KELLY Jones of Lydney is running a special event to help a charity which supplies assistance dogs to injured and disabled service men and women.

"Hounds for Heroes was set up by Allen Parton, who was left with physical and emotional difficulties following an accident while serving as Chief Petty Officer with the Royal Navy during the Gulf War," said Kelly.

"His injuries left him unable to walk and he suffered memory loss, which meant he had no recollection of his wife and children. 

"He was sinking into despair until he attended a session with Canine Partners, where he met 'Endal', a yellow Labrador who changed his life. This unique partnership hit the headlines after a photographer spotted Endal helping Allen at the cashpoint machine. Sadly, Endal passed away last spring. 

"The charity is currently running a 'Puppies on Parade' appeal, which aims to raise £100,000 to purchase and train five puppies up to a standard that will assist the injured and disabled service men and women."

Kelly has organised an afternoon tea event at Lydney Community Centre on Sunday June 27 (2-5pm).

"We will also be running a small raffle, the prizes for which have been kindly donated by local businesses. We are hoping to run a table sale too, so if anyone is interested in holding a table, they can contact me for more information at [email protected]">[email protected] or telephone Dean 842956.

"If anyone is willing to make cakes for the day, or volunteer a few hours of their time to help out for the afternoon, it would be greatly appreciated."