TWO dogs who are the best of friends need a new home after their owner was taken ill.

Sooty, a seven-year-old border collie-cross, and Tina, a five-year-old spaniel collie-cross, were living in Durham, but their owner, who adopted them from the National Animal Sanctuary Support League in Darlington, has been diagnosed with cancer and can no longer look after them.

Pauline Wilson, from the league, said: "It is so sad that they have to be moved because they have been well loved and cared for. Their owner and her family are heart-broken they can no longer look after them and the dogs were also upset to leave their home.

"We would not dream of splitting this pair up. They look after each other and could not survive apart. They are both a delight and would settle anywhere, with other dogs or children, as long as they are together. I just hope someone will come forward who can take them both on."

Anyone interested in giving the dogs a home can call Pauline on (01325) 321855 or 07748268822.