Local Guide Dog fundraisers in Midsomer Norton have won recognition for raising £13,000, enabling them to support a guide dog into a partnership with someone with sight loss.

Thanks to these hard-working volunteers, guide dog, Nala, is now fully funded to support someone with sight loss for her working dog career.

It costs around £57,000 to breed, train and support a guide dog throughout their life.

Guide Dogs continues to support dogs during their time working, so the £13,000 covers the cost of food, vets bills and ongoing training after the dog is partnered with someone with sight loss.

The fundraising group, made up entirely of volunteers, raised the sum by organising supermarket collections and events.

Community Fundraising Relationship Manager, Krissie Isaac, said: “This amazing group of volunteers have done incredibly well to raise this sum.

“Volunteers kindly offer their time, support and energy to our charity. Without them, we wouldn’t be able to continue our work.

“Our guide dogs are truly life-changing, allowing people with sight loss to enjoy the same freedom and independence as everyone else.

“We are so proud of our volunteers and would like to thank them for everything they do. We also wish to recognise the fantastic support that the group receives from individuals and businesses within the local community.”

Guide Dogs provides full training for all volunteers. To find out about volunteering for Guide Dogs, visit: www.guidedogs.org.uk/volunteering or get in touch with the local team on: 0345 143 0204.