A DORCHESTER boy has been named Pet Protector of the Year by an animal charity.

The PDSA, which last year provided 1.3 million free treatments on sick and injured pets, runs a young people's club and 12-year-old Steven Smith from Poundbury proved to be its star member.

In the past 12 months he raised more than 25,000 points through the club's medal and point scheme by fundraising, recruiting new members, donating items to PDSA shops and highlighting the work of the PDSA.

Club organiser Donna French said: "Steven has worked extremely hard during the past year and deserves the title of the Pet Protector's Club."

The club encourages youngsters to learn about responsible pet ownership in a friendly and fun way.

Membership is half price in December - £2.50 per year instead of £5 - and young people signing up will receive a membership badge, personalised membership card and copies of the bi-monthly magazine, Animal Antics.

More information is available on (01952) 290999.