerships 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 Colin Best & Twiglet from Ballynahinch GSD, Lena Reid from Newtownabbey, Orrlene McMillen from Bangor * Nicola Williams from Shrewsbury David Bingham & Morris from Newtownabbey GRxL, Vicky Paterson from Glasgow, Geoffrey Seaman from Dunblane * Helen Daw from Bedford Hazel Flannigan & Kelty from Armagh L, Grace Brock from Dunfermline, Colin Tremble from Dunfermline * Jackie Ellison from Coventry Gemma Holmes & Waffle from Limavady LxGR, Derek & Margaret Hyslop from Dunfermline * Ingrid Moss from Warwick Paul Hunt & Yeoman from Belfast LxGR, Andrew Hopes from Cupar * Jane Innes from Stourbridge Pat Hutchinson & Spice from Newtownards LxGR, John & Margaret Ure from Carnoustie * Judith Adlington from Coventry Geraldine McNicholl & Questa from Coleraine GRxGR, Yvonne Madden from Glasgow * Erica Dowse from Coventry Arlene Miller & Yazz from Limavady L, Daphne Barfoot from Belfast * Caroline & Michael Evason from Warwick Maralyn Judith Boxall & Lily from Winscombe GRxL, Gail Lawson from Leamington Spa * Susan Bennett from Southam Peter O’Kane & Emily from Armagh LxGR, Betty Brown from Melrose * Janie Macqueen from Fenny Compton Tony Breach & Dudley from Birmingham GRxL, Margaret Tasker from Rugby * Katherine Knight from Rugby John Strange & Seymour from Carrickfergus LxGR, Sally McCaffrey from Strathaven, Jacqueline Atkinson from Linlithgow, Jimmy & Anne Kelly from Alloa * Ingrid Moss from Warwick Rosie Chandler & Sally from Little Witley LxGR, Sonia Baxter from Crook * Lisa Hall from Redditch Birmingham Andrew Bailey & Eaton from Hereford GRxL, Belinda Hunter from Leeds * Yvonne Edwards from Cradley Heath Zoe Bates & Lucky from Sutton Coldfield GRxL, Diane Godfrey from Holcombe * Susan Bennett from Southam Anna Binns & Emily from Birmingham L, Andy & Karen Lavis from Bristol * Eve Smith from Tanworth In Arden Keith Currie & Pax from Birmingham L, Richard Elcoat from Ticknall * Janet Ball from Stourbridge Nina Davis & Katy from Birmingham GRxL, Julie Greaves from Leicester * Jessica Macgregor from Warmington Suzanne Eaton & Flossy from Hereford LxL, Colin & Jenny Edwards from Warwick * Claire Aluko from Northampton David Elsmore & Oreo from Lichfield GRxL, Judith Lowe from Stourbridge * Sian Evans from Rugby Lee Greatbatch & Jimmy from Worcester GRxL, Elizabeth Lovatt from Leeds * Beth Julian from Leicester Dennis Holman & Sparkey from Worcester GRxL, Clair Davies from Cardiff, Patricia Williams from Abertillery * Marion Vernall from Ledbury Stephen Keith & Vince from Birmingham GSD, Ester Naylor from Halesowen, Keith Lyon from Walsall * Rosemary Jackson from Leamington Spa Justin May & Usef from Kidderminster LxGR, Bosiljka Despinic-Jovetic from Solihull * John Rogers from Bromsgrove Ann Nicholls & Gromet from Fairford GRxL, Jillian Ann McDonald from South Shields * Nicola Greensill from Wolverhampton Jason Payne & Pedro from Hereford GRxL, Elaine Bishop from Bromsgrove * Jeanette Hannon from Oldbury Stephanie Sergeant & Megan from Birmingham L, Pauline Ellis from Kineton * Julia Maxwell from Kenilworth Jennie Walsh & Gracie from Plymouth L, Ian & Avril Wonnacott from Okehampton * Catherine Parker from Telford The photos on these pages are illustrative only; they do not correspond to listed partnerships. 26 Forward Magazine | Spring 2016 New partnerships Cardiff Nicola Roseanne Cockburn & James from Cardiff L, Jacqueline Mundell Perkins from Oxford * Barbara Wilkinson from Pershore Don Collins & Yarna from Caerphilly LxGR, Linda Richardson from Newcastle Upon Tyne * Jane Innes from Stourbridge Julie Richards & Tracey from Llanelli L, Hilary Reed from Westbury * Darrin Grocock from Lutterworth Alex Sansome & Jasper from Caernarfon GRxL, Myra Lee from Sutton Coldfield * Jane Field from Warwick Lesley Sayers & Flynn from Neath LxGR, Sarah Nagy from Milton Keynes * Sally Barsby from Buckingham Ann Earlam & Quanta from Nr Chester GRxGR, Mandy Price from Kidderminster * Erica Dowse from Coventry Peter Timperley & Tex from Ammanford GSD, Vikki Holt from Redditch * Nicola Williams from Shrewsbury Jill Goodwin & Fifi from Blackwood LxL, Bland from Burnley * Claire Aluko from Northampton Anthony Tyrer & Norton from Llandudno LxGR, Janet & John Young from Derby * Ian Hendry from Birmingham June Goulding & Daisy from Caldicot L, Catherine