A LOCAL man who has been blind for three decades has launched a fund-raising drive for the Guide Dogs charity, to give something back for all the help he has received.

Patrick Adams, of Wellington Heath, near Ledbury was working in a tin mine in the 1980s when he was blinded by an explosion.

He was still in his twenties, and expert surgery was to give him temporary sight back in one eye, but he said: "Eventually, both my retinas packed up."

Since then, he has had five guide dogs, including his present dog, Ivan.

Mr Adams said: "I feel that I know how much it takes to support and train a Guide Dog, and I am keen put something back."

Mr Adams is the head of a fundraising team, from Wellington Heath, called Patrick and the Pacemakers.

They have set themselves the task of raising £2000 this summer, towards the cost of a Guide Dog, and already more than £1000 has been raised.

On Friday June 5, there was an Open Garden day at Longacre, Evendine Lane, Colwall from 6pm to 9pm, by kind permission of owner David Pudsey, and this raised £500.

On Sunday June 7, Upton Rowing Club, of which Mr Adams is a member, added its support by holding a Blindfold Row, which raised £50, and more donations from this and elsewhere are still coming in.

On September 12, there will be a 'blacknosed breakfast" at Wellington Heath's Memorial Hall, from 10am, when people will be sponsored to eat a full English breakfast while wearing a black "doggie" nose and blindfold.

Fundraising events this summer will culminate in the Coniston Challenge, also in September.

Mr Adams said: "The intrepid team of Guide Dog heroes will do a sponsored walk up the Old Man of Coniston, an off road, orienteering cycle ride through Grizedale Forest and finish with kayaking on Coniston Water; all in one day."

Any wishing to get involved or contribute can contact Patrick Adams through www.uk.virginmoneygiving.com or by phoning 01531 634793.

All donations will go direct to Guide Dogs.