THE children at Busy Bees in Ledbury have had a busy start to the autumn term, learning all about pets and working animals, and that included a visit from the local branch of the Guide Dog Association.

Manager Emma Davis said: "Interest in this started following a visit from the new pets belonging to staff members - Cory the kitten and Tobi the puppy. "Learning experiences stemmed from this interest, enabling the children to participate in lots of fun activities. In particular, they have enjoyed making bone shaped biscuits, showing photos of their own pets, potato printing paw prints, making play-dough pets and treating animals in the vets role play."

To extend the children's understanding about pets, mrs Davis contacted the local branch of the Guide Dog Association in the hope that a visit could be arranged.

Mrs Davis said: "On Thursday September 20, two representatives, Debbie and Jean, visited Busy Bees with two guide dogs, Ellie and Henley. The purpose of the visit was to get the children thinking about how guide dogs can be pets but work to help their owners too so are very special."

She added: "Debbie and Jean talked to us about the role of a guide dog, their training and the support they can offer to someone with impaired vision. The children were encouraged to close their eyes and think about what it would be like if they were unable to see. We learned that when guide dogs are working, they should not be approached as this can distract them and put the person, or the dog, in danger."

Ellie and Henley were really gentle liked having a stroke and fuss from the children.

Mrs Davis added: "Henley particularly liked having his tummy rubbed Afterwards, all the children were given a guide dog sticker and some children bought cuddly toy guide dogs.

"Some of the children at Busy Bees will be seeing the guide dogs again when they are at Co-Op in October. We're excited at the possibility of there being a guide dog puppy there; and the staff were so inspired by the visit that a decision was made to sponsor a guide dog, with the children voting on which one they'd like to help - Eve, Teddy or Spirit.