FIVE kittens are in need of a new home after being taken to Ramshaw Rescue Centre, near Bishop Auckland, because their owners are no longer able to care for them properly.

Kate Wilson, from the centre, said: "They are so cute. They look like they have escaped straight from a greetings card. Obviously we want to find them all a good home.''

Two former residents at the centre have enjoyed their own happy ending after months of waiting for a new home.

Boris and Ollie, two mastiff-cross dogs, have finally gone to new homes after extended stays at the centre.

Ollie, who was housed at the animal sanctuary for six months, was the last of the two to leave.

Ms Wilson said: "We were really sad to see him go, because he was like one of the family. He had been here so long, but we are glad he has found somewhere at last.''

The dogs were rehomed after an appeal in The Northern Echo.