Radcliffe Animal Shelter is launching a new project known as 'read and relax' and is looking for volunteers with a difference.

Assistant manager Ella Herring from the RSPCA describes human contact as one of the most enriching parts of a shelter dog's day and just as exercise is important so is in-kennel contact with people.

The overall purpose of read and relax is to decrease arousal and stress levels of dogs on the adoption floor as potential adopters pass by. The aim is to teach dogs to remain calm in the presence of people and help them enjoy the company of humans without having to be the centre of attention. By encouraging dogs to become accustomed to 'down time' it prepares them for going into a home and is a key element for success.

Volunteers must be aged 18 and over and be comfortable around dogs. They will spend around 20 to 30 minutes reading books of their choice aloud to individual dogs in kennels. Enquiries can be made to RSPCA Radcliffe Animal Shelter, Nottingham Road, Radcliffe on Trent, NG12 2DW.