Lancaster Priory carol service to raise funds for Canine Partners
Assistance dogs get in the festive spirit - Credit: Archant
Christmas carol service aims for a £20,000 boost to charity for disabled people
The dogs are capable of transforming the lives of disabled people - Credit: Archant
It’s a Christmas carol service with a difference – and it’s all in a good cause that aims to help people struggling to cope with a range of disabilities.
The service takes place at 6.30pm on December 6 when The Lancaster Priory will be welcoming some unusual four-legged guests.
These dogs are part of the charity known as Canine Partners, an organisation which raises money to buy and train remarkably talented assistance dogs that make life so much easier for disabled people.
It is being organised by charity supporter Sarah Cleaver, who said: ‘It is our ambition to fill the Priory and to raise £20,000 which would fund the cost of a Canine Partner from a puppy through to retirement when it’s 12 years old.
Around 20,000 is needed to support a dog during its 12 year working career - Credit: Archant
‘The puppy will be named Lancaster after the local support should we reach our target.
‘The dogs are trained to perform more than 100 tasks for their disabled partners. Things that you and I take for granted – opening and closing doors, picking up dropped items, getting milk out of the fridge, loading and unloading the washing machine, pressing lift and pedestrian crossing buttons, fetching help in an emergency, even removing a card and cash from an ATM Machine.
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‘In assisting with these tasks the Canine Partner gives confidence, freedom and independence to be able to venture out of the house; essentially giving a life back.’
The service will include a demonstration showing a ‘Day in the Life of a Canine Partner’ by the charity’s demonstration team. During the evening, two dogs will be showing the amazing everyday tasks they are able to do.
‘There will also be involvement from the Priory Choir, The Lancaster Royal Grammar School Choir and Christchurch Primary School, and the charity is currently talking to various celebrities who we hope will be able to do a reading or two,’ said Sarah.
Tickets are now on sale at £15 (Adult) and £5 (child under 16) via www.caninepartners.org.uk/northwestcarols. The price includes a glass of wine or soft drink and a mince pie.
