RESCUE heroes have been given awards in recognition of their hard work for their four-legged friends.

Redcar MP Vera Baird was joined on Redcar beach, in east Cleveland, by dogs that have been helped by the Bedlington Terrier Rescue and Re-homing Team.

North-East co-ordinator Julie Oxbury, from Redcar, asked Ms Baird to present awards to four people in recognition of their work with the team.

One of them was Nicola Simon, who takes in stray and homeless terriers, which often arrive in a terrible state.

Ms Simon said: "Once we have given them a long, warm bath and some tender loving care, they brush up beautifully." The other supporters include Angela Gardener, from Marske, and John and Bev Ariss, from Loftus.

Ms Baird is the proud owner of a fluffy Bedlington terrier called Zack, who was found through the rescue team.

She said: "A dog can be a wonderful friend and companion and Zack never complains if I get home late. The work of the Bedlington terrier team is great and I am delighted that they have asked me to present the certificates."

Among the Bedlington Terriers at the event on Saturday were Dudley, Jasper, Molly, Misty and Dillon, who were joined by friends and family to celebrate the presentations.

To foster or adopt a Bedlington terrier, call Ms Oxbury on (01624) 485163.