THREE dogs are desperate to find loving homes this Christmas instead of spending the festive season in refuge kennels.

Toffee, Kerry and Suzie are all long-term residents at the Dogs Trust Darlington Rehoming Centre, in Sadberge, and staff hope they will be able to enjoying the December festivities with new families.

A spokeswoman for the centre said: "They are all great dogs who really deserve to be in new homes by Christmas.

"They all have lots of love to give and are just waiting for the right owners to come along."

Kerry, a 12-year-old Staffordshire bull terrier, is the oldest of the trio and staff hate to think of her spending her final years at the centre. She would be better in an adult environment.

Suzie is a loyal and affectionate three-year-old border collie, who loves going for walks and playing ball.

Toffee, a handsome cream lurcher, is a favourite with staff and dog walkers at the centre, but keeps being overlooked. He is very friendly and would be a great addition to any household where he would need to be the only dog.

The centre is open every day, except Tuesdays, between noon and 4pm, until December 19.

Anyone interested in one of the dogs can call (01325) 333114, visit the website www.dogstrust.org.uk, or call at the centre.

l Border cross collies Buster and Maggie are looking for a loving home.

Three-year-old bitch Maggie and her two-year-old canine friend are currently in the care of the National Animal Sanctuary Support League in Darlington.

Both have been spayed, neutered and micro-chipped, and Pauline Wilson, of the National Animal Sanctuary Support League, said: "They are great dogs and they'll make lovely family pets."

Anyone interested in offering either of the dogs a home can contact Ms Wilson on (01325) 321855 or 07748 268822.