Injured guide dog wins award

GUIDE dog Peter is trained to save lives – but just one year ago his owners thought he might never walk properly again.

The eight-year-old labrador golden retriever from the Broxtowe Estate suffered broken cruciate ligaments in his back legs and a ruptured disk in his spine while out walking.

But after three major operations in eight weeks, and the help of regular walks and hydrotherapy, Peter is on the road to recovery.

And his work helping owner Philip Godber – who is registered blind – has been honoured by the Guide Dog of the Year Awards.

He won in the Outstanding Work category in the regional competition and will compete against dogs across the country for the national prize.

Owner Philip, 43, of Firsby Road in the Broxtowe Estate, said: "He loves his work and I love him to bits.

"He has saved my life twice – he is trained to cross roads and run in front of me if there is a car coming.

"Once if I had carried on I would have been hit. He is a fantastic character."

Peter became slightly lame in one leg 18 months ago before suffering his injuries during a day out in Lincoln.

He underwent a year of training, including short walks and hydrotherapy, to get his health back on track.

Philip's wife Susan said: "The future looks peachy for Peter. His hard work and determination for the life he loves has paid dividends.

"Throughout his illness, Peter was still happy to go along on his voluntary work into schools and spread the word of Guide Dogs' work."