A PRESTON man who rescued a Labrador from being bullied by other dogs, is now using his pet to help the sick and elderly.

Frank Hogarth, of Avenham, found the animal in a rescue society where it had been abandoned, because it was too timid to be kept with working dogs.

His new owner said he recognised it as a friendly, loving creature immediately, and as soon as it had settled into being a domestic animal he applied to the charity, Pets As Therapy, to see if Perdy could become a working dog with a more gentle job.

Now twice a week, Frank and Perdy go along to Moor Park House where it is pampered and petted, and has become quite a celebrity.

Frank said: "It's amazing how much happiness and comfort pets can give to people in hospital or in distress.

"The people at Moor Park House can't have pets, but they love it when Perdy is there."

Now Frank, a driver, and Perdy are hoping to help others benefit from the Pets As Therapy (PAT) by raising money for the charity.

He and his dog are planning to do a 127-mile sponsored walk, the length of the Leeds Liverpool canal.

The pair hope to raise £500 to be shared equally between the Labrador Rescue Society and PAT.

Anyone wishing to sponsor them, can donate money at the County Arms Pub in Deepdale Road.