A DOG rescue centre in Crays Hill is appealing for good homes for its growing ranks of adorable pooches.

Essex Greyhound Rescue, at Pipps Hill Farm, in Pipps Hill Road, currently has 20 dogs desperate to be taken in by families.

The centre typically takes in ex-racing dogs from the tracks at Wimbledon, Harlow and Sitting- bourne, who can no longer compete because of age or injury. But it also re-homes young dogs dumped by unscrupulous trainers because they showed no aptitude for racing, and would have otherwise been destroyed.

Julie Kerry, a 54-year-old civil servant, and mum-of-two from Southend, has found homes for more than 700 dogs since she set-up the centre eight years ago.

She has taken in many dogs bred in Ireland, and placed them with families across the UK, and even as far away as Jersey and Germany.

Julie, who has two greyhounds of her own, said: “I speak to people about what type of dog they are looking for, and then arrange for them to come and look at about half-a-dozen dogs.

“People have different needs: Some of them need a dog which can get on with other small dogs or cats. Some are elderly and need a gentle companion, and others have young families and want a playful dog. Whatever people are looking for, we have the perfect dog for them at our centre.”

All the dogs are vaccinated and have been given a full dental check.

To make an appointment to see the dogs, call Julie on 07967 327544.