KIND-hearted Worcester News readers have given most of the 12 dogs of Christmas a happy home.

The Worcester News campaign highlighted the plight of dogs and pups who found themselves homeless over the festive period.

Danemere Animal Rescue, in Tibberton, near Droitwich, has been inundated with calls from readers and nine of the 12 have found new homes.

Kennel supervisor at the centre Dave Lannie said: "There has been such a great response.

"The New Year represents a new start and it's nice that all of these dogs have been given another chance with some great owners. It's brilliant that people are considering rescue dogs,rather than going out and buying puppies."

Mirjam, an 11-week-old collie cross who has been renamed Bess, captured the heart of her new owner Sue, who lives near Droitwich.

"She's absolutely full of energy and has settled down really well," she said.

Twinkle, who is now named Pip, had a terrible start in life after being dumped in a box

near Droitwich.

But new owner Jane and her

10-year-old son are thrilled to take the terrier cross under their wing at their Droitwich home.

"Joshua saw her and fell in love with her," she said. "She is smaller than our cats, but is really full of herself and is going to rule the roost when she gets bigger."

Shy Stella, a German shepherd, has found new owners in Worcester.

Bernard, aged 40 said: "My wife saw her and fell in love with her. She follows us everywhere and seems to be settling down."

Annette, of Worcester, was missing her previous dog after it died, when Joseph, now called Jamie, caught her eye.

"It was love at first sight," she said. "He has been wonderful and is settling in really well.

"It's as though he has always been here."

Sadly, with this success story comes the news that the number of dogs at the centre is back to full capacity of about 15, due to more animals that were abandoned after Christmas.

But these dogs still need a place to live

Ella

This gentle border collie cross needs loving new owners to help boost her confidence.

The timid eight-year-old has come out of her shell since

she arrived at Danemere and is good with children and other dogs.

George

This blind dog is desperate need of fresh start after being abandoned. Apart from cataracts, which have caused him to lose his sight, he is in good health. Staff believe he can see shapes, and he has no trouble finding his way around.

Piti

This timid 15-month-old Labrador has had a terrible start in life. He was found abandoned in Worcester and appears to have been abused.

He is good with other dogs and would benefit from canine companions to boost his confidence.