proved they have big hearts by turning out en masse to help save the life of a poorly dog.

More than 100 people and 70 dogs turned out for the Angel Appeal Walk at Langdon Hills Country Park.

The event, which raised the staggering sum of almost £4,000, was organised by animal lovers at Brunswick Kennels, in Laindon, who have been looking after crossbreed dog Angel since she was rescued last month.

Angel suffers from a severe disfigurement which means both her front legs are painfully crooked.

It is not known how the pet came to get the painful condition, but it is thought it was born out of neglect from her past owner.

The sponsored walk was held so Angel can get a series of life-saving operations to correct her deformity. The complex procedure is likely to cost up to £8,000.

Toni Healy, of Brunswick Kennels and organiser of the Angel Appeal Walk, said: “We were thrilled with the number of people who showed up to take part.

“There were people there who had heard about Angel’s plight through the Echo, or even just by talking to their neighbours.

“It goes to show how much people in Basildon care about animals.”

Angel has now had one operation, but several more procedures are needed before she can walk properly and without being in pain.

Toni added: “The operation was to correct her left leg, which is much worse than the other one, but she will need more.

“This money has to come from somewhere, that’s why we launched the Angel Appeal.

“To raise £4,000 through a sponsored walk is just terrific.”