09-06-2025
Pontllanfraith couple win award for raising guide dog pups
Peter and Sue Simms, from Pontllanfraith, were presented with the Princess Alexandra Award for Lifetime Achievement by Guide Dogs Cymru at a ceremony in Cardiff to mark Volunteers' Week.
The couple took in their first guide dog puppy 25 years ago and have continued to foster and care for puppies, many of whom have gone on to become successful guide dogs.
Mr Simms said: "We got involved with Guide Dogs two years after our own dog died.
"We missed having a dog but were reluctant to get another pet, so this was an opportunity to do something different."
The couple are currently looking after black Labrador cross German Shepherd Jenna, who is 14 months old.
She accompanied them to the awards ceremony, where they were praised for their compassion, patience and generosity in helping guide dog puppies to thrive.
They were presented with their award by Guide Dogs' chief executive, Andrew Lennox, who said: "They have proved themselves to be truly remarkable, kind individuals."
The couple say they have learned how smart the dogs are by the speed at which they develop.
