DENBIGHSHIRE County Council's Animal Welfare team has recently been handed two prestigious awards from RSPCA Cymru.

The 'Community Animal Welfare Footprint Awards 2018' recognises the achievements of local authorities, housing providers and contingency planners in promoting and enhancing animal welfare across Wales.

Julie Roberts, Animal Welfare officer picked up the Gold Award on behalf of the authority for their work in dealing with stray dogs.

The Council was also honoured with a Bronze award for the animal licensing work it has undertaken.

Julie was recently presented with the awards by Paul Smith, the RSPCA’s Public Affairs Manager- Wales.

Councillor Tony Thomas, cabinet lead member for housing, regulation and the environment, said: “The fact that Denbighshire picked up two awards is great news and is a testament to the team’s hard work.

“There is a strong partnership between the Public Protection and Customer Services team with the North Clwyd Animal Rescue Centre, as well as specialist vets who support the animal licensing process.

"Every effort is made to try and reunite dogs with their owners before they are taken to an animal rescue centre.

"Local authorities have a key role to play in protecting the welfare of animals and it’s great that Denbighshire’s commitment is recognised at a national level."