LEWISHAM Olympian James Ellington raced guide dog puppies around the Ladywell Arena as they tested out the venue for the blind.

The member of Team GB passed a relay baton to ‘Team GD’ – Team Guide Dogs - to mark the end of a UK tour for the pups in training during Guide Dogs Week.

News Shopper: Olympic athlete James Ellington races guide dog puppies at Ladywell Arena

The British 200m champion, who was born in Lewisham, welcomed the pioneering team of dogs as they tried out accessibility for the partially sighted at iconic venues in UK.

News Shopper: Olympic athlete James Ellington races guide dog puppies at Ladywell Arena

The former Forest Hill School pupil said: “I’m really excited to be involved in Guide Dogs Week 2013.

“Mobility and the freedom of movement are my lifeblood, and I’m keen for everyone to be able to enjoy access to all wherever they want to go in life.

“I look forward to welcoming Team GD to my home ground and playing my part in a very different style of relay. I hope everyone will join me and Stand Out for Guide Dogs this year!”

The tour visited 50 venues in 30 days ahead of Guide Dogs Week October 5 to October 13. To find out more visit guidedogs.org.uk/gdweek2013