New bid to boost guide dogs

SUPPORTERS of a charity are urging people to recycle mobile phones, jewellery and ink cartridges to help them buy and train guide dogs for blind people.

A Treasure Box has been placed in the Abbey National Bank in Hamilton Road, Felixstowe, for people to make their deposits to help the project.

Penny Parker, of Guide Dogs for the Blind, said it was a great chance for people to support a good cause by donating lots of items they might otherwise throw away.

“We are looking for as many ways as we can to raise money in the Felixstowe and Ipswich area and this is one where lots of people will be able to help,” she said.

“All sorts of items can be donated - many we just normally stick in our bins or leave sitting in cupboards and drawers at home - and the charity will be able to turn them into money to help provide more guide dogs.

“Just ten donated inkjet cartridges could pay for a guide dog for a day and 10,000 mobile phones would pay for a guide dog for life.

“Jewellery, watches, keys, mobile phones, old and foreign coins or bank notes can all be donated.”

Mrs Parker, who looks after guide dog puppies to give them their first experiences of crowds, trains, schools, traffic and so on before the first stage of their training, said old or new jewellery, from a single earring to a modern plastic necklace, in any condition, broken, outdated or simply no longer wanted, could all be recycled.

All watches from Rolex to free plastic ones, were accepted, any old keys or money, and any working or broken mobile phones, though people must remember to remove the SIM card before donating.

A craft fair, sponsored by Gold Star Transport, is being held in aid of Guide Dogs for the Blind at Felixstowe Leisure Centre on September 2.

All stalls are now taken for the event, which will run from 10am to 4pm. As well as a variety of crafts there will be a tombola, raffle and refreshments. Admission is by donation.