A GUIDE dogs charity is calling for puppy walkers to join them in Worcestershire to help train the animals to assist people who are visually impaired.

The charity Guide Dogs trains and provides support dogs for people who are blind or visually impaired, and needs volunteers.

It will cover all food and vet costs and each walker will be provided with on-going support and guidance, and respite care for the puppy is part of the package for commitments such as holidays.

Alex Willetts, from Worcester, has recently started looking after her first guide dog puppy, Hilly.

She said: “I decided to become a puppy walker because I wanted to get more involved with the charity and give something new a go.”

Over the next year, Alex will be helping Hilly learn basic commands as well as experiencing new environments when they are out and about together.

“I’m really looking forward to watching Hilly grow, seeing her personality develop and seeing if she is like her mum," Alex said.

“People often say how can you let them go, but it gets to the point at around 12 months where you can see they’re eager to learn more. It’s bittersweet, but you want them to go and do well."

"We all know the end goal and that’s to help someone with sight loss get out and about and be independent,” she added.

Applicants for the puppy walking role must be over 18 years of age and be in a position to offer the dogs a temporary home.

The charity is currently responsible for around 8,000 dogs, with each one costing over £50,000 to support from birth to retirement.

The total running cost for Guide Dogs in 2017 was just under £50million and the charity relies on public support.

To register your interest, contact Heather Gelder on 01189838253 or email heather.gelder@guidedogs.org.uk