VISITORS to a Taunton Shopping Centre are now able to buy Christmas presents for dog lovers while supporting a sight loss charity.
Guide Dogs volunteers are running a pop-up shop opposite Greggs at Orchard Shopping Centre until Saturday, December 17.
The shop is open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 10am until 4pm.
It stocks a range of Guide Dogs merchandise including cards, plush toys and stationery with all proceeds going to the charity.
Krissie Isaac, of Guide Dogs, said: “The pop-up shop is a great opportunity to raise funds for Guide Dogs and help us continue our vital work for people with sight loss.
“We encourage anyone who might be popping out for their Christmas shopping to come and see us!
“Our guide dogs are truly life-changing, allowing people with sight loss to enjoy the same freedom and independence as everyone else.
“We are so proud of our volunteers and would like to thank them for everything they do.
“We also wish to recognise the fantastic support that the group receives from individuals and businesses within the local community.”
It costs around £55,000 to breed, train and support a guide dog throughout their life.
There are around 24,000 people living with sight loss in Somerset.
While not all of these people are registered blind, their sight loss is significant enough to impact their daily lives.
The charity is looking for volunteers across several roles, from fundraising help to raising puppies.
For more information, visit www.guidedogs.org.uk/volunteer or call 0800 781 1444.
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