AN ANIMAL rescue service run by Stroud volunteers has helped save two dogs abandoned in Spain.

Starfish Dog Rescue, a newly formed not-for-profit organisation, arranged for the canine duo Fiona and Sophia to be brought over to the UK last week.

The organisation’s founder Gilly Minnican decided to rescue the pair from kennels in the Spanish town of Mazarron after falling in love with them while on holiday there earlier this year.

"It is heartbreaking that so many dogs with no problems are forced to live in kennels out there year after year," she said.

"Many of the dogs are dumped by the English and they have no chance of being rehomed because they are not puppies or pedigrees.

"Fiona and Sophia stole my heart so I decided to raise the funds to bring them back."

Gilly and her friend Caren Clark, who both live in Brownshill, will now foster Fiona and Sophia before trying to find a permanent home for them.

Over the last seven years Gilly has worked as a volunteer, helping to foster as well as rehome numerous cats and dogs.

Recently, she decided to set-up Starfish Dog Rescue so she could build on her work.

In the last month alone, the organisation, which receives free food from Stroud Farm Services, has rehomed five kittens, four dogs, one adult cat and a horse.

"Any animals we take on are placed in foster homes so they can be thoroughly assessed before rehoming," she said.

"Our foster carers are experienced dog lovers and they often have children, chickens and cats of their own."

For more information about Starfish Dog Rescue visit their Facebook page.

Anyone interested in lending a helping hand with fostering or fundraising should contact Gilly on 07980 934164.