In spite of being partially sighted, she was able to enjoy a fairly normal childhood and, on achieving a catering qualification, worked as a cook.

When we left for our honeymoon in Eastbourne, I remember standing in Victoria station and feeling panicked. What was so refreshing about Jill’s advice was its simplicity and practicality Many listeners told us that they were worried about scalding themselves when making themselves a cup of tea. By constantly focusing on the difficulties she encountered at every stage of her life and how to overcome them, the author points the way ahead to all those in a similar position. August 2010 - Jill Allen-King MBE was interviewed on The Michael Ball Show, ITV 1, about her book 'Just Jill'.In the first few years, I was determined to prove that a blind person could and should bring up a child. March 2011 - Jill Allen-King OBE signed copies of her book 'Just Jill' at Clacton Library, Clacton on Sea.

Nevertheless Jill acquitted herself well and went on to college to study catering, whence she ended up cooking for Shell and the directors of Gallagher's, the cigarette manufacturers, in the City of London. Pete Osborne, chief operations officer, also faces being without a dog when his companion Nyle retires. If you enjoy a heart warming read or you have any interest in blind issues this is the book for you. Jill’s autobiography charts her journey from partially sighted child to totally blind adult and beyond, a process of readjusting and learning through grit and determination and then using her knowledge and experience to do everything in her power to help others and to campaign for reforms to secure a safer, fairer and more disability-aware environment. Next came Quella, “a stately dog and so calm”, who was at the altar with her when she married Alvin; then Lady – the “perfect” guide dog.Pioneering activist has spent her life campaigning on behalf of other blind and partially-sighted people, with remarkable results. Building on her own experiences and frustrations she has become a powerful and persistent advocate for blind people – and others with disabilities - across a wide range of issues from benefit entitlements to transport. Through this book, Jill will be able to share that with many other people who like her would benefit from the mobility and companionship that a guide dog brings.

September 2010 - Jill Allen-King MBE signed copies of her book 'Just Jill' at Waterstone's, Bury St Edmunds. Over the years she has made literally hundreds of broadcasts, given hundreds of talks to schools and church groups, etc. But the book is more than just an autobiography or an encouragement to others in Jill’s position to do likewise. I was thrilled to bits and on our first day, I set off with Topsy to take Jacqueline to the library.I related really well to some of the more day to day issues raised and had to laugh out loud at some of the situations I have been in myself.