A GREYHOUND rescue centre can now help even more abandoned dogs after a charity donated a brand new van.

Castledon Greyhound Rescue, in Castledon Road, Wickford, helps greyhounds find new forever homes after they have been given up by their owners.

Racing greyhounds are often retired from the track aged just two - mostly due to injury, being too slow to race or just not wanting to take part in the races.

Even dogs which have full racing careers are retired at about four-years-old.

Sadly, these dogs are often dumped or struggle to find new homes.

The Castledon centre, which opened in 1997, cares for up to 16 dogs at any one time.

The centre has now received a new van from charity Support Adoption for Pets, to allow it to safely transport greyhounds in its care to and from the centre and new homes - without having to rely on its volunteers’ own vehicles.

Andrea Kirk, treasurer and trustee of Castledon Greyhound Rescue, said: “Having a brand new van, specifically kitted out for the comfort and safety of the dogs, will make a big difference to our rescue.

“The new van will mean we don’t have to worry about the van letting us down and enable us to help as many dogs as possible.

“Thank you Support Adoption For Pets for giving us and our dogs this opportunity.”

Jodie Adams, also from the rescue centre, added: " To have a reliable, economical van to safely transport the dogs is invaluable to us we really couldn't be more delighted with it - it's fantastic!”

Amy Wilson, charity manager at Support Adoption For Pets, which assists rehoming centres and animal welfare organisations across the UK, added: “It is a real privilege to help an organisation that works so hard to re-home greyhounds across the Wickford area.

“They are doing a superb job, and the effort the rescue puts in is an inspiration.”

To find out more about the rescue centre or for information about adopting a greyhound, visit castledongreyhoundrescue.co.uk