A “devoted” and dedicated volunteer has been travelling nearly 100 miles each way to help out at an animal charity since he lost his dog.

For the last six years, Rob Carter has been making the “incredible” 97 mile journey from his home in Ringwood, Hampshire, to Battersea Dogs and Cats Home.

Mr Carter said: “My passion for the charity began a few years ago when I sadly lost my ex-Battersea dog.

“I wanted to give back to the Home and decided to sign up as a volunteer – I haven’t looked back since.

“I’ve been able to experience things I could never imagine, such as meeting our former Prime Minster, to making friends for life.

“I feel very lucky to be a part of the Battersea family and the long journey is definitely worth it.”

Rob, who spends around three hours driving to the centre, first began volunteering in the community engagement team which raises awareness of responsible dog ownership.

He has since been involved in everything from helping to organise fundraising initiatives in the events team, to caring for cats in the cattery.

The home, who has over 1,000 people helping out, has been able to expand its volunteering and fostering department thanks to the players of People’s Postcode Lottery, who “kindly donated” £200,000 in 2016.

Charlotte Fielder, Battersea’s head of volunteering and fostering, said: “We really value the incredible contribution our volunteers and foster carers make to the work we do here at Battersea, and Rob is a prime example of their dedication to the home.

To volunteer or to be a foster carer go here.