Onions from Nottingham, Garth Munton from Derby * Fiona Steed from Droitwich Elaine Greenhill & Isaac from Ebbw Vale GRxL, Cicely Smith from Bristol * Dianne Merker from Malvern Michael Hall & Zebedee from Abergele GSD, Moya Jones from Stourport-onSevern, Carole Tavender from Rugby * Mandy Matkin from Cannock Malcolm Hughes & Ashby from Abergele L, Gillian Chard from Penarth * Sian Simmons from Kenilworth Christine Stabe & Cherelle from Cardigan GRxL Central Midlands from Shrewsbury * Lisa Hall from Redditch Gail Margaret Hammond & Gemma from Kettering GRxL, Shirley Smith from Kingsbury Episcopi * Louise Stephenson from Warwick Kerry Pearce & Vanya from Studley GRxL, Susan Rhodes from Coventry * Janet Paget from Rugby James King & Kimber from Milton Keynes L, Tracey Brunsdon-Jones from Tewkesbury, Margaret Lee from Tewkesbury * Szymon Janik from Kenilworth Beverley Muldoon & Grecco from Leamington Spa GRxGSD, Elizabeth Bullimore from Pontypool David Neal & Danny from Worcester L, Sharon Allen from Stonehouse, Jackie Horton from StratfordUpon-Avon * Darrin Grocock from Lutterworth Alison Banham & Elmo from Stafford L, Amy Smith from Warwick * Darrin Grocock from Lutterworth Juli Nicholson & Grace from Leicester GRxL, Carol Kimberley from Hinckley * Louise Stephenson from Warwick David Beardwood & Ursula from Coventry GRxL, Kathryn Bennett from Mountain Ash * Ginny Turner from Leicester Sarah Oattes & Cracker from Tamworth LxGR, Julie Lee from Hartlepool, Stan Millward from Darlington * Joan Raxter from Redditch Robert Beck & Fitz from Leamington Spa LxL, Sheila Towler from Todmorden * Claire Aluko from Northampton Claire Palmer & Wendy from Coventry L, Hazel Pape from Banbury, Barr & Ann Breckenridge from Solihull * Robert Jones from Rushden Margaret Mansell & Jazz from Pontypool GRxL, Jacquie Wilson from Sale * Beth Julian from Leicester Sarahjane Commarford & Tessa from Farnborough GSD, Tony Murray from Kenilworth * Andrew London from Hereford Laura Price & Grace from Pontypridd GRxGSD, Liz Truman from Taunton, Mandy Cunningham from Warwick Pauline Cooper & Vinnie from Wellingborough GRxL, Janet Heaps from Kidderminster * Janet Paget from Rugby William Green & Scooby from Tamworth LxGR, Andrew Theresa Jeffs Stephen Parnell & Eddie from Brackley GRxL, John & Beryl Hope from Gloucester * Amanda Hilton from Shipston-on-Stour David Priest & Monty from Hinckley GRxL, Isabel Laskey from Scarborough * Helen Daw from Bedford Pauline Rose & Meadow from Craven Arms LxGR, Leslie & Melvene Johnson from Redditch * Sally Elliott from Olney Bob Sime & Topper from Coventry GSD, Elaine Whiteley from Solihull * Nicola Williams from Shrewsbury Matthew Smith & Urwin from Nuneaton GRxL, Wendy Lilley from Torquay * Ginny Turner from Leicester Andrew Stringer & May from Northampton LxL, Malcolm & Sandra Davies from Barry, Ben & Yve Strawson from Cwmbran * Claire Aluko from Northampton Veronica Taylor & Rio from Atherstone GRxL, Joanna Hellard from Bridgwater * Jill GordonLennox from Worcester David Tinkler & Vann from Kettering GRxFCR, Freda Gabriel from Tewkesbury * Alison Jordan from Stafford Anthony Williams & Sam from Leicester LxGR, Roger & Eileen Trethewey from Torquay * Lisa Hall from Redditch Richard Wilson & Zaffa from Leicester L, Graeme Williams from Leicester * Samantha Hanley from Telford Lorna Patrick & Smithy from Northampton GR, Patricia Stansbie from Coventry * Emily Aram from Derby Forward Magazine | Spring 2016 27 New partnerships Sheila Wiltshire & Emmie from Birmingham L, Janet Boswell from Llantwit Major * Darrin Grocock from Lutterworth Edinburgh Carol Dodd & Quincey from Perth LxGR, Patricia Rae from Carnoustie * Christine Fowler from Southam Alexander Elliot & Chester from Edinburgh L, Gordon Henderson from Edinburgh * Robert Asker from Coventry Helen Main & Geordie from Cupar GRxL, Andrea Clark from Kinross, George & Elizabeth Paterson from Inverkeithing, Eilidh Rattray from Crossgates * Jane Roberts from Wellesbourne William McBride & Stanley from Glenrothes GRxL, Margaret Gibson from Ballater * Sarah Stanley from Rugby Monica McGill & Sadie from Linlithgow GRxL, Catherine Reid from Strathaven * Anthony Stobart from Solihull Alison Small & Quigley from Dundee GRxGR, Aileen Murphy from Dunfermline * Erica Dowse from Coventry Alistair Winton & Newton from Hartlepool GRxL, Debbie