THE region's branches of the RSPCA have been named the most hard-working in the country.

More than 13,500 unwanted animals were found homes by the charity in the past year.

Figures just published reveal that, on average, 37 abandoned or ill-treated animals are found new owners every day - 21 per cent of the total number of animals rehomed nationally by the society.

Most of the animals that passed through the 24 branches of the RSPCA in the North-East and Yorkshire, were neutered and microchipped.

The charity's regional manager, Alan Wolinski, said: "The release of these figures just goes to show how hard the RSPCA works in this region to promote animal welfare.

"These figures are staggering, especially when you consider that the majority of these branches are made up only of volunteers, people who year after year invest time and effort into helping animals."

The results of the study come weeks after the region was again described as the worst in the country for animal cruelty.

The Northern Echo launched its Animal Watch campaign in response to the unwanted record the area has had for the past four years.