NOT every member of the House of Commons can look forward to a retirement of dog biscuits and a walk on the Bolton moors.

But for 10-year-old Lucy, David Blunkett's guidedog, more than eight years of loyal service finally came to an end yesterday.

The Home Secretary bade farewell to his curly-coated retriever cross in an emotional final parting before she travelled to a retirement home -- in Bolton.

She will be staying with her new owner, Val Woolrich from the local branch of the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association.

"For me its going to be a terrific wrench," said Mr Blunkett, whose new Bolton-trained guide dog is called Sadie.