Williamson from Glasgow, Janey Hamilton from Glasgow * Glennis Snape from Birmingham Exeter Carole Brown & Nellie from Tiverton LxGR, Stephanie Brighton from Upminster * Sally Barsby from Buckingham Jessica Elliott & Thistle from Radstock GSD, Andrea Eaton from Clevedon * Nicola Williams from Shrewsbury Andrew Flowers & Bill from Bristol LxGR, Jane Swift from Stourbridge * Sylvia Burgess from Buckingham Christopher Lee & Tucker from Paignton L, Helen Sansome from Solihull * Emma Watson from Leamington Spa Elizabeth Lynes & Mister from Saltash L, Christine Brown from Leigh-on-Sea Joy Morris & Yazmin from Illfracombe STPxL, Robert Stafford from Ottery St Mary * Annette Smith from Swadlincote Steven Moseley & Toffee from Bristol L, Hedley Austen from Clevedon, Janet Colley from Bristol * Jill Wassell from Warwick Pauline Ann Partridge & Julie from Penryn L, Wendy Lewin from Malvern * Barbara Wilkinson from Pershore Jan Peters & Celia from Bristol LxGR, Kath Kelly from Tamworth * Jane Walters from Leicester Stephanie Read & Rusty from Torquay COLxGR, Richard Bailey from Southampton * Regina Cardo from Kingswinford Janet Reading & Fudge from Bristol GRxL, Sheila Morris from Bromsgrove * Jayne Hallam from Walsall Douglas Robertson & Bear from Liskeard GSD, Janet Steyn from Plymouth * Rosemary Jackson from Leamington Spa Elsie Rosson & George from Perranporth GRxL, Lorna Boyde from Bangor * Danielle Vaughan from Wigston Marion Searle & Maddy from Newton Abbot L, Valerie Lurcock from Newton Abbot * Lindsey Watts from Coventry Jason Sheppard & Mistral from Bristol GRxL, Lesley Burchnall from Lutterworth * Sue Walters from Stourbridge Tony Webb & Ranger from Bude GRxL, Barry Maltby from Solihull * Jill GordonLennox from Worcester Ian White & Jimmy from Paignton STPxL, Bob & June Owen from Solihull * Sue Price from Claverdon Glasgow Robert Blackwood & Jasper from Irvine GRxL, Diane Hare from Dalkeith * Glennis Snape from Birmingham Sandy Bryce & Archie from Dunfermline GRxL, Jacqui Gormley from Ballyclare * Janet Klaar from Stourbridge Neil Gay & Zooby from Lochgilphead LxGR, Douglas Walker from Ardrossan * Tracy Twomey from Leamington Spa Sheena Holt & Nancy from Ayr GRxL, Alexander & Jackie Weir from Lauder * Jacki Hauenstein from Telford Jo Long & Freddie from Inverness GRxGSD, John & Val Zimny from Dundee * Kathleen Brooks from Wellesbourne Sinead McFarlane & Quest from Tain, Ross-Shire GRxL, Carol McDonald from Edinburgh * Lesley Reddy from Warwick Elisabeth Molloy & Eric from Glasgow LxGR, Gordon & Fay Simpson from Forfar * Janie Macqueen from Fenny Compton Linda Mooney & Josh from Glasgow GRxL, Allison Durbidge from Arbroath * Beth Julian from Leicester Elizabeth Stirling & Honour from Aviemore L, Christine Henderson from Chester Le Street 28 Forward Magazine | Spring 2016 New partnerships Darren Tambin & Yvie from Durham GRxL, Susan Irwin from Donaghadee * Glennis Snape from Birmingham Hull Jennifer Bembridge & Hilda from Boston GRxGR, Jean Ruff from Redcar * Erica Dowse from Coventry Lauren Bibby & Magic from Hull L, Margaret Mattingly from Morecambe * Rhiannon Hutchings from Snitterfield Keith Boddy & Dalby from Lincoln GSD, Stacey Dawn Roberts from Mansfield * Mr & Mrs Tindall from Coventry Tyrone Corcoran & Zak from Lincoln GSD, Reverend Barbara Holbrook from Nottingham * Mandy Matkin from Cannock Brian Harrison & Hunter from Louth LxGR, Joan Hoenich from Newcastle Upon Tyne * Tracy Twomey from Leamington Spa Lee Jones & Mario from Cleethorpes L, Carolyne Jones from Sale * Rhiannon Hutchings from Snitterfield Susan Pallister & Quinn from Hull GRxL, Barbara Ann Mead-Mason from Poulton-le-Fylde * Lesley Reddy from Warwick Bob Pearson & Jeff from Hull GRxL, Philip Bowers from Stoke-onTrent * Karen Robbens from Leamington Spa Sarah Rogers & Katie from Horncastle L, David Walker from Stockport * David Yarwood from Birmingham Judy Shaw & Ike from York L, Pat Moran from Halifax, Kay Kelly from Stockport * Eve Smith from Tanworth In Arden Leeds Sophie Courtney & Jumble from Leeds L, Ann Price from Chester, P Hill from Bolton * Sheila Higgins from Milton Keynes Roger Elgood & Rexel from Saltburn-By-TheSea GSD, Mr & Mrs Clarke from Winsford * Rosemary Jackson from Leamington Spa Margaret Firth & Venus from Leeds GRxL, Stephen Collins from Chester Le Street * Elizabeth Crabtree from