THE Hope animal shelter, which needs to raise funds to expand, is looking for the owner of a microchipped dog.

Tarki, believed to be aged about four, was dumped in the yard of the sanctuary at Loftus, near Saltburn, and all attempts by volunteers to find its owner have failed.

Cliff Spedding, from the sanctuary, said the sandy coloured mongrel, with a gentle temperament, seemed to be well cared for.

"The microchip told us who the owner was and where she lived, in Corporation Road, Redcar, but when we looked into it, it seems she had moved address," he said.

"So we don't know if Tarki is a stray that someone found, or whether the owner has gone on holiday.

"We would like anyone with information to get in touch."

Volunteers at the shelter, which takes in any animals, from dogs, cats and rabbits, to goats and seagulls, are holding a tombola from 10am today at Whitby Bandstand. Money raised will go towards creating more accommodation space for animals and may also go towards the creation of an office and learning centre.

Anyone wishing to make a donation to the sanctuary is asked to send a cheque made payable to Hope Animal Shelter, to 1 White Cliff Cottage, Loftus, TS13 4AN.

People with information about Tarki should call Mr Spedding on (07957) 472659.