AN animal lover who has given a home to hundreds of cats has rescued a stray dog while on holiday in Corfu.

Barbara Sharp, 61, of Green Lane, Acomb, runs a Cats Protection League shelter with usually dozens of the animals under her care.

In Corfu she noticed many stray dogs on the beach and learned from locals that they would almost certainly die at the end of the holiday season. She said: "A lot of dogs live rough on the beach. Most of them are either poisoned or starve to death once the tourists leave, so I decided to bring one home."

Barbara befriended a mongrel dog she now calls Sunny, because of his lovely nature, and the fact he was found exhausted in the sun.

After consulting a local vet she decided to bring him back to England. Strict quarantine rules mean that he has had to be microchipped and his blood samples have been sent to England. Barbara is appealing for donations to help her raise £1,700 in vet fees and other expenses.

If you would like to help Barbara telephone 01904 780260. Any money left over will be given to a dog rescue organisation which helps canines in Corfu.

PICTURE: Sunny: rescued