VOLUNTEERS are needed to keep a dog's home open for longer hours in the summer.

From May until August, the National Canine Defence League (NCDL) kennels in Darlington will stay open until 8pm on week nights.

Volunteers are needed during the extended hours to ensure the Sadberge kennels run as normal.

It is hoped the longer hours will enable more dogs to be rehomed and will allow the animals more time to be exercised and to socialise.

Catherine Gillie, manager of the kennels, said: "We hope that by offering late night opening we will be able to rehome more dogs than ever before.

"We will be more accessible to people who may want to rehome a dog but who are not normally available during the day. But to make it a success we need help. We are looking for dedicated people who would be willing to help out during the summer months, not just in the evenings, but throughout the whole day."

Volunteers will be asked to walk and clean the animals and organise pre-adoption visits.

To find out more contact (01325) 333114.