A VETERINARY nurse is taking part in the Great North Run blindfolded to raise money for Guide Dogs.

Victoria Howarth, a senior nurse at Prince Bishop Veterinary Hospital in Leadgate, near Consett, will be running the last five miles of the world’s biggest half marathon blindfolded.

The 33-year-old, who has completed the event once before, said: “We all take our sight for granted but as a veterinary nurse I see first-hand the freedom and independence that guide-dogs give to their owners.

“I really wanted to do something to highlight this whilst raising money for a good cause.

“I’ve done a couple of practice runs blind-folded, and I have found it challenging but I’m glad that my sister will be there to help me. The race is just 20 days before my wedding, so the last thing I want to do is fall flat on my face.”

She will be guided by her sister Louise Layfield, 37, to help her get across the finish line.

She is hoping to raise £500 for Guide Dogs for the Blind.

To sponsor them www.justgiving.com/fundraising/victoria-howarth-louise-layfield.