PARK visitors could ‘hug a hound’ as part of a meet and greet event organised by a greyhound rescue charity.

Ivan, Flint, Mac, Merlin, Bridie and Francesca greeted visitors to Stewart Park, Middlesbrough, on a day bathed in bright sunshine.

Teesside charity Grace, which takes greyhounds and lurchers into foster homes and helps permanently re-home them, regularly holds the meet and greets to raise awareness of its work and raise funds to pay for vet bills.

Co-ordinator Tracy Cook said prospective new owners were subject to careful checks and also received a home visit.

They also receive a lifestyle talk so that they can be appropriately matched with an animal.

Ms Cook said: “Taking a dog into your life is a big commitment. One of our hounds today is 14 months old and they can live for 15 or 16 years.”

For more information about Grace visit www.grace-greyhoundrescue.co.uk