MPs have been given stars on Guide Dogs’ Walk of Fame for supporting the charity’s campaign to stop cars parking on pavements.

Leeds North West MP Greg Mulholland and Pudsey MP Stuart Andrew were thanked for their support when they attended a Guide Dogs’ event at the Houses of Parliament on June 10.

The charity believes people with sight loss are being put in danger by vehicles parked on pavements and it is calling for a new law to stop the practice.

The event, hosted by Lord Holmes of Richmond, highlighted the problems faced daily by guide dog owners who are being forced to walk into the road to avoid cars blocking their path.

Pavement parking is already an offence in London, but the rules in the rest of the country are complex and patchy, leaving drivers uncertain of where they can and cannot park. Guide Dogs is calling for the introduction of comprehensive laws across the UK, which will outlaw pavement parking, but allow local councils to grant an exemption in areas where it is unavoidable.

Mr Mulholland said: "This is a real problem and one that car owners need to properly consider. Pavement parking is already an offence in London and I do think other cities, including Leeds, should follow suit. This is a welcome campaign from The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association and I hope ministers will bring forward the necessary legislation."

Mr Andrew said: “I am pleased to support the Guide Dogs campaign on pavement parking. Steps do need to be taken to ensure that our high streets are not always blighted by cars on pavements. However, councils should have the ability to allow pavement parking where it is unavoidable.”

James White, Campaigns Manager for Guide Dogs, said: "Cars parked on pavements blight the lives of people living with sight loss and other vulnerable road users including wheelchair users and parents with buggies or prams.

"Imagine how frightening it must be to step out into a busy road when you can't see on-coming traffic, or you have your young child with you. We want to stop people from being forced into the road and we call on all parties to support a new law on pavement parking."