GUIDE dog supporters in Gwynedd have taken part in a series of walks to mark their 40th anniversary and the contribution of one very special guide dog owner.

The walks, which have taken place through Barmouth, Criccieth, Llanystumdwy, Caernarfon and Y Felinheli, were organised to raise money for the charity Guide Dogs Cymru in memory of Arthur Rowlands, who helped set up Cwn Tywys Gwynedd and became its honorary president.

Mr Rowlands, a police officer, lost his sight after he was shot in the face in Machynlleth while on duty in 1961. He was just 39 years old at the time, and went on to win the George Medal for his bravery that night.

Supporters hope to raise £5,000 to name a guide dog puppy – and it’s likely the choice will be ‘Arthur’.

Deborah Rees from the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association said: “Mr Rowlands was a wonderful ambassador and role model for Cwn Tywys Gwynedd.

“He had five guide dogs in his lifetime, and embodied the freedom, dignity and independence that guide dog ownership brings."

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