A blind woman is preparing to walk across the Severn Bridge from Bath to Cardiff this September to raise funds for Guide Dogs Cymru.
Nicki Cockburn will cross the bridge as part of a 70-mile trek from Bath to Cardiff, where she now lives.
She will be accompanied on the six-day walk by Guide Dogs community fundraiser, Frank Greig.
Nicki, 38, is aiming to raise more than £5,000 for the charity, which will allow her to name a guide dog puppy after her late father, John.
She said guide dogs had played a huge part in her life so far.
“It’s almost 20 years since I had my first guide dog, Vale,” said Nicki. “Getting her was like finding the key to a door which had always been locked.
“She allowed me to gain more independence and open the door to many new challenges and adventures.”
When Vale retired and new dog Chelsea took her place, Nicki decided to mark the occasion by walking 190 miles from Port Vale Football Club to Stamford Bridge, the home of Premier League side Chelsea.
“I raised £11,500, enough to name two guide dog puppies,” she said.
Last summer, it was Chelsea’s time to retire, and Nicki began training with a young yellow Labrador, James.
“People tell me he’s a gorgeous-looking dog,” said Nicki. “I reply that he’s got the looks and I’ve got the brains!”
Her upcoming walk acknowledges the contribution both Chelsea and James have made to her life.
“I’m walking from Chelsea Road Café in Bath to James Street, Cardiff Bay,” Nicki said. “It will be just as difficult as the last walk, although a little shorter. But this time I have the added challenge of crossing the Severn Bridge!
“I hope I can raise enough to name a guide dog puppy. What better way could I honour Dad’s memory than by giving another person the freedom, independence and confidence my wonderful dogs have given me?”
Nicki’s walk will take place from 4th – 9th September.
To sponsor Nicki, visit: www.justgiving.com/ChelseaTwoJames.