TOP DJ Chris Evans really took the Biscuit when he found his new mascot.

TOP DJ Chris Evans really took the Biscuit when he found his new mascot.

For Biscuit - a former rescue dog - has been chosen by the entrepreneur from thousands of dogs to be his symbol for his national radio show.

The DJ hasn't met Biscuit . . . yet. He chose him to be the show's mascot after owners of dogs from across the country sent in pictures of their pooches to his website.

Now his image appears on the show's website and he the adorable two-year-old bearded collie terrier may be invited to public appearances with the star during the year.

“We are thrilled Biscuit was chosen - he is a fantastic dog and pet and really deserves his moment of fame,” said owner Lou Mains.

Lou and her husband Johnny were looking for a new dog when they spotted Biscuit on the Blue Cross web site.

He had been sadly parted with by his former owners after their lives became too busy and they felt it was unfair on him.

“He was being looked after at the Felixstowe Blue Cross so we popped down to see him,” said Mrs Mains.

“When we turned up he was just being walked - he spotted us and immediately made a fuss of us. It was love at first sight for us all!

“We knew instantly he was definitely the one. He's got a great spirit and a lot of character.”

He has been living with the couple at their Ipswich home since last March.

“He's a scruffy-looking mutt but he is so lovely, and we love him to bits,” she added.

When the couple discovered Chris Evans was running a competition for a mascot for his Drivetime show on Radio2, they had no hesitation in entering Biscuit and were delighted when he won. Now they are waiting to hear when he will meet the DJ.

“They wanted dogs with the Rex Factor! He's so special we knew we just had to enter him - we were thrilled when he made that week's list of top dogs and couldn't believe it when he was announced as the winner,” said Mrs Mains.

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Panel:

BISCUIT may have found a new home, but there are still dozens more every month seeking the love of a new family.

Andrew Gillon, manager at the Blue Cross in Walton High Street, Felixstowe, said last year had been a record one for the animal adoption and welfare centre - re-homing nearly 420 homeless and unwanted cats and dogs.

More than twice as many as the previous year were due to people's changing financial circumstances.

“It's been a busy time and a successful time, too, in that we are managing to find homes for more animals,” he said.

“In January we re-homed 38 cats and dogs.

“Unfortunately, we are always full - it's one in, one out, and there are always animals needing new homes.

“The financial situation is going to make it more difficult for some people and we will see more animals coming in.

“For example, people forced to move into rented accommodation will find it hard to find landlords prepared to allow pets.

“The good news is people are still prepared to give animals a home and give them a second chance.”

People can find out more by contacting the centre on 01394 283254 or visiting on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 11am-4pm, or Wednesdays 11am to 1pm.