A MANGE-ridden mutt, abandoned in a skeletal state near a Far Forest dog sanctuary, can look forward to a happier New Year.

Staff at Forest Dog Rescue have named the lurcher Cracker, in keeping with the festive season, and are nursing him back to health before trying to find him a new home.

The dog, thought to be around 18 months old, was found tied to the gates of a property near the sanctuary, said kennel administrator Sandra Whitmore.

A note attached to him said: "Found this dog outside your gates," she added but she was sceptical about the truth of that, considering his distressed state.

"The dog was in such a mess that they wanted to get shot of it, so they dumped it here," she claimed.

"At least his Christmas will be merry. He is much better off here. There are so many dogs out there that are abused and in a mess like this. He is one of the lucky ones, to end up here for Christmas."

She said it would only have cost the owners who abandoned him £9.50 to treat his mange, which led to his loss of appetite and weight loss.

It will take an estimated six weeks before Cracker is fit for re-homing. Anyone who is interested can contact Forest Dog Rescue on 01299 266858.