How stray dogs are handled in Preston has been recognised as gold-standard for the fifth year in a row.

Preston City Council’s dog control team have been given the top award by the RSPCA.

The team also won a Platinum Stray Dogs Footprint, for the PawPrints scheme.

Council staff were recognised for going above and beyond the basic requirements to ensure higher welfare standards for animals for the services they provide.

Preston’s team handle around 230 stray dogs each year.

No healthy dog is ever put to sleep by the council and all unclaimed dogs are re-homed.

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Cabinet member for planning and regulation councillor Peter Moss said: “I am delighted that the team have once again been recognised for their continued commitment to the welfare of stray dogs across Preston.

“Congratulations to the team; it’s a great achievement to sustain such high standards in animal welfare.”