Wirral’s golden girl Sam Quek took a tour around Dogs Trust Merseyside to help find “forever homes” for the furry residents.

Sam was shown around the centre before meeting some of the four-legged guests including a 15-week-old Bernese Mountain Dog who she named Rio.

Arriving at the centre a day earlier, Rio had been imported illegally from Poland enduring a journey of nearly 1,000 miles before being intercepted and taken into quarantine.

Dogs Trust has an ongoing investigation into puppy smuggling and has provided care and support for Rio through her time in quarantine and will now help find her a loving home.

Sam said: “I really enjoyed visiting Dogs Trust Merseyside and meeting lots of the dogs looking for homes, and the dedicated team who look after them.

“I was delighted to be asked to name one of the puppies they are currently looking for a home for, who is now known as Rio, and hope she’s able to find her forever home soon.”

Assistant manager at Dogs Trust Merseyside Jake Flatman added: “It was brilliant to meet Sam. Having watched the incredible Olympic final it was great to welcome her here and introduce her to some of our lovely dogs.

“Our Bernese Mountain pup definitely suits the name Rio and when she heads off to her forever home she’s bound to be a great success.”