Blockley Rachel Hanks & Sheba from Brighouse L, Sheila Etchells from Macclesfield * Claire Green from Southam Cheryl Hill & Joker from Barton-Upon-Humber GRxL, Maria Kinney from Liverpool * Beth Julian from Leicester Stan Lovell & Casper from Scarborough L, Norma Karen Harrison & David Normandale from Malton * Robert Asker from Coventry Steven Robinson & Guss from Sowerby Bridge GRxL, Margaret Black from Mold * Louise Stephenson from Warwick Paul Sharp & Peter from Leeds GR, Linda Webb from Stafford * Pam Kimmins from Birmingham Keren Stubley & Dolly from Lincoln GR, Bea Gray from Carluke, Julie & Steven Wilson from Glasgow Liverpool Jacqui Brewer & George from Warrington LxGR, Sharron Marie Burns from Wallasey * Linda Langman from Milton Keynes Marie Brookfield & Whispa from Southport LxGR, Norman Frank Feely from Wirral * Ingrid Moss from Warwick Louise Cannon & Harmony from Liverpool GSD, Sandra Holmes from Woolton * Cora Blaver from Northampton Lynn Collins & Holly from Greasby GRxGSD, Pauline Hickey from Mancot * Siobhan Haney from Coventry Claire Farrell & Tia from Chester L, Valerie Shawcross from Buckley * Jackie Ellison from Coventry Dawn Gerrard & Helena from Runcorn L, Frank Williams from Poultonle-Fylde, Claire Domville from Timperley Jayne Gould & Poppy from Liverpool GRxL, Colin Howells from Malpas * Jane Field from Warwick Lesley Hunt & Veda from Liverpool L, Peter Fearnhead from Wirral * Alison Ashley from Daventry Sam Proctor & Royce from Congleton L, Alison Cooke from Wirral * Sarah Brettell from Stratford-Upon-Avon Gillian Walters & Sammy from Wirral L, June Collins from Northwich * Alison Ashley from Daventry Jessica Watson & Jingle from Wilmslow L, Elaine Brennan from Liverpool * Lorna Morgan from Birmingham London J Kara Ayres & Jaydee from Northampton GRxL, Lynne Knapp from Huntingdon * Wood from Leicester Carol Abram & Shirley from Staines-UponThames GRxGR, Lyn Stubbs from Ely * Erica Dowse from Coventry Colin Audus & Cole from Whitstable LxGR, Annie Leith from Berkhamsted * Linda Langman from Milton Keynes Duncan Clarke & Digger from New Malden L, Heather Lowe from Bolton Doctor Nick Clarke & Eva from Holmfirth L, Sara Dixon from London * Darrin Grocock from Lutterworth Paul Clayton & Nola from London GSD, Niccola Meekings from London * Philip Plant from Leamington Spa Michelle Craig & Dexter from Watford GSD, Clive Seeley from Bury St Edmunds * Mr & Mrs Tindall from Coventry Christine Dolyak & May from London L, Leyla Redman from Chelmsford * Lindsey Watts from Coventry Jennifer Eshalomi & Beau from London L, Angela Welford from Crowborough * Szymon Janik from Kenilworth Jean Emily Gant & Iris from Luton LxGR, Angela & Paul James from Chelmsford * Joyce Bartlett from Rugby Lauren Jackson & Umber from Orpington GRxL, Jackie Ralph from Uckfield * Ginny Turner from Leicester Beverley Leigh & Velda from London GRxFCR, Forward Magazine | Spring 2016 29 New partnerships Tracey Bishop from Chelmsford * Alison Jordan from Stafford Jo-Ann Moran & Ike from London L, Pat Tuffs from Dartford * Sarah Mitchell from Stratford-Upon-Avon Barry Moulds & Lester from Grimsby LxL, Anne Gallagher from Keighley, Jack Roper from Rochdale * Gordon Macrae from Over Norton Robert Murthwaite & Eamon from London L, Estelle Susans from Bromley * Darrin Grocock from Lutterworth Tony Sheeran & Crystal from London LxGR, Elizabeth Lamb from Walton On The Naze * Joan Raxter from Redditch Harry Dackombe & Jolly from Herne Bay LxGR, Kim Stacey from Billericay * Kathryn Bayliss from Walsall Valerie Upchurch & Stanley from Bexleyheath GRxL, Malcolm Moore from Sidcup * Ginny Turner from Leicester Derek Dawkins & Dax from Sevenoaks GRxL, Sue Hudson from High Wycombe * Jane Knifton from Leamington Spa Robert Andrew Wise & Hooch from London GSD, Roy Brown from Hemel Hempstead * Cora Blaver from Northampton Annette Hawkins & Robbie from Peacehaven GRxL, Phillip & Jean Wellby from Leighton Buzzard * Philip Swallow from Warwick Maidstone Karen Parker & Suzi from Mitcham L, Elizabeth Carr from Maidstone * Dawn Collins from Telford Tracey Jennings & Margie from Redhill L, Carol Haynes from Worthing * Tricia Ducker from Blisworth Amit Patel & Kika from London L, Lucy Cole from Swindon, Andrea Capewell from Newbury * Szymon Janik from Kenilworth Cyril Thomas & Falcon from Brighton L, Kirstie Boyce from