A REHOMING centre for greyhounds, which will be the first of its kind in the North-East, will open in Wear Valley next month.

The Hollin Hall Greyhound Rehoming Centre has been set up to re-train former racing greyhounds for domestic life at Fir Tree Kennels, in Crook.

Managed by professional greyhound trainer Alison Waggott, the centre is funded by Brough Park and Sunderland greyhound stadiums and will house up to 20 animals at any time.

At the same time, suitable homes in the community will be sought for the dogs. Already, the centre has found homes for more than 25 greyhounds in the North-East.

Hylton Marrs, sales and marketing manager for Brough Park stadium, said there were several reasons why people should consider taking in greyhounds.

He said: "They are extremely gentle and loving, not at all fierce. They are very adaptable to the home environment. They are couch potatoes and do not take a lot of exercise each day.

"They can adapt to living with other animals, even cats. They are very clean dogs and take quickly to a toilet routine."

The centre will be officially opened on December 21 by Lord David Lipsey, chairman of the British Greyhound Racing Board.