AN appeal to raise enough money for a sixth Ipswich Star guide dog is today more than half-way towards its target.

The appeal is aiming to raise �5,000 and now has more than �3,300 after three months – boosted at the weekend by �1,454 raised at a craft fayre staged at Felixstowe Leisure Centre.

Puppy walker Penny Parker, of the East and Mid Suffolk Guide Dogs fundraising group, said: “It was a super sum to raise and we are all really pleased.

“It was �500 down on last year, but we took �200 more in donations on the door, and we are in a recession at the moment.

“Stallholders’ takings were down but they were still pleased with their sales.

“It was a great day and it was very well supported, and I just want to thank all the stallholders and everyone who came along.”

This autumn a new guide dog puppy will arrive to follow in the footsteps of previous dogs Star, Faith, and Sterling, and current pup Robson, who will then move on to the next stage of his training.

The money has already been raised for the next pup, the fifth Ipswich Star pup, thanks to generous Star readers and a variety of businesses, community organisations and fundraising events.

? To donate to the Ipswich Star Guide Dog Appeal, send your cheques – made payable to Guide Dogs – to Richard Cornwell, Felixstowe editor, Felixstowe Star, 172 Hamilton Road, Felixstowe, Suffolk, IP11 7DU.