Happy ending for 'sad' dog Bless

Bless, a mournful-looking stray who was thought to be putting potential adopters off with her hangdog expression, has finally found a home. (Battersea Dogs & Cats Home/PA)

A mournful-looking stray which was thought to be putting potential adopters off with her hangdog expression has finally found a home.

Bless was the most long-term resident at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home in London, with staff believing the lack of interest was down to the doleful dog's permanently sad expression.

But following publicity, Geoff and Sylvia Shoesmith, of Chelmsford, Essex, leapt at the chance to take the six-year-old in after being drawn to her loving personality and calm, kindly temperament.

Mr Shoesmith said: "She's fantastic, I can't fault her.

"She's got that sort of face that never gives much away - but as soon as you put your coat on and it's time to take her out, then she positively bounces!"