EVERY dog has his day and for strays in the North-East theirs will not be long in arriving.

Animal-lovers have started to search for a site on which to open a sanctuary for unwanted pets - five years after launching an appeal.

Various fundraising events, collections, sponsorship and legacies left to Saltburn Animal Rescue Association (Sara) means the appeal has raised almost £200,000.

Rather than wait another five years to reach its £350,000 goal, the association will consider taking out a mortgage if it can find a suitable site now.

Sara has been registered on the books of local estate agents.

Fundraiser Pauline Matson said: "We are seeking to buy land in east Cleveland or the surrounding area with a view to establishing an animal sanctuary.

"We are looking for approximately five to eight acres, preferably with easy access and well away from residential areas.''

She said redundant farmland with outbuildings would be ideal.

"We have foster homes at the moment, which are not easy to come by," said Mrs Matson.

"Now, we feel we can take that step of taking out a mortgage and get something up and running, rather than wait more years.

"We have a lot of public support and respect. A lot of people appreciate what we are doing and back us.''

If anyone can help with a site they are asked to write to Sara at PO Box 69, Brotton, Saltburn TS 12 2GN or contact (01287) 201005 between 9am and 1pm Monday to Friday.