PLUCKY terrier Desperate Dan deserves a new home.

The tiny tyke was in a terrible state when a kind fisherman found him tethered and abandoned beside an anglers' hot spot.

The good samaritan, who discovered Dan roped to a fence near Howe Bridge Sports Centre, called cat and dog rescuers Petsearch who rushed to help.

In need of urgent veterinary care, Dan - so called because he looked so desperate - was taken to Maddrell, Buxton and Taylor's Leigh surgery.

After six days of treatment he was taken in by Leigh canine carer Diane Woods.

Dog lover Diane is puzzled as to why Dan was abandoned.

"He's sensible, house trained and brilliant with other dogs and people. I guess he's around four years old and has obvioulsy come from a loving home at some stage in his life. We just want to make sure he will have a good home in the future."

Petsearch's local branch representative Margaret Andrews, of Lingards Lane, Astley, explained:"Dan spent the first day lying in a dog bed on a sheepskin blanket simply watching the birds and recovering from his trauma.

"All his feet had been shaved to treat a severe, painful infection but throughout his ordeal little Dan has trusted and loved everyone who cared for him."

Petsearch is a voluntary organisation and vets' fees for Dan have already exceeded £100. Any donation, however small, towards his treatment would be gratefully received.

They can be forwarded to Petsearch at:Harefield, 7 Sandy Lane, Astley, Tyldesley, M29 7ED. Receipts will be issued.

The charity, which rescues and rehouses cats and dogs, is now seeking a permanent place for Dan. If you can provide a loving home for him call Margaret on 01942 882993 or Sue on 01942 711434.

Petsearch was given a boost when big-hearted bikers from the Fenrir Motorcycle Brotherhood raised funds for the charity at their Atherton rally. Revellers donated a tin of pet food with their entry fee.

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