Bishop’s Stortford * Andrew Starr from Rugby Elspeth Pearce & Fergus from Feltham GRxL, Lynda Petit from Wallingford * Jayne Hallam from Walsall Annette Bearsby & Freddie from Tonbridge GRxGSD, Jackie Day from St Albans * Ruth Smith from Warwick Katherine Ramo & Cora from London LxGR, Linda Masher from Sidcup * Joan Raxter from Redditch Ellen Bratby & Maisie from Sevenoaks GRxL, Karen Bateman from Huntingdon * Catherine Gray from Brackley Mike Robinson & Harry from Chichester GRxL, Sarah Robson from Ware * Sue Walters from Stourbridge David Chandler & Gordon from Maidstone LxGR, Joan Smith from Malmesbury * Helen Cookes from Nuneaton Julie O’Brien & Emily from Polegate L, Jesse & Cath Powis from Chelmsford * Linda Morris from Stratford-Upon-Avon Jessica Read & Millie from Tonbridge GRxL, Norma & Terence Dumbrell from Longfield * Lorraine Harrison from Kidderminster Christopher Smith & Rex from Seaford LxL, Cath Goulborn from Otley * April Williamson from Stratford-Upon-Avon Lisa Squirrel & Star from Folkestone LxGR, Helen Nelson from Sevenoaks * Lisa Hall from Redditch Christo Thiardt & Tug from Canterbury GSD, Paul & Deborah Welch from Ashford * Trudy Evans from Coventry Manchester Valerii Tolkach & Hartley from Blackpool LxGR, Maureen Martin from Sheffield * Jane Plant from Solihull Sarah Bayley & Babs from Preston L, Jean Greenway Cole from Buxton * Catherine Parker from Telford Michelle Chadwick & Zena from Manchester GSD, Maria Thorburn from Glasgow * Mandy Matkin from Cannock Lynne Cooper & Nigel from York LxGR, Heather Reid from Perth, Robert & Doreen Beattie from Stirling * Carolyn Minty from Cheltenham Anthony Finn & Yoda from Lancaster LxGR, Pamela Jeffery from Derby, Wendy Gingell from Ilkeston, Graham & Mary Moorcroft from Derby * Jane Innes from Stourbridge Jeanette Fyfe & Otto from Sale LxL, John & Wendy Raisbeck from Saltburn-By-The-Sea * Anne Baulch from Rugby Jack Glaister & Darcy from Stockport GRxL, Fishwick from Burnley * Jane Knifton from Leamington Spa Nikki Helme & Lois from Preston LxGR, Jennifer Higgins from Nottingham * Kathryn Bayliss from Walsall Gillian Holland & Jeeves from Oldham GRxL, Farrelly from Leeds * Beth Julian from Leicester Katie Humphreys & Queenie from Warrington LxGR, Hilary Percival from Warrington * Mary Edwards from Warwick Aisha Hussain & Pearl from Cheadle GR, Christina 30 Forward Magazine | Spring 2016 New partnerships Moverley from York * Pam Kimmins from Birmingham Richard Stevens & Charlie from Chorley L, Fiona Trimble from Nottingham * Robert Asker from Coventry Mike Urry & Rex from Stockport L, Mike Barwick from Durham * Rhiannon Hutchings from Snitterfield Graham Ward & Redfern from Fleetwood LxGR, Jean Barber from Thornton-Cleveleys * John Rogers from Bromsgrove Newcastle Michael Buchan & Jolly from Greenside STPxL, John & Gus Davidson from Lockerbie * Sue Price from Claverdon Laura Craig & Simba from Hartlepool GRxL, Gary Dixon from Wigan, Karin Quarrie from Warrington * Anthony Stobart from Solihull Jane Dobbin & Ernie from Newton Aycliffe LxGR, Stuart Donaldson from Cupar * Janie Macqueen from Fenny Compton Charlie Eastwood & Prince from Hartlepool GSD, Robert & Vera Gordon from Aberdeen * Mandy Matkin from Cannock Alexandra Mackie & Neena from Durham GRxL, Lorna Money from Glasgow * Lucy Savage from Chipping Norton Jack McGrath & Murray from Crook GRxL, Bea Gray from Carluke, Victoria Macready from Glasgow * Helen Daw from Bedford David Russell & Hamish from Sunderland LxGR, Hugh & Jane Begg from Dundee * Hazel Cross from Evesham David Scoon & Warwick from Sunderland LxGR, Fiona McWhirter from Kirkcaldy * Ingrid Moss from Warwick Suzanne Todd & Zea from Barnard Castle LxGR, Daniel McKeeman from Dunfermline * Tracy Twomey from Leamington Spa George Wilson & Odelle from Durham GR, Rachel Discombe from Aberdeen * Christine Fowler from Southam Nottingham Claire Bland & Iris from Sheffield L, Joanne Martin from Derby * Eve Smith from Tanworth In Arden Caroline Bowman & Captain from Nottingham LxGR, Wendy Jackson from Bury * Joan Raxter from Redditch Jeremy Brooks & Yoko from Nottingham LxGR, Margaret & Edward Docherty from Stirling * Jane Innes from Stourbridge Wayne Brunson & Braddy from Nottingham LxGR, Elaine Haywood from Burnley, Vincent Joseph Thorpe from Wakefield * Jackie Evans from Droitwich Huw Davies & Hunter from