THEY’RE often described as man’s best friend – and Peter Ansell’s story is testimony to the mantra.

In 2003, the 69-year-old was a volunteer walker at the Felixstowe Blue Cross rescue centre where he formed a close bond with a lively springer spaniel called Henry.

Mr Ansell would spend hours walking the energetic dog, who was at the centre waiting to be re-homed.

So fond of Henry did he become that the pensioner – who has a passion for art – decided to paint a portrait of the handsome mutt.

Mr Ansell stumbled across the piece while clearing out a spare room – and now he hopes to find Henry and his owners to present them with the picture.

“Dozens of times I walked Henry along the Candlet track to the picnic site where he would jump upon my lap in the hope of sharing my lunch,” said Mr Ansell, of Little Hill, Great Bricett.

“I became very fond of Henry and seriously considered becoming his new owner which is when I did this painting.

“My problem was that as he was a springer spaniel he had a seemingly endless supply of energy and I couldn’t see how I could provide all the exercise he should have.”

Eventually Henry, who was around three at the time, found new owners and Mr Ansell never saw his walking chum again.

“I was moving items in my spare room and came across this painting – I thought that a much more appropriate place for it would be on the wall of his current owner.

“I believe Henry would be about 11 years old so there is a real chance he is still going strong.”

If you can help Mr Ansell, call the newsdesk on 01473 324790.

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