A BIRCHWOOD man, who is registered blind, says that having a guide dog has transformed his life by giving him back his independence.

Edward Green, of Noble Close, will be showing his gratitude during Guide Dogs Week by having a sponsored chest and back wax at Evans House in Norman Street on Saturday.

It is part of a big fundraiser for Guide Dogs for the Blind between noon and 3pmwith a cake sale, raffle, tombola and a performance by the Wire Choir.

Edward has been partially sighted since birth due to severe myopia and he was registered blind in April.

The 29-year-old can only see 2ft in front of him and gets about with the help of Macca, his golden retriever.

He said: "It's not like the bond you have with a pet. It's a lot stronger than that as you have to put all your trust in that dog and in return you get respect back."

Macca is Edward's second guide dog after his labrador retriever Bradley was attacked by a German shepherd in June 2012.

Bradley was given vet treatment and some retraining but later retired after guiding Edward for four years.

Edward added: "It was probably the hardest decision I had to make but it was the best thing for him.

"I was using a cane before I got Bradley and he made all the difference as I was able to get around and get my independence back.

"After Bradley I didn't have a guide dog for five months and I was struggling to get around and that was when they found Macca.

"Now I go wherever I want to go. Having Bradley and Macca has been life changing."

- Edward will be having his chest and back waxed at about 1pm on Saturday at Evans House and all are welcome to come and show their support

- To pledge a donation to Edward, visit virginmoneygiving.com/edwardgreen2