Thomas The Baker’s Guide Dog for the Blind, Thomas, starts his formal training this month – where he’ll take the lead to help blind and partially sighted people.

The Guide Dogs For the Blind Association puppy has left for one of the Guide Dogs’ National Training Schools, where he will learn the complex skills to give a lifeline to blind and partially sighted people.

Said Chris Chapman, of Thomas the Baker: “It costs more than £5,000 to breed and puppy-walk each guide dog, and the charity depends entirely on public support.

“It’s a really worthy cause and we’re delighted to see that Thomas has earned his stripes to continue with his training.”