THOUSANDS of unwanted, abandoned and ill-treated animals were found new homes last year by RSPCA branches in the region.

The charity rehoused 935 dogs, 1,858 cats and 489 other animals in 2003. It gave almost 1,500 animals veterinary treatment, microchipp-ed 2,805 and neutered 4,050.

The RSPCA's Great Ayton centre, in North Yorkshire, found homes for 297 dogs, 280 cats and 420 other animals.

Felledge Equine Centre, in Chester Moor, near Chester-le-Street, County Durham, found homes for 19 horses.

A spokesman said: "The release of these figures just goes to show how hard the RSPCA works in this region to promote animal welfare."

The charity will celebrate RSPCA Week next week with a series of events, including the Durham and District Pet Dog Show from 2pm on Sunday, May 2, at Deerness Boarding Kennels, Langley Moor, County Durham.