The star-studded fundraiser was attended by children's author and Battersea ambassador Dame Jacqueline Wilson.

Battersea's annual ball highlights canine heroes

Guests at this year's Collars and Coats Gala Ball, which is run by Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, had the chance to meet some of the canine heroes whose lives have been transformed by the charity.

The star-studded fundraiser, which is now in its eighth year, was attended by Battersea ambassadors Dame Jacqueline Wilson and David Gandy, among a host of other stars. The entertainment included gymnastics troupe Spelbound and disco legends Sister Sledge, but it was the charity's dogs that stole the show.

A canine 'guard of honour' met guests on the red carpet and several courageous dogs were invited onstage by chief executive Claire Horton. Many of them arrived at Battersea as strays or victims of abuse or neglect, but each has made an incredible recovery. Some now even help the charity spread messages of responsible pet care in challenging communities.

Among these are a Staffie-whippet cross who was found being dragged across a car park when she was a puppy; Staffie puppy Willow, who was brought in as a stray; and bulldog George, who was completely bald and covered in sores when he arrived. Now the trio visit prisons and young offender institutions to help teach inmates the importance of animals as companions, not cheap commodities.

They were joined onstage by 12-year-old retriever Flynn, who was confused and frightened to find himself at Battersea through no fault of his own. He is now a companion dog to schoolchildren with complex learning difficulties and cognitive disabilities.

Claire Horton said the gala ball is about celebrating the charity's work and raising funds to allow this work to continue.

"The ball gives us a great opportunity to highlight some of the most difficult animal welfare issues out staff are faced with every day, including dreadful cruelty and neglect cases, backstreet breeding and puppy farming.

"It's a night where our dogs truly shine the brightest. The dogs onstage last night all have miraculous tales to tell, of overcoming abandonment and cruelty, and in some cases, now helping others out in the community - they have all been given a second chance in life and are true Battersea inspirations.

"Sadly there are so many more unwanted and abounded animals out there for whom Battersea is their only chance."

Image courtesy of Battersea Dogs and Cats Home