Hundreds of people across Oxfordshire have been paying tribute to a beloved Border Collie cross who died in a house fire in Cowley.

The pet dog, named Jolly, was reported missing following a major fire on Watlington Road, with the entire community pulling together in an effort to try and find him.

Some residents searched nearby woodlands and trawled the streets in the hope of reuniting the missing dog with his family.

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But it emerged this week that Jolly's body had been found at the scene of the fire, despite initial reports that he had managed to escape.

Since we broke the news of his passing, the Oxford Mail Facebook page has been inundated with people sending their condolences to Jolly's family.

'Loyal to the end'

One local, Laura May Wilson, wrote: "Absolutely heartbroken. I adore my sprollie. They are such intelligent dogs. Hope you had a wonderful life together."

And Linda Dalton said: "Run free to the rainbow bridge beautiful Jolly! You were so very loved and will be missed very much! Rip Jolly."

Sherridan Kendrick added: "Sleep tight Jolly - loyal to the end."

Wendy Fower wrote: "I am so sorry to hear this. Fly free over the rainbow bridge baby. The only good thing is you have closure now."

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