Barnsley L, Kathleen Booth from Burntwood, Lizz Johnson from Leeds, Vincent Joseph Thorpe from Wakefield * Eve Smith from Tanworth In Arden Edward Gray & Junior from Barnsley GRxL, Sharon Forshaw from Warrington * John Lovett from Telford Michele Hazelhurst & Oakley from Worksop GRxL, Bertha Morral from Belper * Trudy Bond from Wellesbourne Victor Lusha & Nutmeg from Barnsley GRxL, Doctor Claire Doidge from Sheffield * Jacki Hauenstein from Telford Ray Shacklock & Ludo from Sutton-in-Ashfield GRxL, Sue Thornhill from Nottingham * Emma Watson from Leamington Spa Sue Walker & Elvis from Buxton LxGR, Alan Turnbull from Peterlee * Janie Macqueen from Fenny Compton Hazel White & Quilla from Newark GRxL, Andrew Caldwell from Bolton * Sarah Mann from Cheltenham Malcolm Woodrow & Andrew from Doncaster LxGR, Sylvia Thomson from Bridge Of Don * Joan Raxter from Redditch Peterborough Rebecca Atkinson & Ruby from Norwich LxGR, Verity Smith from Ipswich * Sharon Cranston from Daventry Ruby Blyth-Smith & Ziggy from Norwich L, Pat & Les Bird from Dagenham * Samantha Hanley from Telford Angela Bull & Rambo from Dereham L, Sally Ayling & Mr Oly Higgs from London * Robert Jones from Rushden Clare Burman & Saffron from Ipswich GRxL, Jacqueline & Neil Liberty from Benfleet * Dianne Merker from Malvern Jad Elbourn & Dennis from Cambridge GRxL, Rosemary Parker from Rochford * Katherine Knight from Rugby Russell Hart & Vargo from Sudbury GSD, Julia McClellan from Leatherhead * Rosemary Jackson from Leamington Spa David Hornett & Prince from Cambridge GRxL, Joanne Rodgers from Benfleet * Jeanette Hannon from Oldbury Victor Hunt & Carling from North Walsham GRxL, Helen Winsome Kilpatrick from Belfast * Jean Midson from Northampton Avril Johnson & Fabian from Norwich STPxL, Wendy Hartwell from Braintree * Annette Smith from Swadlincote Robert Johnson & Cally from Lowestoft LxGR, Lorna Fryer from Ashford * Joan Raxter from Redditch David Kelly & Oscar from Great Yarmouth LxL, Lucy Emsden from Warwick * Anne Baulch from Rugby Geraldine McKeag & Quinta from Bury St. Edmunds LxGR, Jack & Tricia Morris from Swanley * Mary Edwards from Warwick Caroline Pryke & Ulay from Halesworth GRxL, Emma Evanson from Chelmsford * Lorraine Harrison from Kidderminster Corin Sargent & George from Bury St. Edmunds GRxL, Sandra Emsley from Southam * Louise Stephenson from Warwick Kenneth Smith & Barnie from Lowestoft GR, Jan Caulfield from Halstead * Stuart Toulson from Bridgnorth Sarah Terrill & Uska from Huntingdon GRxL, Joan & Richard Chamberlain from Romford * Ginny Turner from Leicester Forward Magazine | Spring 2016 31 New partnerships Ryan Woods & Duke from Great Yarmouth GRxL, Carolyn Buckley from Gloucester * Jessica Macgregor from Warmington Reading Ian Allaway & Anna from Farnham GRxL, Donald Baker from Sevenoaks * Philip Swallow from Warwick Christopher French & Farley from Banbury LxL, Sandra March from Maldon * Claire Aluko from Northampton Hazel Greatorex & Gismo from Crowthorne LxGR, Sarah Connolly from Witham * Sally Elliott from Olney Michael Gurney & Tess from Milton Keynes GSD, Linda Bonnar from Cirencester * Nicola Williams from Shrewsbury Elsie Hambrook & Lara from Aylesbury GRxL, Ann & Tony Ridler from Luton * Susan Bennett from Southam Janet Jones & Goldie from Bourne End GRxL, Joanne Hudson from Chelmsford * Louise Stephenson from Warwick Natalie Jones & Sidney from Oxford L, Pat Walsh from Colchester * Mr & Mrs Phipps from Lechlade Christopher Mustchin & Kenton from Bognor Regis GRxL, Penny Gillespie from Letchworth Garden City * Ann Hubble from Birmingham Amanda Pike & Fable from Southampton LxL, Sheila Bleach from Worthing * Claire Aluko from Northampton Angela Ridley & Leo from Burgess Hill GRxL, Diana Holmes from Tonbridge * Jude Jennison from Shipston-on-Stour Liz Roe & Rosie from Milton Keynes LxL, Elizabeth Hooley from Welwyn Garden City * Anne Baulch from Rugby Shrewsbury Southampton Darren Clutton & Quincey from Shrewsbury L, Maureen Martin from Sheffield * Jason Webb from Birmingham Danny Barker & Felix from Southampton LxL, Martin & Sandra Elliott from Ilford * Claire Aluko from Northampton Carol Crackle & Kasper from Wolverhampton L, Dean Thomas from Telford * David Yarwood from Birmingham Royston Kenneth Cox & Harley from Westbury GSD, Carol Edwards from Bedworth * Cora Blaver from Northampton