PUPILS at a Haverfordwest primary school have recently enjoyed a visit from a VIP – a Very Important Puppy.

Elsie, a black Labrador puppy, bred specially by Guide Dogs UK, attended morning assembly at Mary Immaculate on Merlin’s Hill, where pupils were able to ask questions about a guide dog’s early training.

The school became involved with Guide Dogs last year when learning support assistants Kate Evans, Fiona Austin and Helena Blair ran the Cardiff Half Marathon, raising £1,500 for the charity.

They were inspired by Toby Williams, a popular boy who lost his sight nearly five years ago due to a brain tumour and had to learn new cane skills to navigate his way around the school.

Kate Evans said: “I worked with Toby before and after he lost his sight. He has a great attitude and sense of humour.

“Guide Dogs seemed such an obvious charity because Toby could benefit in the long run from the money we raised. The puppy’s visit made us feel quite emotional.”

Fiona Austin, who now supports 11-year-old Toby at Haverfordwest High VC School, said: “We never dreamed we would raise so much money, but it touched a lot of people.

“We set a target of £300 and ended up donating five times that amount, thanks to the school community, the parish community and donations from parents. Even former pupils came in with their pocket money.”

The total meant that pupils in Year Six were invited to name a guide dog puppy. They chose Elsie in honour of a nun, now living in Ireland, who taught at the school when it was a convent.

To find out how your school, group or business can choose a name and enjoy a visit from a guide dog puppy, ring Allison Charles on 07990 540130 or email Allison.charles@guidedogs.org.uk