AN animal charity in Darlington is appealing for dog lovers to open their hearts and cupboards to help boost an urgent appeal.

Dogs Trust Darlington is looking for donations of unwanted items – from household ornaments and clothes to electrical items and DVDs.

Donations will go on sale in the charity’s shop in Skinnergate, Darlington,  proceeds going to help care for the dogs at its rehoming centre in Sadberge.

Shop manager Gary Hird said: “Many of the dogs at our rehoming centre have not had the best of starts in life and the funds raised through the sale of items in the shop ensure they receive the best level of care possible while looking for their new home.”

Donations can be left at the shop between 9.30am and 5pm Monday to Saturday.

For more information, call 01325-481614.