Woking business owner Paul Hellewell, who runs oven cleaning service Ovenu Woking, is celebrating a “paw-some” milestone after Guide Dogs puppy Ralph he sponsored officially graduated into life-changing service.

The Golden Retriever-Labrador cross has been successfully matched with a visually impaired person after many months of training, marking the start of an exciting new team.

Paul, who began as an oven technician in 2008 before taking over the business in 2012, said: “I’m really pleased to hear Ralph is now a fully trained guide dog. It’s great to know he’s out there making a real difference to someone’s life, helping them live more independently and confidently. Supporting Guide Dogs is a fantastic way to give something back, and I’m proud to have played a part in his journey.”

Trainer Leonie, who supported Ralph through the final stages of his development, added: “Ralph has already had a massive impact on his new owner’s life. They’ve bonded beautifully and are forming a strong partnership built on trust and teamwork.”

Ovenu franchisees began sponsoring Ralph through the Guide Dogs ‘Name a Puppy’ scheme, helping to support the journey from playful puppy to fully trained working dog.

A spokesperson for Guide Dogs said: “Such generous support has made a real difference, not just to Ralph’s journey, but now also to the person whose life he’s helping transform.”

Ovenu Woking covers the GU21-24 postcodes, including Woking, Knaphill, Chobham, Pirbright, Ripley, Bisley and surrounding areas.

Paul added that seeing Ralph graduate was the “perfect end to the journey”, saying he hopes it will inspire more local businesses to get involved, describing it as a small step that leads to life-changing impact for someone else.