On International Guide Dog Day, Metro Mayor Dan Norris met a paw-fect pack of puppy trainees when he visited the newly refurbished Guide Dogs South West Regional Centre training centre.

The soon-to-be canine helpers will support 80 blind and partially sighted people across the West of England, ensuring they are better equipped to set out into the region with their trusted friend. The Mayor learnt how they will grow from a six-week-old bundle of fur to a fully-qualified assistant pooch.

Before meeting the trainee pups, the Metro Mayor learnt how the centre has bounced back from the pandemic to provide much-needed services to the 36,530 West of England residents estimated to be living with sight loss from Guide Dogs UK Regional Policy and Campaigns Manager Clive Lewis.

This includes their currently supporting over 96 guide dog partnerships across the region (and counting) and helping over 240 visually impaired children and young people develop a wide range of vital life skills such as navigating streets safely, preparing food, handling money and using technology.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris said: "We know the vitally important role that guide dogs play in assisting people who are blind or have partial sight loss in our region. They are a constant source of support, awareness, company and security; they truly are the paw-fect pal. I know the new recruits will be just as important in helping local people get out and about and enjoy all our amazing region has to offer".

Guide Dogs UK's South West Centre is located in Bristol and delivers services across the Bristol, Bath and North East Somerset and South Gloucestershire areas.