By Jack McKeown

WHEN BROUGHTY Ferry woman Mhairi Thurston learned five years ago that she was to lose her sight she felt like the bottom had fallen out of her world.

Mhairi (43) had to give up her job as a primary teacher at Dundee High School after 14 years.

She now has just 5% of her vision left and even that will go over the next few years.

However, just over a year ago Wanda, a two-year-old labrador-retriever cross, came into her life and things began to get better.

Yesterday that healing process was complete for Mhairi, when Wanda won the first UK Guide Dog of the Year award in London.

Mhairi travelled down for the ceremony with husband Allen and their three children, Christina (8) Kathryn (7) and Caroline (4). Wanda, of course, travelled with them by plane, tube and train.

Speaking from her home last night, a delighted Mhairi said, “There were three categories—life changing dog, tailor made dog and heroic dog.”

Mhairi added, “Wanda won tailor-made dog and then went on to win the overall prize for best guide dog.

“I’m delighted because Wanda was just perfect for our family. She puts up with so much above and beyond her training.”

Before Wanda came along Mhairi was afraid to leave her home, but now her guide dog helps take the children to school and Mhairi herself can enjoy a full and active life.

“I was leading a normal life up till about five years ago when I was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa which basically means your retina is about to give up the ghost.

“It was a real shock and it’s been quite a journey from rock bottom to getting my guide dog, and Wanda winning dog of the year has really made it for me.

“I’m absolutely delighted with her. She’s an incredibly patient dog, especially around children. She is absolutely unflappable.”