A GUIDE dog, who has helped a Hereford woman feel able to face the world again, has been nominated for an award.

Dash, a black Labrador, was matched with Claire Rush just over a year ago while she was in hospital suffering depression.

Now, not only has he given her a huge confidence boost but he has also learnt to help her with a balance problem.

Miss Rush, 45, said: "When I got the call to say they had found me a possible dog I was in hospital really struggling with mental health.

"But then I knew Dash would help me out of that.

"It couldn't have come at a better time. It really gave me a focus. I haven't looked back. Just on a daily basis- he is a reason to get up.

"He just gives me that confidence- I don't have it when I don't have a dog."

Dash is one of the finalists at the Guide Dog of the Year Awards on December 10 in London in the life-changing partnership category.

But it is not the first time Miss Rush has been at the awards as her previous dog, Trudy, won the award in 2011. Trudy is now enjoying retired life on her friend’s farm in Bromyard.

Miss Rush said: "It is lovely to have another dog who is really stepping up to the mark.

"One of the big differences Dash has made- I have recently been diagnosed with an ear disease, which has really affected my balance.

"Dash isn't trained to help me in that respect but he has stepped up to it.

"If we come to any uneven ground which looks a bit difficult, he stops and looks around and makes sure I am alright. He is so intuitive."

Miss Rush was born blind in her right eye and when she was 19 her sight started to deteriorate in her left eye from undiagnosed glaucoma.

She can now only see light and dark.

Miss Rush said: "Dash really loves being a guide dog. He's so keen. He takes it very seriously, yet his tail is always wagging. He makes me feel like I can do anything I set my mind to.”