SEVEN people in St Helens who require a guide dog will now get a companion thanks to the Saints Community Development Foundation.

SCDF have teamed up with Guide Dog Association to help people in need in the borough after the latest data revealed that there are four people in our community waiting for a guide dog.

A member of the SCDF Stuart Lanham has already set the ball rolling with the purchase of a guide dog paid for by Friends of the Foundation fundraising programme who has been called Boots after the team's mascot.

However, because guide dogs cost £5,000 each including training they need donations to raise a further £15,000.

Steve Leonard SCDF Director said: “This is a fantastic support venture that would surpass anything we have ever done if we can achieve it. Just think of the difference we will be making to seven people who are from our own community.

“Allowing them to do the things that you and I take for granted. I know the people of St Helens and the way we look after our own, so please do what you can to raise that all important £15,000.

“The foundation has started the ball rolling and will be parading ‘Boots’ the guide dog at an upcoming Saints home game. Look out for all the ways you can assist and together we can achieve this and send a message to the rest of the sporting world.

“Thanks in advance of your kind generosity. If you need any reason to donate, then please take time to read Stuarts story below. This was just another day in Stuart’s life.”

To donate email scdf@saintsrlfc.com or write a cheque payable to SCDF Ltd that will go straight into the appeal.

Dad-of-two Stuart knows how important a guide dog can be after himself being left blind and with only one arm after contracting sepsis in 2014.

Read more of Stuart's story

here

.