TOP Bolton comic, Dave Spikey, narrowly missed out on a place in the final of ITV's Big Big Talent Show.

The comedian, who is already well known on the comedy circuit, failed to win the viewers' seal of approval despite winning a studio audience poll on the Jonathan Ross-hosted show.

But Dave gets an overwhelming endorsement from Bolton Destitute Animal Shelter, which was given a massive media plug when volunteers from the centre - complete with stray dogs - introduced his act on screen. And shelter organisers having nothing but admiration for the comedian who plays an active role in helping animals.

Dave, who works in Bolton General Hospital's Haematology Department, has taken in dozens of dogs who are sick or are nearing the end of their life. Animal Shelter worker, Neil Martin said: "We have had a great deal of help over the years from Dave and he cares deeply about the welfare of animals." Dave, who is a vegetarian, admits he is passionate about animals and as well as dogs he has goats and a chicken at his home in Whittle-le-Woods near Chorley. He said: "The shelter does a lot of great work and many of the dogs I take in have been quite badly treated. I was very pleased to be able to give them a plug on the Big Big Talent Show." Dave will shortly embark on a tour with Simon Bligh and will compere the City Life Comedian of the Year at the Levenshulme Palace next Wednesday featuring fellow Bolton comic, Peter Kay.

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