From Pam Newby, Exeter 383654, June 22,2007

Staff at Devon County Council's customer service centre, MyDevon, have marked the first anniversary of the centre's opening by raising more than £500 for the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association.

The staff chose the charity as their team includes a guide dog. Golden Labrador Draco accompanies his handler, Darren Westlake, to work every day.

All the staff took part in the fundraising activities which included a barbeque, dress down day, name a puppy cuddly toy competition, a plant sale, a prize draw and Eurovision song contest and Grand National sweepstakes.

A cheque for £520 was presented to the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association's local fundraising co-ordinator Geraldine Tracey by one of the main organisers of the events, Pat Gordon.

The cheque handover was attended by the Chairman of Devon County Council, Cllr Brenda Taylor, and local County Councillor Des Hannon who is also the Executive Member for Corporate Performance.

Cllr Hannon said: "I'm really impressed by the huge effort MyDevon staff have already put into fundraising for this excellent cause.

"MyDevon has been rated top of the tree in two recent independent surveys, but what pleases me most is the consistent comments I get from Devon people. They all tell me that MyDevon staff really show they care. Our staff know they're working for the people of their own county - and that shines through in friendly, efficient service."

Note to Editors:

Cllr Hannon can be contacted on 01884 253627.