A GUIDE dogs charity has paid tribute to two dedicated volunteers after years of service.
Tony and Pat Revell began supporting Guide Dogs back in 1976 when they became volunteer puppy walkers.
The couple joined the Guide Dogs Solihull supporter group in 2007 where they took on the role of Solihull Guide Dog fundraising co-ordinators.
Now, ten years on, the duo have stepped down from that role.
But the branch will not be losing Tony and Pat altogether, as they will still be active volunteers.
Both Pat and Tony admit they have “loved being part of the group”, and were especially “proud” of being part of the groups 40th anniversary celebrations.
A spokesperson from Guide Dogs Solihull said: “Tony and Pat have always offered help in many ways from lending their support to individual guide dog owners to supporting the Charities campaigns and initiatives.
“However both have agreed that their biggest thrill has been when one of the puppies they have helped to train has gone on to successfully become a guide dog, and had made a real difference to the life of someone living with sight loss.”
Guide Dogs say they have secured the volunteer support of Michael Abbott, who will takeover some of the couple’s duties.
He has been a fundraising volunteer for just over two years.
Michael will take over from Tony and Pat as Solihull branch co-ordinator from March 1.
The spokesperson added: “Solihull branch is always on the look-out for new volunteers to help them support people with a visual disability, and would be delighted to hear from you.”
For more information visit Twitter @SoliGuideDog and Facebook www.facebook.com/Solihullguidedogs1/
