Messy mutts from Kent can now be groomed by Christina Aguilera's dog stylist.

Before moving to Wellpets in Sittingbourne, Francesco Russo provided grooming services in prestigious Chelsea, Notting Hill and Kensington for pooches belonging to A-list celebs.

As well as ensuring several dogs owned by the American singer looked Beautiful and not Dirrty, he also had the privilege of making Chelsea football club owner Roman Abramovich's poodle look striking.

He never met the stars face-to-face though as the animals were always brought in by minders or assistants.

Russo said: "The first time I groomed Roman Abramovich's dog I was told he said it was the best cut the dog had ever had and he only wanted me to do it in the future."

The 40-year-old, who is originally from Sicily, has 20 years of experience under his belt.

He studied in top dog grooming salons learning how to groom different breeds to a high standard or to meet owners' individual requirements.

After owning two parlours with pet shops attached for more than 10 years in Palermo, Mr Russo, his wife Emilie, 39, and their two children, Riccardo, 13, and 10-year-old Gaya moved to central London in October last year for work purposes.

But despite being attracted to the city, the couple did not feel it was the best place to bring up their children so in March they sent them back to Italy to stay with their grandparents while they found somewhere else to live and work.

They relocated to Sittingbourne in May after Mr Russo got the job at the vet practice based in Periwinkle Close, Church Street, where his wife works as his assistant.

After sorting out school places, their children finally flew in from Italy to join them.

They now all live together in a rented house in the heart of Sittingbourne.

Mr Russo said: "We love living close to the seaside, the countryside but with all the advantages of town!

"Everyone here is so much nicer than in London - people smile at each other!"

Gordon Roberts, vet and owner of Wellpets, said: "We're so proud to be able to offer the highest quality grooming to the standards that the stars demand."

To book an appointment with Francesco, call 01795 424600.