Mayor of Northampton meets Spencer the guide dog puppy and announces £20,000 charity milestone

Spencer, a 12-week-old golden Labrador, is a guide dog puppy-in-training and is named after Perceval Spencer, the only Prime Minster to come from Northampton.

His training has been sponsored by the Mayor of Northampton Christopher Malpas, who has used this year's Mayor's Fund to raise over £20,000 for Guide Dogs for the Blind Northampton.

Councillor Malpas, who is registered blind, said: "Having a guide dog like Verity changed my life. With her, I was able to run for councillor and I wouldn't be where I am today. The work that goes into training guide dogs is so important."

In his visit to the Northampton Guildhall yesterday (May 9), Spencer 'met' Spencer Perceval at his statue in the lobby before enjoying some playtime with councillor Malpas' current guide dog, Verity.

It is estimated a guide dog will need £56,500 during their lifetime of service for food, health checks and training, as well as ensuring they have a safe, comfortable retirement.

Donors who raise £5,000 for Guide Dogs for the Blind earn the privilege of naming a new trainee puppy.

Spencer's name was chosen by Northampton Borough Council employee Louise Hannam, who won a competition in November and was invited to the Guildhall to meet the new puppy.

He is the second of four puppies that will be sponsored and named by councillor Malpas' fundraising.

Councillor Malpas said: "When I began fundraising this year I never expected it to fly out of hand like it has.

"It's a tremendous amount money and a complete tribute to way the Guide Dogs Northampton branch have come together as a team to help my fundraising. They are as much a part of this success as I am."

Spencer will leave for advanced guide dog training - or 'big school' - when he is about 15 months old.