A NATIONAL survey has revealed that 12 per cent of restaurants and pubs are breaking the law by refusing to accept guide dogs.

The survey, commissioned by The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association, was part of its Access for All campaign. The campaign, launched during Guide Dog Week, aims to ensure guide dog owners enjoy equal rights and access to restaurant and pubs.

Of 500 restaurants, food-serving pubs and bistros contacted for the survey, 62 refused to accept a guide dog owner with their dog. Geraldine Peacock, Guide Dogs' chief executive, said: "Guide Dog Week provides us with the opportunity to inform and educate the pub and restaurant trade."