suffolk: Generous donations have given a big boost to the Evening Star Christmas appeal to provide another guide dog for a blind or visually-impaired person.

Supporters took part in the Notcutt’s garden centre festive season launch at the weekend – and raised �256 for the fund.

Our latest puppy Sterling was among those taking part and helping to promote the appeal, which aims to raise �7,500 for the breeding, naming and basic training of another puppy.

Puppy walker Penny Parker said: “It was a brilliant day and people were really supportive and very generous.

“We had several members of the team there with us and several dogs and were able to talk to lots of people about the charity and the appeal and the work we do.

“Everyone is thrilled with how the appeal is going and to raise the money for a fourth puppy will be a tremendous achievement.”

Sterling is now ten weeks old and is a month into his initial training, picking up basic commands well and is being exposed to a variety of different experiences – including learning how to cope with crowds, open spaces and busy streets and traffic.

In between he is out promoting guide dogs and is available to visit groups, schools, organisations and businesses who are raising money and to attend fundraising events.

“We are more than happy to come and talk about the work of the guide dogs and how people can get involved in the appeal,” said Mrs Parker

? If you are organising a fundraising event then we want to hear so we can give it maximum publicity and boost the amount raised – let Richard Cornwell at the Felixstowe Newsdesk know what you are up to on 01394 284109 or call the Ipswich Newsdesk on 01473 324788.

? To donate to the appeal, please send cheques – made payable to Guide Dogs – to Richard Cornwell, Evening Star, 172 Hamilton Road, Felixstowe, IP11 7DU.