Campaign for safer streets

Guide Dogs for the Blind this week launched its A-Z of Street Obstacles as part of its 'Safer Streets for Blind and Partially Sighted People' campaign, with an event in Westminster. The publication offers practical suggestions to reduce unnecessary obstacles on pavements such as advertising boards, scaffolding and wheelie bins. MPs Sue Doughty, Neil Gerrard and Jim Dobbins (pictured from left with Sue Pitt and guide dog) wore special spectacles Ð Simspecs Ð to mimic blindness as they negotiated a specially designed obstacle course organised by the charity. The event was sponsored by Edward Davey MP and followed an early day motion which has been signed by over 100 MPs who are backing the campaign. More information is available at www.guidedogs.org.uk/saferstreets.