RSPCA workers have made a desperate appeal to find a new home for a dog following the death of his beloved owner.

Rebel the German Shepherd was discovered by police lying next to his master after 55-year-old Stephen Buckley died suddenly at his home in Regent Street, Moulton, on December 29.

The four-year-old dog, who is thought to have been devoted to his owner and Mr Buckley's closest companion, is now being looked after temporarily at Warrington's RSPCA centre.

But staff are hoping a kind-hearted Guardian reader will be able to give him a new home.

Chris Walkden, manager of the RSPCA centre, said: "He is being very quiet and not very co-operative, but because of the situation he is in this can only be expected.

"At the moment he is very confused and it will take him a while to get over it."

She added: "Rebel has not been used to family life and for that reason he would suit a new owner with a similar background to his previous one, or maybe an older couple."

Following Mr Buckley's funeral at Moulton Methodist Church yesterday, Tuesday, the Rev Graham Patrick, who conducted the service, said: "At the funeral I spoke about his great love of dogs and I know that he was very, very fond of his own dog."

If you may be able to provide a new home for Rebel please ring Warrington RSPCA centre on 01925 632944, between 12pm and 4pm, every day except Tuesdays.