The Pembrokeshire Fundraising Group of Guide Dogs Cymru celebrated an impressive milestone on November 9, 2023, hosting a coffee morning at the Harbwr Bar in Saundersfoot. Marking 50 years of dedicated fundraising efforts in the county, the event attracted a strong turnout despite adverse weather conditions, including flooding the previous day. Attendees raised nearly £900, with additional donations still coming in.
Guests included Natalie De Maid, the Regional Community Fundraising Manager for the Central Region, and Ruth Evans, the Community Fundraising Manager for Wales. They were joined by guide dog Mobility Specialist Hari Hartnell and his trainee guide dog, Yale. Other notable attendees included Adge with guide dog Skip, John with guide dog Eddie, and Maureen and Martin with their withdrawn guide dog Toffee along with retired guide dog Merry.
In her remarks, De Maid commended the group for their unwavering commitment to fundraising and promoting guide dogs in Pembrokeshire over the last five decades. She expressed gratitude for the hard work of all volunteers contributing to the cause.
Group Organiser Eva Rich emphasized the importance of community support during the coffee morning, acknowledging the challenges posed by the weather. She also expressed appreciation for Andy and the Harbwr Bar for hosting the event and generously donating the coffee.
A highlight of the morning was a raffle organized by Helen Hedley, which featured prizes donated by local businesses. Many attendees left with exciting vouchers, contributing to the event’s festive atmosphere.
Rich concluded the event with a heartfelt message, thanking everyone for their continued support throughout the year. She acknowledged the efforts of local volunteers in maintaining collection boxes and assisting with fundraising initiatives. Rich remarked on the meaningful bond between guide dogs and their handlers, specifically referencing the connections between Skip and Eddie with Adge and John, as well as Sue and Henry in Tenby.
As the event wrapped up, Rich raised a toast to the next 50 years of vital fundraising for this important charity, reinforcing the community’s commitment to supporting individuals with visual impairments through the assistance of guide dogs.
