GREYHOUND rescue champion Pat Graham has been inundated with offers of a home for a dog which had its throat cut by gipsies.

Since the story about the Lurcher dog appeared in the Bolton Evening News, the phone hasn't stopped ringing at Pat's Horwich home with people clamouring to adopt the animal.

And happily for the dog, christened Hero by Pat, a good home has been found for him with an elderly couple at Preston, who "absolutely dote" on him.

"I couldn't believe the response," said Pat, who runs Lexus Greyhound Rescue. "I've never known anything like it, it's been phenomenal. The Bolton Evening News have certainly done it this time."

Hero had to have 32 stitches in the wound after being rescued by youngsters and ended up with a temporary home with Pat.

Because of its injury the dog could not wear a collar for fear it would rub against the wound and Pat made an appeal through the paper for a body harness, similar to ones worn by guide dogs.

"I found harnesses of all sizes pushed through the letter box and one man came to the door with a donation of £50 and wouldn't give his name. Someone else brought dog food. The response has been amazing, " she added.

At the time Pat was also looking after eight Lurcher puppies and several other dogs, and managed to get them all re-homed.

At the moment she is looking for a home for another gentle-natured Lurcher, found tied to a railway line near the place where Hero was discovered. Anyone who can help should contact Pat on Bolton 668589.

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