DOG owners have been reducing the risk of losing their best friend by taking advantage of a series of microchipping sessions.

The National Canine Defence League teamed teamed up with Wychavon District Council to run the microchipping session at the council's One Stop Shop on Droitwich's High Street yesterday.

Dog owners who missed that can attend several further sessions.

The NCDL will be at Pershore's Civic Centre on Tuesday, July 1, between 2pm and 4pm, while Worcester City Council will also be offering

sessions at the city's Countryside Centre on Thursday, April 24, and Thursday, August 28, between 10am and 4pm.

"The microchipping is a painless procedure and costs just £9.50, although there are concessions for OAPs and residents on benefits," said Pip Singleton, Wychavon's dog warden.

"It's not a high price to pay for peace of mind that if your pet goes astray it can be reunited with you as soon as possible."