A DOG that was overfed until he was morbidly obese by his former owner is desperately seeking a new home for life in time for Christmas.

Barney, an eight-year-old male Dalmation, used to be double the weight of a healthy canine, tipping the scales at more than 11 stone after gorging on crisps and chocolate.

But in spite of losing 30kg, Barney, who lives at RSPCA Warrington, is no nearer to finding someone to love him and his new slimmed-down look and has not had a single offer of a new home.

Owner, John Green, aged 50, of Chelford Road, Macclesfield, fed Barney a diet of junk food until he weighed 70kg. As a result Green was banned from keeping dogs for 10 years by the town’s magistrates.

Chris Walkden, manager of RSPCA Warrington, Halton & St Helens Branch Animal Centre, on Slutchers Lane, said: “We just can’t understand why Barney is still here. He is a lovely dog with the most affectionate, playful nature.

The animal centre, in Bank Quay, is open from noon to 4pm every day except Tuesday. To enquire about adoption call 632 944 or visit www.rspca-warrington.org.uk