Four MSPs experienced first-hand the importance of guide dogs when they were blindfolded for an event to mark Guide Dog Week.

The MSPs met at the committee chambers building in Edinburgh before making their way across George IV Bridge blindfolded and assisted by guide dogs and their trainers. They then found their way into the parliament restaurant for lunch.

Kate MacLean, convener of the Equal Opportunities Committee and one of those taking part, said the MSPs wanted to help encourage pubs and restaurants to be guide dog friendly.

"People who rely on guide dogs currently experience problems with access to restaurants, pubs and other outlets that serve food. A voluntary code of practice would involve simply allowing room for guide dogs to sit with their owners and providing water for the dog.

"Our committee hopes that by highlighting the issue of access by using our very own parliament restaurant, other establishments will follow our positive example," said MacLean.

The event marked the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association's week-long campaign to highlight the importance of guide dogs and to ensure guide dog owners are able to gain equal access to restaurants and pubs.

Geraldine Peacock, chief executive of the association, said: "Guide Dog Week provides us with the opportunity to inform and educate the pub and restaurant trade. We are naturally delighted that 88 per cent of pubs and restaurants surveyed were happy to accept guide dogs. However, it still means 12 per cent are unaware of their legal responsibilities.

"Most of us cannot imagine how hurtful and embarrassing it is to be refused entry or even to be thrown out of a pub or restaurant. With Access for All, Guide Dogs hopes to persuade the minority who still practice prejudice to open their doors."