AN ex-racing greyhound helped romantic David Bamford win the heart of girlfriend Michelle Moseley.

Jimmy, a two-years-old rescue dog, delivered a proposal of marriage to Michelle, while the animal loving couple were visiting the National Canine Defence League's rehoming centre in Huyton.

Animal lover Michelle, of Beaumaris Road, Hindley Green, looked on in amazement as the brindle ex-racer ran up to her with the words "will you marry me?" written on a scroll tucked in his collar.

And David, of Ennerdale Road, Astley, who got down on one knee to retrieve the message was delighted to be accepted. This week the couple chose a platinum and solitaire diamond engagement ring, and Michelle bought David a Gucci watch.

They plan to marry early next year.

The two 24-year-olds met seven years ago while on a media studies course at the Leigh campus of Wigan and Leigh College. David is now a customer services adviser and Michelle an administrator in Astley.

David said: 'Michelle is a real dog lover and a dedicated supporter of the NCDL, so I enlisted the help of the centre in my plan and they were delighted to play their part.

"I take her on surprise trips to different places every few weeks, but this was one shock she didn't expect. She had absolutely no idea what I was planning and was just walking round when Jimmy ran up to us.

Seemed like best idea

"I knew getting the words out would be emotional so having a rescue dog do the honours for me seemed like the best idea.

"Michelle sponsors a cross breed dog called Malcolm in Leeds and I send sponsorship to the RSPCA."

"We would love to have been able to adopt Jimmy, but as we still live with our parents it would be impossible. We will take in a rescue dog when we are married."

After playing Cupid for the day Jimmy is looking for a loving new home.

For the NCDL, which never puts a fit dog down, Jennifer Morton said: "Jimmy has been with us for a couple of months after being discarded as -a racing greyhound. He is one of the lucky ones that will hopefully be rehomed. He is a lovely dog and loves his toys.

'People think that greyhounds need a lot of exercise, but they don't they are quite lazy and love lying around."

Anyone interested in offering him or any of the other dogs a caring home should contact the centre on 0151 480 0660.