Battersea Dogs and Cats Home was treated to one of the cutest sights south of the Thames this week as fire fighters with London Fire Brigade (LFB) paid canines at the centre a friendly visit.

Their presence came courtesy of the world-famous animal sanctuary's 'Wear Blue for Rescue’ campaign, which encourages people across the UK to show their support for rescue by "proudly wearing a special new ‘rescue symbol’ (in the form of a logo and badge) to celebrate all that makes rescue animals so special".

Nine fire fighters from Battersea station's Blue Watch attended the centre where they met and played with dogs there, including three-week old puppies who were rejected by their mum recently.

Battersea Rehoming and Welfare Manager, Adele Tuttlebee, said: "Since we launched our Wear Blue campaign, we have been overwhelmed by the support it has received from animal lovers everywhere. When the Blue Watch got in touch to share their support for rescue, we thought it only right that we show our support in return for all the work that they do, including rescuing animals. What better way to say thanks than by introducing the crew to some of our current loveable residents?"

The meeting was more than just symbolic. Each year LFB typically rescue hundreds of animals, many of which are pets or strays.

This year the brigade say they have already saved 726 animals including 331 cats and 86 dogs, as well as plenty of other animals from horses to birds to goats and even snakes.

Blue Watch’s visit gave the crew a rare chance to meet animals who weren’t in need of saving for once.

Leading Firefighter, Tom O’Connor, said: "All of us on Battersea Blue Watch are delighted to be supporting Battersea’s Wear Blue for Rescue campaign. Firefighters love animals too and we are often called to assist distressed or injured animals when our specialist equipment is required. These animals can unfortunately sometimes be strays, so it’s a real comfort to know there are charities like Battersea that are ready to help. It was a real privilege to meet some of Battersea’s current residents and see the fantastic work that’s being done there by the wonderful staff and volunteers."

Click here for more on Battersea Dogs and Cats Home.