A RHYL fundraising group who hit their £5000 target allowing them to train a puppy for the blind are celebrating after receiving a certificate showcasing that their sponsored canine had been born.

Steve Evans, founder of Belief, has carried out a number of fundraising activities with members since he started his group last year including two zip wire challenges, a bike ride, a six hour marathon ride around Marsh Tracks, three walks up Snowdon, a sponsored dog walk, a blindmans pub crawl and a Dads v Lads football match.

Mr Evans admitted that he was “over the moon” when he heard that Belief had reached their goal and had a “tear in his eye” when he received the photo of the puppy - who has been named Emrys.

Mr Evans, of Meliden, said: “Emrys is a Golden Retriever cross - labrador. He is currently with his puppy walker in Mold. He is very cute and I don’t usually admit things like this, but when I saw his picture I had a small tear in my eye.

“We can’t witness any of his training sadly but I am going to arrange a meeting which I am very much looking forward too. I am very proud of what Belief has achieved. We have grown so much; we started off with six members and we now have 30. We carry out our meetings in three different pubs - many of which are involved in our fundraising.

“These fantastic dogs give people the sight they need to live as normal life as possible and allows them to get out an about.

“A simple thank you doesn’t seem enough to those who have been involved in raising the £5000, but it comes from the bottom of my heart.”

Belief is currently seeking new fundraising challenges. For those who have any ideas or would like to join the group, telephone Steve on 07840567112.