Statue of Paul O'Grady's dog unveiled at Battersea

Visitors to the London centre will be greeted by the statue of Buster

A bronze statue of TV presenter Paul O'Grady's dog Buster has been unveiled at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.

The sculpture is in recognition of the entertainer's work at the charity and his appointment as an ambassador.

O'Grady's role comes after hosting the TV show For The Love Of Dogs, which went behind the scenes of the home and the animals in its care.

Buster died in 2009 and his bronze will welcome visitors at the entrance to the centre in south-west London.

And despite vowing not to take one of the dogs home, O'Grady has adopted Eddie - a chihuahua-cross.

The puppy had a starring role in the ITV series after being filmed being born by emergency C-section.

'Perfect ambassador'

O'Grady said: "Being a part of Battersea has been an absolute joy.

"I'm such a sucker for animals but I have a particular fondness for dogs.

"Spending so much time at Battersea really opened my eyes to how many unwanted and neglected dogs there are, which breaks my heart, but at the same time Battersea is such a happy and enriching place."

Battersea's Chief Executive Claire Horton, said the presenter was the "perfect ambassador".

"Paul fits in so well and really loves his time here amongst the Battersea dogs," she said.

"He's so committed to our animals and we are all so grateful for his invaluable support."