Surprise award for campaigner

Ms Newman was presented with a framed certificate and photograph of a guide dog by charity director Oliver Goldsmith (second left) at a surprise ceremony at the practice. The branch has raised &\#163;14,000 for the charity since it started collecting used postage stamps more than nine years ago. Ms Newman commented: 'The team at Widnes are always keen to do more for the charity. One of our branches in Lancaster organised a sponsored blind bowling competition recently, and that's something we would be willing to do to raise money.' Also pictured are Jane Williams and her guide dog Melody, Lyndsay Holt, Conlons sales and marketing manager, puppy walker Janet McAlmont and John Fletcher of Halton Friends of the Guide Dogs.