A DOG found abandoned on a windswept road is in need of a new owner.

Durham county councillor Phil Graham discovered the animal on Wednesday, on the Leeholme to Westerton road, where it had been tied to a fence so tightly it could not sit down.

The animal, which was in distress, was taken to Deerness Kennels, near Durham City, by Wear Valley District Council's environmental health officers.

Coun Graham said: "It was totally in distress and looked as if it had been there for a few hours. It was an appalling case of abandonment.

"Hopefully it will have a happy ending if somebody can find her a home."

Environmental health officer at Wear Valley council, Craig Rudman, said the dog will be kept for nine days to give the owner a chance to reclaim it and after that it will be either rehomed or destroyed.

If anyone can give the animal a home they should contact the kennels on 0191-378 0439