The Portsmouth-based company raised the cash as part of an innovative fleet contract and sponsorship arrangement with the charity.

Inchcape Fleet Solutions manages the charity's 520-strong fleet composed of around 340 company cars and 180 vans. As part of the deal the company donates a percentage of its annual management fee back to Guide Dogs, and also sponsors a puppy called Bart.

Now the company has held its first fund-raising day in aid of the charity. 

Numerous fund-raising activities were cooked up by staff on Friday 28 May including the directors – Terry Bartlett (managing director), David Graham (customer services director), Gary Woodcock (finance director) and Kerry Howard (HR director) – adopting fancy dress and hosting a lunchtime BBQ.

One of the highlights of the day was a Guide Dogs-themed assault course. Sponsored by tyre manufacturer Michelin, the "It's a Dogs' Life" event involved Inchcape Fleet Solutions' staff navigating the course in pairs with one person blindfolded and the other giving verbal instructors to enable navigation of the obstacles.

Guide Dogs showed its support for the day with presentations to Inchcape Fleet Solutions staff showing the journey of a guide dog from puppy to full-time walker and the importance of the organisation. In addition, employees were able to take part in blind walks and guide dog training, so enhancing their own personal awareness of blind and partially-sighted people and the role of a guide dog.

Guide Dogs also offered VIP passes in a bid to raise more funds.

Guide Dogs' business support manager Gordon Smith said: 'We receive no Government funding so are completely reliant on donations to continue the vital work we do. We are therefore tremendously grateful to Inchcape Fleet Solutions for all their support, not just as a result of this special fundraising day, which was fantastic, but in helping us spend all funds raised wisely throughout the year. The enthusiasm and commitment of the staff continues to be overwhelming and inspiring.'