A local independent dog rescue organisation is among the many good causes in the Harrogate area receiving support from The Local Lotto, which enables them to raise funds.

Saving Yorkshire’s Dogs is an independent rescue in charity Yorkshire for dogs in desperate situations. It aims to educate and support, if possible, owners in need of help.

It is one of many groups to have benefited from the £260,000 raised for Harrogate area causes by The Local Lotto since its creation five years ago.

Margaret Allison, a trustee at Saving Yorkshire’s Dogs in the Harrogate area, said: “The community lottery has helped a lot with raising awareness of our dog rescue efforts and what is involved in running our organisation. The funds we have raised through the community lottery have supported at least seven dogs in their initial vaccinations programme and the start of their new life.”

One of the many dogs to be helped is Bertha (pictured), a St Bernard’s pup. The group’s vet found she had problems with her bones, was on an unsuitable diet and was expected to live only a few years. Her new owner is working with the group and Bertha is now a big, bouncing bundle of joy.

Sixty pence from every £1 Local Lotto ticket goes to Harrogate area charities, voluntary organisations and community groups. Players, who must be aged over 18, have the chance of winning a £25,000 jackpot plus smaller cash prizes each week. Find out more about The Local Lotto.