Homes are needed for two veterans of the greyhound track, now long past their racing best.

RSPCA rehoming officers are seeking caring owners for the greyhounds,which are being looked after at Deerness Kennels on the outskirts of Durham.

Both male dogs are said to be good-natured, and, contrary to popular belief, do not require too much exercising.

One is about seven or eight, and is black, while the other is fawn and aged about nine or ten.

Pauline Bartlett, co-ordinator for the RSPCA Durham and District branch, said: "They are being well looked after at the kennels, but they just want to be in a home environment.

"It's not really a good idea for older dogs to be in kennels. At their time of life they crave the comforts of home living.

"They don't have a lot of fat on them, and were trained for the track when they were younger."

She added: "There will be people out there who would take them and who would provide excellent new homes for them, it's just a case of spreading the word.

"They walk brilliantly on the lead because they are used to being walked round the track prior to races.

"They're generally very well behaved and all they want is somewhere to curl up, lie on the floor and be fed and watered.

"Although they are greyhounds, they do not actually need great long walks, particularly at their age."