STAFF celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Darlington Dog’s Trust rehoming centre have worked out they have clocked up 247 years of service between them.

Workers at the Sadberge centre have helped rehome more than 18,000 dogs since the centre opened in 1994.

Assistant manager Julie Keenan and canine carer Phil Nicholson are the longest serving members of staff, each clocking up more than 21 years at Dogs Trust, having started work at the rehoming centre before its official opening.

They are followed by canine carer Caroline Johnson, with 20 years, receptionist Linda Wood and training and behaviour adviser David Fish, both with over 18 years experience.

Canine carer Joanne Alford is the last of the long severs with 15 years under her belt.

Dogs Trust Darlington rehoming centre manager, Sue Embleton, said: “We are incredibly lucky to have so many dedicated members of staff here at the centre.

“We are all like one big happy family driven by the knowledge that we really do make a difference to the lives of rescue dogs.

“As we celebrate our 20th anniversary, I’d like to say a big thank you to all of our staff and volunteers from over the years who have contributed to the great work of the charity and helped us rehome over 18,000 dogs.”