LOCAL supporter groups for Guide Dogs are in need of more volunteers in Gloucestershire and the charity has put out an appeal for people to get in touch.

The charity has supporter groups in Cirencester, Stroud, Cheltenham,Tewkesbury and Dursley and the groups are all looking for new members.

Groups arrange events and collections to raise funds for Guide Dogs, and promote the different ways the charity supports people with sight loss.

David Beddow, from South Gloucestershire, started volunteering for Guide Dogs three years ago as a Puppy Walker, before joining his local supporter group in Stroud. He started supporting at collections and events across the county.

He said: “My wife and I knew, of course, that the charity relies almost entirely upon donations to support the amazing work that they do and we were keen to get involved with our puppy to do our bit in raising funds.

“We also really enjoy the social side of volunteering, meeting the general public, who always like seeing the puppies and talking to us, and meeting fellow volunteers and fundraisers.

“It really is a community of like-minded people who enjoy making a difference”.

Emily Williams, community fundraising development officer for Gloucestershire, said: “This year we’d love to get as many people involved in supporting Guide Dogs in Gloucestershire as possible.

"By joining a local supporter group, you can get involved in all sorts of activities such as helping at collections, arranging an event for us or looking for homes for our collection boxes.”

Emily added: “If you’re looking for a fun and flexible volunteering role, which is sociable and rewarding, we’d urge you to get in touch.”

  • For more information on how you can join a Guide Dogs’ supporter group in Gloucestershire, please contact 0345 143 0194 or email emily.williams@guidedogs.org.uk