A DOGS Trust charity shop has been given a new lease of life after undergoing a store refurbishment and reopening to shoppers.

The charity shop in Darlington’s Skinnergate was closed in March for staff to carry out a spring clean and rearrange the layout of the retail space.

One-year-old whippet, Paul, was the first pup through the doors of the revamped shop as part of a day trip with canine carers from Dogs Trust Darlington’s Sadberge site.

Gary Hird, manager of Dogs Trust’s charity shop in Darlington, said: “We are thrilled to unveil the new layout of the shop and are calling on local dog lovers to donate any pre-loved items to help us fill the newly refurbished shelves.

“We are looking for donations of unwanted items from household ornaments and clothing to electrical goods and DVDs.

“All proceeds from sales go towards helping dogs, like Paul, who are in the care of Dogs Trust so any funds received will help rescue dogs of all shapes and sizes enjoy some home comforts as they await loving homes of their own.”

Donations can be made in-store or for more information, call 01325-481614.