PEOPLE in Newport have been paying tribute to a much-loved guide dog whose owner has raised thousands of pounds for charity.

Yalena was a familiar figure at Guide Dog events in Gwent with her owner Hilary Lester, who is registered blind.

The golden Labrador retriever was recently diagnosed with inoperable cancer and died last Thursday.

Ms Lester said: “I had Yalena in 2010 after several years of getting about using a long cane. It was a huge learning curve for us both, but in the end we had the perfect partnership. She was sociable and lively, and we were a good match.”

Ms Lester said highlights of their time together include being on television and at the Senedd.

“She even helped to form a picket line against the closure of Handpost Library,” she said.

A spokeswoman for Guide Dogs Cymru said Yalena was a "bouncy, affectionate character".

She said: "She was a much-loved part of the Newport fundraising group and, just as importantly, helped her owner to raise the profile of Guide Dogs throughout the area.”

Ms Lester said there is a waiting list for guide dogs in Wales, but that she hopes it won’t be too long before a dog comes along that is right for her.

If you knew Yalena, and would like to make a donation in her memory, contact Guide Dogs Cymru on 0345 143 0195.