PETRA has been named Warrington's guide dog of the year for the invaluable work she does with her widowed owner.
She has helped Cathy Birchall since her husband Peter died in January 1999.
"During the dark times following Peter's death Petra was always there. She needed me and I needed her," said 48-year-old Mrs Birchall, from Ladywood Road, Old Hall,
"I began rebuilding my life and thanks to Petra I was able to travel to college to gain a number of qualifications. I graduated as a teacher in the summer of 2003 and began work six weeks later.
"Because of the confidence and mobility Petra has given me I have gained friends and live life to the full. Petra is my lifeline."
Cathy has had Petra since 1997. The dog gave her a new lease of life after she had spent six years being guided round by her husband Peter.
When Peter became ill, Petra led Mrs Birchall to visit him in hospital.
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