Dave Thomas The Autobiography. Former England International Dave Thomas is the first top level footballer to be registered blind and awarded a guide dog. Dave's astonishing positive approach to life, as he negotiates everyday tasks the rest of us take for granted, makes for an inspirational read. With the help of his Labrador guide dog, Hannah, Dave's magnificently coped with a catalogue of obstacles that began with a defining moment - the withdrawal of his driving licence and with it a good deal of his precious independence. All the core of the book is an incredibly likeable character with a refreshing honesty, rare in top level football.