Dogs ‘Go Walkies’

Photo: Frank Harrison

Alice King with her dog Scanner

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More than 30 dogs, large and small, old and young, different colours and sizes, and their respective owners and families, took part in a ‘Go Walkies’ sponsored walk to raise funds for the continued provision and support of Guide Dogs for blind and partially sighted people.

The Oldham volunteers Fundraising Branch of Guide Dogs, organised the walk on Sunday morning, starting at the visitor centre Hollingworth Lake, Littleborough.

The weather was kind, with clear blue skies, and a hint of frosty freshness in the air as the group gathered early Sunday morning.

People came from far and wide, including Eccles and the Wirral, as well as regular local walkers, and had all been sponsored by their friends, family, neighbours, and work colleagues to raise money after completing the walk around the Lake.

Youngster Alice King with her dog Scanner, had raised over £90 by asking her school, neighbours and friends to sponsor her walk.

Another couple had had sponsorship of over £650 from their network of friends.

Money is still coming in, and expectations are that this event will have raised well over one thousand pounds.

Eukanuba offered sponsorship as well as 6 months supply of dog food for one lucky participant.

A certificate was awarded to each participant and a doggy ‘goody bag’ for each dog, donated by Jollyes pet store in Ashton-Under Lyne.

Walking around the lake, people shared conversations about their experiences of someone they knew who had lost their sight, and the difference and independence a Guide Dog had given them, developing an extraordinary relationship at the same time.

A spokesperson said: "A big thank you to everyone that took part. We hope to hold the same event next year."