GUIDE Dogs Pembrokeshire has said a fond farewell to volunteer Steph Gentry, who is heading back home to the USA after four years in the area. Members organised a lunch in Trefloyne Manor, Tenby, to mark her birthday and thank her for supporting the group.

Although she was new to the area, Steph made lots of friends and became a regular helper on the Guide Dogs stall at Saundersfoot Harbour. She was an enthusiastic cheerleader when her husband Kyle, the general manager at Valero in Pembroke, took part in the 2025 New Year’s Day Swim, raising more than £500 for Guide Dogs.

Steph recalled: "It was a chilly day for a swim, but the rain and the wind held off. The kids enjoyed cheering Kyle on, especially knowing that it was for such a great cause."

Steph continued: "We can see and understand what a difference the Guide Dogs organisation makes in the lives of those with sight loss. Any contribution we can make, no matter how small, we strive to do so. It was such a fun event to be a part of as well."

Steph added: “I am really going to miss my Guide Dogs family. They made Saundersfoot feel like home.”

Eva Rich, organiser of Guide Dogs Pembrokeshire, said: “Steph is a truly lovely person and has been a great help to me. She arrived in Wales during a wet winter not knowing anyone and leaves having made so many friends. I was so grateful to her for exercising my last guide dog, Nancy, who is now happily retired. We wish her all the best for her new life in Texas.”

If, like Steph, you’re new to the area and would like to make friends, pop along and meet Guide Dogs Pembrokeshire at their coffee morning in the Harbwr Bar, Saundersfoot, from 10am to 12 noon on November 11.