Rescue dogs star in M&S TV advert

The pair have been chosen to star in a Marks and Spencer’s advert alongside top models including Twiggy and Lisa Snowdon.

Life wasn’t looking great for West Highland terriers Alfie (10) and Izzy (9) when their owner sadly died last year and they found themselves at The Blue Cross animal charity adoption centre in Northiam, looking for a new home.

But just months later, things are looking up; not only do Alfie and Izzy have a loving new home, but also a TV appearance under their belt.

The cute twosome can now be seen making their TV debut in a Scottish-themed scene in M&S’s autumn ad campaign. They ‘auditioned’ for the advert after their groomer mentioned to new owner Dree Downie (pictured, inset) that M&S were looking for Westies.

They made the grade along with 18 other dogs, and went off to London for a day of filming and star treatment.

Dree said: “It’s been really exciting seeing Alfie and Izzy on TV. We think we managed to pick them out in the advert, although it is quite difficult with 16 other almost identical dogs! I’m sure no one could have imagined a few months ago that these two little homeless dogs would be hanging out with top models.”

Luckily, dog lover Dree had set her heart on finding a pair of older Westies and when she saw Alfie and Izzy on The Blue Cross website, she knew they were perfect. After a visit to the centre, it wasn’t long before the dogs were settled into their new home with Dree and her family in Purley, Surrey.

“I don’t think the fame has gone to their heads.” added Dree, “They were very happy to donate their fee to The Blue Cross, as a thank you for taking such good care of them before they came to us.”

Maria Marmo, centre manager for The Blue Cross adoption centre at Northiam, said: “I couldn’t believe it when I opened the letter containing a cheque, saying it was Alfie and Izzy’s fee for appearing in a Marks and Spencer advert. We know all the pets at our adoption centres are little stars, but this really proves it!”

Blue Cross animal adoption centres take in a find new homes for hundreds of animals every year. The Blue Cross receives no government funding, so relies on the generous support of the public to continue its vital work.