Bulldog-lovers from Hampstead came together at the Duke of Hamilton pub in a fundraiser to help dogs saved from abuse and the Chinese meat trade.

Campaigners and their canine companions turned out in force on Saturday for a dog-friendly fun day organised by local dog-sitters Hampstead Hounds.

The £3,000 raised will be put towards flying five bulldogs to new homes in the UK, after they were rescued by The Edward Foundation charity in China.

A bull-terrier, named Hera, has already been flown over as part of the project.

Christiana Hines, from Hampstead Hounds, said: “A big thank you to all who supported this event.

“The incredible total raised will go towards making a huge difference.”

The event began life as a birthday party for Stacey James’ bulldog Clementine, but she decided to make it a fundraising event.

She said: “It was just a wonderful start to the Christmas season.”