Charlie, the ugliest dog in Sussex, has won the hearts of our readers.

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) has been inundated with calls offering the shar-pei a home since he appeared in Friday's paper.

Workers at the Mount Noddy Animal Rescue Centre in Chichester feared Charlie, who has an odour problem and poor eyesight after being neglected by his former owner, could be overlooked in favour of prettier pets.

The RSPCA started to look for a new home for the dog after his owner was prosecuted for causing him unnecessary suffering.

A spokesman for the charity said: "We had lots of calls about Charlie but many were from people who don't know much about shar-peis or have other dogs. Charlie needs to be on his own."

One family with experience of the breed is interested in offering him a home but will have to undergo checks.

They will meet the pooch before the charity will consider them as potential owners.

RSPCA inspector Barbara Kvalheim said Charlie had a wonderful temperament.

She said: "His sight is not good and he does smell a bit so he will need to be bathed at least once a week to keep him clean and ticking over.

"He is ugly and looks a bit like a hippo but he is a lovely dog and needs lots of care and attention. He will make a wonderful pet.

It could take up to three weeks before any home is considered suitable for Charlie.

Anyone interested should call the centre on 01243 773359.