A leading animal charity with headquarters at Burford reckons that pet owners will have spent more than £27m on Christmas gifts for them this year.

A survey carried out for The Blue Cross animal welfare charity confirms that Britis people like to dig deep when it comes to their pets.

The survey found that while women were more likely to buy pet presents, men were likely to spend £10 or more.

Lynn Rogers, manager of the Burford centre in Shilton Road, said: "Many British people regard their pet as a member of the family that should receive a Christmas present just like the rest of us.

"It's heartwarming to see that Britain is still such a nation of animal lovers, but spare a thought at this time of year for the thousands of abandoned and unwanted pets."

The centre has launched a fundraising appeal to help provide food and shelter for animals of unwanted pets in its care over the festive period.

Treats, toys, bedding, or money, can be sent to the centre, while donations can also be made on-line at www.bluecross.org.uk.