Ashley Leeds

Our first puppy is now working for a guy in the South West. He has transformed the life of this vision-impaired individual, which is why we are Puppy Walkers. My family and I are taking in our second Labrador/Retriever cross Puppy to socialise and train ready for Guide Dog training in 12 months time. He will live with us while we ensure he learns all the skills that will prepare him for his advanced training. Once he has passed all of that he will go to a person with little or no sight and… Show more

Our first puppy is now working for a guy in the South West. He has transformed the life of this vision-impaired individual, which is why we are Puppy Walkers. My family and I are taking in our second Labrador/Retriever cross Puppy to socialise and train ready for Guide Dog training in 12 months time. He will live with us while we ensure he learns all the skills that will prepare him for his advanced training. Once he has passed all of that he will go to a person with little or no sight and transform their life too. It is hard work as the training is intense, inclusive and 24/7 but jolly rewarding and great to have a new puppy every year. Yes we do get attached, but it's a small price to pay. Show less

In 1999 the Village council wanted to set something up to mark the Millennium in the village of Lapford. I was a founder member and Chairman of the committee set up to mark celebrations. Amongst the projects that were set up to commemorate the year 2000 was a village newsletter which is still running and Lapstock, an annual music festival which ran successfully until the lockdowns during the pandemic.  This was a great place to learn how to motivate people and aim for the stars.  I look back… Show more

In 1999 the Village council wanted to set something up to mark the Millennium in the village of Lapford. I was a founder member and Chairman of the committee set up to mark celebrations. Amongst the projects that were set up to commemorate the year 2000 was a village newsletter which is still running and Lapstock, an annual music festival which ran successfully until the lockdowns during the pandemic.  This was a great place to learn how to motivate people and aim for the stars.  I look back fondly on my time with the lovely people of Lapford. Show less

With a young family at the time, I wanted to be involved with helping the community with extracurricular activities and soon became very involved with the local youth club. At the time the building was run down and didn't offer a lot of outside space. I rallied the troops and we managed to attract Lottery funding to bring the building up to standard. We did all kinds of community events and it was an honour to work with the youth of the village.