A HEREFORDSHIRE guide dog is in the running to be named Guide Dog of the Year 2007.

Robbie, who lives with his owner Tony Doverman in Hereford, was nominated for the award because of the independence he has brought to Tony, who had become unhappy and felt very isolated after losing his sight. Tony now finds everyday life much less of a challenge, he has found a true life-line and a new best friend.

This years competition has been launched by BBC Breakfast, whose viewers will be invited to vote for the winning dogs in three different categories.

Vicky Bell of Guide Dogs said: "We're very pleased that BBC Breakfast is championing our Guide Dog of the Year awards this year. Viewers will gain a fascinating insight into the enormous difference these dogs make to the lives of their visually-impaired owners.

"Although all 4,600 of our dogs are extraordinary in their own right, these awards will recognise some of those that are truly outstanding, having completely changed the life of their owner, performed a heroic act or gone above and beyond the call of duty in their amazing work."

The winner will be announced at a ceremony at the Kennel Club in London on September 6. In the meantime local people are being invited to nominate any other guide dogs they know for the award by visiting the Guide Dogs website, www.guidedogs.org.uk/awards. The closing date for nominations is July 5.