Newfoundland Tsuki saving Wayne Clift during their latest Isle of Wight visit. Picture by Robin Crossley.
NEWFOUNDLAND dogs are as important for life saving as they are loveable and their abilities on the water were tested to the full on the River Medina.
The Newfound Friends returned to the Isle of Wight on Sunday to support the Earl Mountbatten Hospice.
A team of 11 Newfoundland dogs of Bristol-based The Newfound Friends showed just why they are the only accredited life-saving dog, by demonstrating rescues at The Folly Inn, Whippingham.
Fifteen volunteers took to the water and were hauled to safety, watched by a large crowd of people. All participants received a certificate.
Some of the participants were employees of the new Co-op Funeral Care.
It is the fourth time the group has come to the Island to raise funds for the hospice and they hoped the event will raise at least £600.
The event included a raffle. One of the prizes was a hamper donated by Co-op Funeral Care.
Dani Johnson, the hospice’s events fundraiser, said: "It was lots of fun but the event also showed just how important Newfoundlands are as life-savers. We hope to hold another similar event next year."
Reporter: jonm@iwcpmail.co.uk