A GERMAN shepherd and bull mastiff-cross dog is in need of a home after its owners abandoned him by a roadside.

The dog was tied to a post with electric cable and chains near Ramshaw Rescue, in Bishop Auckland.

It had become tangled in the chain which left it with very little room to move.

Kate Wilson, from Ramshaw Rescue, said that she was alerted to the dog's plight by someone visiting the centre.

She said: "He was so frightened and I couldn't get near him at first, but when I eventually freed him he was so grateful.

"This is such a mean thing to do to a dog. We have nicknamed him Footpath and he is a super dog. He will make someone a lovely pet."

Miss Wilson said that Footpath would have to go to a home where his future owner is experienced with dogs.

She said: "I don't think he has been properly house trained, but he is intelligent and eager to please, so he will learn quickly.''

Anyone who would like to offer Footpath a home is asked to call (01388) 834644.