Gills coaches show their support for the upcoming Dine in the Dark event
This week Head of Community, Adam Lawrence and Development Team Manager, Mark Patterson welcomed guide dog Skye and her trainer, Deborah Ingram to MEMS Priestfield Stadium to present them with a signed ball and some match tickets in support of their upcoming Dine in the Dark event.Dine in the Dark takes place on Thursday 31 October at the Hilton Hotel in Maidstone and will give those that attend an insight in to the challenges faced on a daily basis by people who are blind or partial sighted. Guests’ taste buds will be tantalised by a delicious three course spooky Halloween feast, but there is a catch as the guests will be blindfolded.
Those attending will also be able to meet some of the puppies and advanced training dogs like Skye, take part in a trick or treat tombola, and bid on some wonderful auction prizes to help raise much needed funds and ensure that Guide Dogs can continue their invaluable work.
On average a guide dog costs £50,000 this includes training which begins when they are six weeks old and takes approximately 16 months. Skye is in the last month of her training and will be meeting her new owner on 15 November, when they will be given two weeks support as they get to know each other.
Once in their new home guide dog owners are fully supported with the care of their dogs from feeding to veterinary costs and the charity are always on hand to offer support and guidance on looking after their new best friend.
Speaking about the charity Adam said “As a club we are honoured to be able to assist Guide Dogs with the event, we hope that the signed ball and tickets will help to raise additional funds on the night.
“Last year we were able to assist their fund-raising when they held an event at Mote Park, which myself, Bradley Dack and Callum Davies attended. The theme on that day was ‘Walk my Walk’ and, again, gave people an insight in to what everyday tasks are like for people who are blind or partially sighted.”
There are still a few tickets available for the Dine in the Dark so if you would like to attend please call 0845 372 7422. To find out more about Guide Dogs or to make a donation please visit www.guidedogs.org.uk.