Children sniff out clues for Guide Dogs

Charity fundraiser and support for Wash Common shops

FAMILIES showed their support for charity and local shops at an Easter egg hunt in Wash Common on Saturday.

The young Easter detectives set off to find clues hidden in shops in Monument Close. Collected letters then revealed a word which they could cash in for an Easter egg prize.

The families helped to raise £140 for Guide Dogs UK in the process, joined by guide dogs, retired guide dogs, puppies and their owners, along with a giant guide dog mascot who entertained everyone.

Organiser Rachel Spillane said the event was designed to raise funds and awareness for the charity while supporting local shops. She added that the event had gone well, with a steady stream of people taking part throughout the day .

The owner of Budgens in Wash Common, Mike Estlea, said: “We were really pleased with how the event went, our customers joined in the fun with lots of local children gathering clues from the shops in the parade to win an Easter egg and, with several retired Guide Dogs visiting the shop as well, it was a very successful fundraiser.

“The shop was decorated with banners and bunting made by local schoolchildren so it looked fantastic and helped make the day even more special. We look forward to supporting the Guide Dogs charity again in the future.