TWO friends made redundant by an animal charity have got their careers back on the leash by launching their own dog grooming salon.

Richard Kerridge and Lee Lennard, who lost their jobs when Guide Dogs for the Blind closed its Middlesbrough training centre, have turned adversity into opportunity by launching Perfect Paws, at 111 Parkgate, Darlington.

Richard, 22, and Lee, 26, worked for the charity for a total of 14 years, caring for, and grooming hundreds of dogs during the early stages of their training.

"We enjoy working with animals and were determined that the skills and knowledge we had gained would not go to waste," said Richard.

"Modern-day pet owners love to lavish attention on their pets but, with today's hectic lifestyles, they do not want all the hassle of grooming - why do it yourself when there is a professional service, with all the latest grooming equipment?