FOUR dogs which were rehomed by the Island's RSPCA are set to steal the limelight this weekend when they take part in the famous Crufts dog show at Birmingham's NEC.

The four pooches will make up an agility display team being presented at Crufts by the UK's five largest animal welfare charities - the RSPCA, Battersea Dogs' Home, Blue Cross, National Canine Defence League and Wood Green Animal Shelters.

It is the fourth year in succession that the charities have joined forces at Crufts to promote rescue dogs as good pets.

The display features dogs which have triumphed over the most difficult circumstances to become stars in their own right.

Team members from the Island are 18-month-old border collie Jessie from Carisbrooke, Scrappy, a spaniel cross, also just 18 months old, from East Cowes, Paddy a six-year-old bearded collie cross from Rookley, and two-year-old Fluke, a pointer cross also from Rookley.

The quartet were all rehomed by the RSPCA from its centre in Godshill and have, with their dedicated handlers, spent the past few months being put through their paces in preparation for their appearance in the ring.

Speaking on behalf of the Isle of Wight participants Lucy Craven, owner of Paddy, said: "After suffering being abandoned by previous owners, taking part in agility has been a fantastic confidence boost for all of our dogs.

"What were once nervous, frightened or boisterous animals are now well-trained and lovable pets. Rescue dogs really can make great companions and we can't wait to show our dogs off in the ring this weekend."

Anyone interested in giving a good home to an RSPCA rescue dog should contact the charity's inquiries department on 0870 754 0450 for details of their nearest rehoming centre.