TWO guide dogs will be named Pippil and Fil after youngsters dug deep to raise £5,000 towards their care.

Pupils at Bolton School Boys' Division raised the money over the last 12 months — organising fun runs and a 'money box' challenge.

To encourage them with their efforts, the school even had a visit from the Guide Dogs charity and students were lucky enough to meet a guide dog puppy, a training dog and a fully qualified guide dog Nimmo with his owner Steve Cross.

Emma Allen-Taylor, Engagement Officer for Guide Dogs said, “We are extremely grateful to Bolton School for raising enough money to name two puppies. Pippin and Fil will become life changers in the future by helping blind and partially sighted people to enjoy greater freedom and mobility.”

The two puppies — Pippin and Fil — are now being walked by volunteers and boys at the school will soon get to meet the two pups they named.

Christine Edge from Bolton School said: “Working with Guide Dogs has been a pleasure. Our connection stands the test of time as The Leverhulme Trust has always been a key supporter of this charity so it is particularly poignant that, as we celebrate our founding by Lord Leverhulme, we are able to make such a significant contribution.”

It is not only the boys who have been helping the charity.

Pupils at the girls' division raised more than £9,000 over for Guide Dogs over the last seven years — and have named three puppies.

To find out more about naming a puppy contact Guide Dogs, Manchester at 0845 372 7409 or email Manchester@guidedogs.org.uk