AN SPCA animal rehoming centre in Hamilton had 170 furry friends spending Christmas Day without a home of their own.

Each animal, however, had a festive treat and the centre is open to the public to see those looking for a new home.

Centre manager Peter Fleming said, "It's a heartbreaking reality that there are lots of pets without loving homes to call their own this Christmas time.

"However, thanks to our dedicated staff, no animal in our care spent Christmas Day alone and we even made sure they all got a little treat from Santa.

"The animals here are relying on us as they don't have anywhere else to go, so it's simply not an option for us to close over the holidays."

He said they were continuing to rescue unwanted and neglected animals over the festive period.

He added: "We aren't rehoming young animals such as puppies and kittens until January 3 to prevent them being taken on by someone who just wants a new pet for Christmas.

"However, those genuinely wishing to offer a young animal a permanent home can come along to meet them and they can be reserved.

"There are also lots of older pets in our care who are ready and waiting to find their forever homes right now.

"Locals are always welcome to pop in to our centre, whether it's to meet an animal they're interested in rehoming, donate food or toys for our homeless pets, or simply just to say hello."

The Scottish SPCA's animal rescue and rehoming centre is open from 10am-4pm seven days a week.