Dog abandoned at Blackpool church with note saying 'I'm so sorry' set to be rehomed

A dog that was abandoned by its owner at a Blackpool church with a note saying "I love you and I'm so, so, so sorry" is set to be rehomed.

Cracker, a brindle and white Staffordshire bull terrier-cross, was taken in by the RSPCA after he was found tied to the altar of Sacred Heart Church on December 18.

The RSPCA has now said the dog will find a new home - if his owner does not come forward.

A handwritten note left with him said: "Life has taken a really bad turn for me and I couldn't imagine him being outside with me cold and hungry."

It continued: "Please believe me when I say I haven’t done this easily.

"My dog means the world to me and I don’t know what else to do."

The RSPCA have searched for the dogs owner, but since no one has come forward, they are now looking to rehome Cracker with a new family.

A spokeswoman for the RSPCA told the BBC: "Unfortunately no-one has come forward to claim him and we've not been able to trace his previous owner so we will soon begin looking for a new home for him.

"I suspect he won't have to wait long to find a wonderful new family and I hope his former owner has seen all of the coverage and can take comfort from the fact that he's being well-looked after."

This winter the charity expects to take in more than 10,000 animals in need across England and Wales.