AN artist has helped to raise hundreds of pounds for a Malvern charity through a special pet-inspired fundraiser.

A doggie portrait day, held at the White Stuff store in Worcester, saw pampered pooches queuing up to have their portrait drawn by local artist Zaza Shelley.

On the day more than 25 dogs had their portraits drawn, raising £445 for Malvern Special Families.

The charity provides clubs and play schemes to children and young people with disabilities aged between five and 19-years-old in between school hours in Malvern and Worcester.

It was set up in the 1980s in Malvern and has grown to support more than 120 families across Worcestershire.

The artist said: "This was such a fun way to raise money.

"It was something really different to my usual artwork and a brilliant way to raise awareness about this charity which provides play schemes for children with disabilities,”

Maria Munday, business manager at Malvern Special Families, said: “This was a lovely local fundraiser, thank you to everybody who supported the event.

"It was a really busy day and the owners were delighted with their artwork.

"My dog Sennen loved the experience and my son was delighted with the portrait of his favourite pooch.

"This year we are celebrating 30 years of our charity and so we are always on the lookout for new and innovative ways to fundraise like this.”