HEARING how a guide dog changed Alan Fletcher’s life inspired a schoolgirl to get typing on her computer.

Maria Skevi, 10, was asked to write a story for young children as part of her school work and after meeting the Swindon Guide Dogs chairman, she knew what she wanted to write about.

The Grange Junior School pupil, who lives in Lower Stratton, presented a copy of the book to Alan after she had finished and he said he had a tear in his eye when he heard her work.

“It was a project we were doing for school and it just came in my head,” said Maria.

“We had to design a picture book for children aged five and under. I met Alan through my aunty, Carol Maison, and we visited his house.

“We went round to his house and asked him questions about how he became blind. I was a bit nervous but he was really nice.

“It was interesting to hear what he had to say, he told me about how his guide dog, Joy, had helped him. Joy is really cute.”

The story, which is called How Guide Dogs Brought Joy To Alan, explains how Alan became blind, details about training and fundraising for guide dogs, and how Joy changed Alan’s life.

Alan retired from the BMW Plant in 2005, where he worked for 36 years, after his sight deteriorated due to retinal dystrophy.

He said he was impressed by Maria’s questions and writing abilities.

“When it was finished Maria brought it around to me and read what she had written and described what was on each page,” he said.

“It was really moving for me to hear a 10-year-old talking about me, my guide dog Joy and the charity with real passion and clarity.

“It is an excellent piece of work, especially by someone so young.”

Maria was given an award at school for her work. Maria’s mother Patsy said: “The book has been printed out and Alan has a copy and I have a copy. The book was aimed at children aged five and under. It was a really good story.”

For information about Swindon Guide Dogs visit www.guidedogs.org.uk. To look after a guide dog email volunteer@ guidedogs.org.uk.