Billericay resident Phil Bradley started a small Facebook group called “Billericay Dogs” and this has now grown to such an extent – nearly 6,000 members – that help has been given to local pets, their human owners and even the people and pets of Ukraine.

Phil came down to the studio to visit Bob Simpson on his regular Wednesday lunchtime show One 2 Three to explain all about it.

The cost of living crisis that we’re all facing has left many dog owners struggling to afford to feed themselves and their pets.  Also, animals are being surrendered to pet shelters at an alarming rate.

Phil asked that the next time you visit a foodbank donation point please think about donations for people’s pets as well as their owners.

Tesco Express in Meadow Rise, Billericay now has a specific donation point for pets, thanks to the good work of Billericay Dogs, but pet food donations can be made at any donation point for the Billericay Foodbank.

You can hear Phil’s interview again at phoenixfm.com and you can join the Billericay Dogs group on Facebook by visiting www.facebook.com/groups/271347016387549 or searching for “Billericay Dogs“.