A national charity for the elderly, terminally ill and their pets has put out a call for dog walkers in the Bungay area.

The Cinnamon Trust works to keep owners and pets together for as long as possible with the help of a national network of volunteers who assist when day to day care poses a problem.

A spokesman for the charity said: 'What happens if illness, injury or just the fact that we all get older eventually affects our ability to look after our four legged companions? A large number of elderly or ill pet owners become very worried about their ability to care for their pets, feeling that their only option is to rehome them, this is where our national network of dedicated volunteers step in to offer support enabling them to stay together.

'We'll walk the dog for a housebound owner, we'll foster pets when owners need hospital care, we'll fetch the cat food, even clean out the bird cage or litter trays.'

Anyone interested in volunteering is asked to call 01736 758707 during office hours, email appeals@cinnamon.org.uk or visit www.cinnamon.org.uk