A DOG rehoming centre has officially reopened following an extensive, 17-month renovation project.

The Dogs Trust Evesham opened its revamped, state-of-the-art facility on Wednesday at an event attended by Mid-Worcestershire MP Nigel Huddleston and the Mayor of Evesham among others.

The Wickhamford-based rehoming centre, which first opened half a century ago, now boasts spacious kennels with underfloor heating, play areas and all-weather exercise paddocks set within ten acres of green space.

Chris Slight, rehoming centre manager at Dogs Trust Evesham, said: "All of us at Dogs Trust Evesham, staff and canines alike, are delighted to be officially re-opening our new rehoming centre.

"We started the process back in May last year and it's fantastic to see it all come together."

Yesterday’s grand opening was the first of two stages in the renovation scheme, which is due for completion next year.

The second phase of development will include a full surgical facility, so dogs can be treated on site, Sponsor A Dog kennels, a state-of-the-art puppy block and a separate intake block for the new canine arrivals at the centre.

Mr Slight continued: "Upon completion on phase two, our new centre has the capacity to care for around 100 dogs, and provides state-of-the-art kennelling for the dogs whilst they await their new homes.

"Because Dogs Trust never puts a healthy dog down, some of the dogs in our care can be with us for a while, so it's crucial for us that whilst in our care they are safe, comfortable and stimulated.

"This new centre ensures this for every single dog, no matter their shape or size."

Celebrating the new centre were Dogs Trust CEO, Adrian Burder, Dogs Trust chairman, Graeme Robertson, MP Nigel Huddleston, the staff and volunteers of Dogs Trust Evesham, school children from Willersey Primary School in Worcestershire - and local footballing sensation and global YouTube star, 'Ronaldog'.

Mr Burder thanked staff and local supporters for their continued support and generosity, including charitable trust, Support Adoption for Pets who offer grants to animal welfare organisations.