FOR the past ten years, Bertie the Labrador visited the Blue Diamond garden centre in Rake during the weekends before Christmas to raise money for the Dogs Trust.

This year was his last appearance as a fundraising mascot for the charity that rehomes abandoned and badly-treated dogs.

In that time, he has raised about £400 every year, and a total of £5,000 for the trust.

A trust spokesman said: “This year, even with the coronavirus restrictions, he raised £500. But Bertie is now sadly retiring, as it is cold work, even when you are sitting on a cushion.

“We would like to thank the garden centre manager Chris Hill for his support.

“Also it’s a big thanks to Pets Corner in Chapel Street in Petersfield, for the cushion for Bertie’s old bones.

“But most importantly, we would like to thank the people of Petersfield for their magnificent support and kind donations – you are the best.”

It is hoped that next year, Echo, the new Dogs Trust puppy, will be there with a collecting tin.