An Iwade family have given a new home to the 1,000th dog to come through Battersea’s doors this year.

Daniel and Racheal Seymour from Monin Road are the proud new owners of Marley, a nine-week-old Staffordshire bull terrier.

They travelled to the world famous animal charity in the hope of finding a furry playmate for their children, 18-month-old Emilia and Oliver, aged four.

Having “fallen in love” with the pup, they were alerted to its milestone status.

Daniel, 34, said: “As we were about to leave with Marley one of Battersea’s marketing ladies said he was the 1,000th dog they’d rescued this year.

“She asked if we would pose for a studio picture and before you know it, the photo’s appeared all over Facebook, Twitter and some national media websites.

“At this rate, I might have to get him an agent.”

Marley arrived at Battersea with six litter mates because their owner could no longer care for them.

The pub, renamed by its new owner as a tribute to the late, great reggae artist, was at the Home for eight days before the Seymours came calling.

Daniel, an IT project manager, said the family were desperate for a dog and internet research showed staffs to be a reliable option.

He said: “The conclusion was Staffordshire bull terriers are good with kids.

“They’re are a lovely breed but sometimes end up in the wrong hands.

“He’s behaving like a typical puppy at the moment, eating my socks and chasing feet.”