Julie Diskin & Oona from Stoke-on-Trent GR, Diana & Clarence Treweek from Leeds * Christine Fowler from Southam Leslie Fowler & Wag from Basingstoke LxGR, Carole Truman from Bolton * Ingrid Moss from Warwick Susan Fletcher & Hudson from Telford GRxL, Kerry Barlow from Merriott * Sue Walters from Stourbridge Jane Wigley & Paula from Shoreham-BySea L, Rachel Spillane from Newbury * Phipps from Lechlade Butch David Freeman & Uska from Burton-on-Trent L, Patricia Joyce from Abingdon * Jeanette Hannon from Oldbury Fiona Williams & Fletcher from Headington GRxL, Diana Clarke from Swindon * Ginny Turner from Leicester Hermine Hodson & Merlin from Lichfield GRxGSD, Stacey Dawn Roberts from Mansfield * Sue Herman from Warwick Carol Abram & Shirley from Staines-UponThames GRxGR, Lyn Stubbs from Ely * Erica Dowse from Coventry Linda Robinson & Hannah from Newport GRxL, John Balderson from Keighley * Susan Barford from Southam Mike Robinson & Harry from Chichester GRxL, Sarah Robson from Ware * Sue Walters from Stourbridge Rajinder Singh & Yannis from Wolverhampton LxGR, Philippa Skinner from Wirral * Alison Morton from Leamington Spa Joanne Tomson & Venus from Newcastle LxGR, Keith & Mary Dodd from Bristol, Angela Smith from Bristol * Gill Moss from Banbury Ken Whitcombe & Barton from Telford L, Janice Lancaster from Manchester * Lucy Savage from Chipping Norton Paul Oakley-Cleife & Gilly from Portsmouth L, Carol Weatherley from Beckenham * Catherine Parker from Telford Jennifer Parker & Otto from Eastleigh LxGR, Anna Green from Chelmsford * Sally Elliott from Olney David Shockley & Freddie from Calne LxL, Elizabeth Millard from Coventry * Claire Aluko from Northampton Suzanne West & Darcy from Broadstone L, Elizabeth Ellis Churchill from Leeds, Margaret Kenworthy from Holmfirth * Fiona Steed from Droitwich Welwyn Garden City Jade Brothwell & Herbie from Spalding GRxL, Loraine Baker from Colchester * Sue Walters from Stourbridge Louise Carter & Spedan from Harlow LxL, Gill Maynard from Southampton * Anne Baulch from Rugby Angela Cotton & Jess from Potters Bar L, Philippa Bushe from London * Barbara Wilkinson from Pershore Barbara Hunt & Trudy from Colchester L, 32 Forward Magazine | Spring 2016 New partnerships Cleo Jennings from Luton * Jackie Ellison from Coventry Joan Jewell & Uri from London LxGR, Sue Langdon from Longfield * John Rogers from Bromsgrove Christine Mason & Nelson from Watford STPxL, Lynda Graham from Harpenden * Annette Smith from Swadlincote Mark Pivac & Hero from Saffron Walden GSD, Paula Guy from Sittingbourne, Daniel & Katherine O’Donoghue from Gillingham * Cora Blaver from Northampton Eileen Wild & Sandy from Dunstable GRxFCR, Geof & Patricia Twite from Chelmsford * John Rogers from Bromsgrove Ken Woodward & Parky from Colchester L, Toni & Adrian Voller from Godalming * Barbara Wilkinson from Pershore Could you be a brood bitch holder? We are always looking for more volunteer brood bitch holders, who look after our guide dog ‘mums’ in their own homes. You need to live within an hour’s drive of our National Breeding Centre, near Leamington, not work more than four hours per day, have a secure garden, and be able to transport the guide dog mum to and from the centre. For more information, please call 0845 372 7432* or email bshenquiries@guidedogs.org.uk *Calls cost 3p per minute plus your telephone company’s access charge Breeding Stock Archie * 08.07.15 * GSD * Stud * Mr P Meadows from Lutterworth * Mrs J Scott from Newton Abbot Hebe * 11.08.15 * L * Bitch * Mrs J Paget from Rugby * Mr DM Manley from Bradford Orla * 10.09.15 * GSD * Bitch * Mr & Mrs Tindall from Coventry * Mrs K Ramos from Warwick Darcy * 08.07.15 * L * Bitch * Miss J Baines from Burton-on-Trent * Mrs J Dixson-Smith from Kenley Helen * 08.07.15 * L * Bitch * Mrs J Brinkworth from Nuneaton * Mrs C Farmer from Kenilworth Ruby * 08.07.15 * L * Bitch * Mrs J Paget from Rugby * Ms H Reaper from Livingston Domino * 22.10.15 * GR * Stud * Mr P Maycock from Bromsgrove * Mrs K WroeBrown from Colchester * Mr & Mrs B Croucher from South Ockendon Hilly * 26.10.15 * GR * Bitch * Mr P Maycock from Bromsgrove * Mr P Maycock from Bromsgrove Ruby * 11.08.15 * L * Bitch * Mrs E Watson from Leamington Spa * Mrs T Kirkwood from Cambridge Joni * 20.10.15 * L * Bitch * Mrs S Dowling from Crowborough Sammy * 20.10.15 * L * Stud * Mrs E Watson from Leamington Spa * Mr & Mrs P & A Russell from Nottingham Eva * 16.09.15 * GR * Bitch * Mrs M Court from Halesowen * Mr & Mrs S & J Flack from Chigwell Hamlet * 08.07.15 * L * Stud * Mrs J Paget from Rugby * Mr & Mrs J Wallace from Edinburgh Key: Marie * 22.10.15 * GR * Bitch * Mr P Maycock from Bromsgrove * Mrs D Milligan from Clitheroe x – Crossbreed CCR – Curly Coat Retriever COL – Collie Tansy * 20.10.15 * L * Bitch * Mrs J Klaar from Stourbridge * Mrs F Cave from Bromsgrove Ms J Meyers from Stratford-Upon-Avon Tess * 08.09.15 * L * Bitch * Mrs J Klaar from Stourbridge * Mrs C Weatherley from Beckenham Ulster * 16.09.15 * STP * Stud * Outside Bred * Mr & Mrs Landsberg from Milton Keynes Verity * 08.07.15 * GR * Bitch * Mrs D Bright from Kidlington * Mrs JC Rodwell from Milton Keynes FCR – Flat Coat Retriever GR – Golden Retriever L – Labrador GSD – German Shepherd Dog SPIN – Spinone IWS – Irish Water Spaniel STP – Standard Poodle Forward Magazine | Spring 2016 33 Over to you Letters Thanks to Kerry EdwardsPritchard from Cheltenham Ladies College for this photo of some of the girls finding out more about Guide Dogs as part of the school’s Wellbeing Programme. The girls loved meeting both guide dogs and puppies and are now hoping to raise enough to name a puppy. We love buddy dog Eddie so much! He has settled so well into our family. We have 11-year-old twins Alex and Jamie and 15-year-old Sam. Alex is blind and has cerebral palsy and severe learning difficulties, and Jamie has significant learning difficulties. Eddie is interacting and teaching them so much that I’m convinced he’s a magical healing dog! I think the whole buddy dog scheme is amazing. Without it we’d never have been able to have a dog and feel like we are lottery winners with Eddie. You did an amazing job with Eddie, and there are five very happy people here whose lives have been absolutely transformed for the better. Sian Russon Caption competition Thank you to puppy walker Geoff Heslop for sending in this picture of young puppy Page watching Yorkshire playing cricket at Headingley. What do you think Page is thinking? Please send your caption idea on a postcard to Forward, Guide Dogs, Hillfields, Burghfield Common, Reading RG7 3YG or email forward@guidedogs.org.uk with your name and address. There’s a £10 Marks and Spencer voucher for the winner. The winner of the last caption competition was Mrs J E Marshall from Southampton with: “Pssst! I’ll take the blame for the puddle if you tell me where they hide the biscuits.” Congratulations – we hope you enjoy your voucher. Competition rules This competition is 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. 34 Forward Magazine | Spring 2016 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 competition the Editor’s decision is final. No correspondence can be entered into. Entry implies acceptance of the rules. The closing date for the competition is 27 May 2016. 7:00AM 8:07AM 9:00AM 11:31AM 2:00 PM 3:27PM 4:15PM 8:44PM 11:00 PM Will you you leave leave a a gift that’s full of life? Will Guide dog Pippa is there for her owner Lynette all day, every day. Guide dog Pippa is there for her owner Lynette all day, every day. She’s She’s the confidence to start enjoying life again given given her theher confidence to start enjoying her wholeher lifewhole again without without relying on others. “With Pippa my side, can my friends can be relying on others. “With Pippa by my side,by my friends be my friends my not says my carers,” says Lynette. leave in your Will not friends my carers,” Lynette. Please leave aPlease gift in your Willatogift Guide Dogs to Guide Dogs and with sight loss live and help people withhelp sightpeople loss live every day to the full.every day to the full. For information DVD, Foraafree free bookletpack andand DVD showing visit guidedogs.org.uk/life incredible impact of gifts in Wills, the or call us on 0800 953 0113. visit guidedogs.org.uk/life or call us on 0800 953 0113 A14G80001 Guide Dogs is a working name of The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association. Registered Office: Hillfields, Burghfield Common, Reading, Berkshire, RG7 3YG. A company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales (291646) and a charity registered in England and Wales (209617) and Scotland (SC038979) A16G16001