Bowerhill Barkers appeal for help

A group of Bowerhill fundraisers are appealing for help for their ‘coffee and cake day’ to raise money for a guide dog charity.

The event will be the first for the new group who call themselves the Bowerhill Barkers. Led by Caroline Fielding, who is registered as blind, the group will host the fundraiser at the Bowerhill Village Hall on Thursday 24th May from 10am to 4pm.

“In order for this event to be a success, we need your help,” said Caroline. “As well as plenty of cake and coffee, there will be many activities on the day for people to take part in including a tombola, a raffle and guessing the number of sweets in a jar.

“We are looking for the following items to be donated; refreshments such as coffee, tea, and soft drinks, cakes, bottles of wine for the ‘water and wine’ stall, a cuddly dog for a ‘name the dog’ competition, raffle prizes and anything else you think might help.”

All money raised at the event will go to Guide Dogs Southampton. Caroline said, “Just before Christmas two years ago, I was registered blind.  As I’m sure you can imagine, this was a devastating blow to me.  It took a lot of support from many people and organisations, for me to come to terms with having to live with this life-changing event.

“Guide Dogs Southampton is one of the charities that has helped enable me to move forward. They gave my friends and family sighted-guide training, and have supported me to manage day-to-day activities and overcome many difficulties.

“Guide Dogs Southampton is an essential charity who provide guide dogs, and support people with sight difficulties in Wiltshire. I am on the waiting list for a guide dog, which will be provided by them, and hope to have one this summer.

“I am so grateful to Guide Dogs Southampton for their support and, to show my gratitude, I want to raise some money for the guide dogs they train.”

To donate or offer support for the event, contact Bowerhill Barkers on 07958 802794 or 07725 519051.