THEY are the dedicated wardens who helped to rescue a family of dogs from conditions which shocked the world.

This animal welfare duo played a pivotal role in recovering nine poodle crosses who were cruelly dumped, unable to see or stand, in the Hampshire countryside last month.

Now David Griffiths and May Carrington have been recognised for their help by the National Dog Warden Association at a special ceremony in Winchester.

The dogs were abandoned on the outskirts of the city on January 20, with filthy coats of fur gluing their eyes together and leaving one with a curved spine.

Mr Griffiths said it was the worst incident in his 24 years as an animal welfare officer, while Ms Carrington tackled the situated in just her second week in the job with Winchester City Council.

Millions of people around the world offered their sympathy for the terrified animals after the Daily Echo led a campaign to find the culprit and raise money for the RSPCA.

Donations to Poodle Network UK, facilitated by the city council when residents phoned in with offers, have been used to cover vet bills of £5,038.

The dogs are recovering in RSPCA centres at Ashley Heath, The Ark in Stubbington and Mount Noddy near Chichester.

The owner remains unidentified.

Daily Echo:

Councillor Patricia Stallard, the council’s new environment chief, said offers of cash, homes and advice from across Hampshire and the world had been remarkable.

She added: “These well-wishers have been so very generous that, through their contributions to the charity Poodle Network UK, they have covered nearly £5,000 in vets’ bills. I would thank everyone who has contributed, and the Poodle Network for their quick and efficient response in administering these donations.”

The Certificates of Appreciation were presented by Mayor of Winchester, Cllr Eileen Berry, at her Abbey House residence.

Cllr Berry said that the incident had set the standard for care and professionalism in very difficult circumstances.