A 68-year-old woman who lost her sight in her thirties told the Chronicle how her life has been completely transformed by the invaluable assistance of a guide dog she received four years ago reports TIM BUTTERS.

Judith Thompson was born with an eye condition leading to a gradual deterioration in her sight, which she lost completely in her mid-thirties.

For decades Judith relied solely on a cane for independence of movement, but eight years ago she opted to apply for a guide dog after countless people had suggested to her the benefits of having one these intelligent and caring companions.

"At first I resisted the idea of having a guide dog because I actually thought a dog might restrict me in my movements, not only around towns, but on mountains too, where I do a lot of walking," explained Judith.

"I couldn't have been more wrong," revealed the converted advocate of the dogs, who from birth undergo intensive training which is estimated to cost twenty five to thirty thousand pounds over the course of their lifetime.

After expressing her interest to the relevant authorities about having a guide dog, Judith had to wait four years for one of these sought after animals and then one day she made the acquaintance of a black labrador/collie cross called Ruby.

"Ruby has changed my life completely," said Judith. "Her very presence has encouraged me to be much more active and she helps me get around both the mountains and shops better.

"In fact, she knows the names of all the shops in Abergavenny better than I do."

Judith added, "I would highly recommend anyone who is thinking of improving their quality of life by getting one of these amazing animals to do so.

" They really will become your best friend in no time at all"

Keen to raise both awareness and money for guide dogs, Judith is organising a fundraising walk taking place next Tuesday and told the Chronicle, "I've participated in walks to raise money for guide dogs before but this is the first time I've organised one.

"The route starts at Llwyn Du car-park, which you can access via Chapel Road, at 10am and will be a circular walk that should take about an hour and a half.

"Anyone with a dog can turn up on the day and they don't have to be guide dogs. Any contributions you'd like to make towards the charity during the walk is entirely up to you.

"The walk is also about raising awareness and helping people to understand the essential work guide dogs do.

"I know Ruby is especially looking forward to it because I'll be using a cane to get around on the day so she can run free with the other dogs.

"Every dog who attends will get a special guide dog award after the walk and who knows, they might just make a few friends too."

For further details please contact Judith Thompson on 01873 859963 or email [email protected]">[email protected].