THE Blue Cross Animal Adoption Centre welcomed MP Boris Johnson as it officially opened its new centre in Lewknor, Oxfordshire.

The centre, which has been operational for several months, hosted two days of celebrations earlier this month, with a public open day that followed the official opening ceremony.

The ceremony saw Mr Johnson welcomed by chief executive of the Blue Cross, John Rutter, before giving a short speech and unveiling a commemorative plaque.

The public open day which followed raised £1,500 through various stalls and a dog show.

Michael Eagleton, spokesman for the Blue Cross, said: "Boris gave a very witty speech. He had been bitten by a dog recently and he enjoyed telling that story."

One the centre's first tasks is to find a home for Tango, a two-year-old greyhound which has yet to find an owner despite being voted "people's favourite dog" at the open day.

Visit the centre or call on 01844 355293