Two first-class rescue dogs from Croydon will be going postal in special edition stamps.

Boris the Bulldog and Casey the Lurcher had the competition licked when they were picked as models to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.

Boris came into Battersea as a stray in 2007, suffering with a very bad skin condition meaning he had to be bathed regularly.

He was fostered to a home in Croydon to help him settle into a normal routine and help him recover.

Casey came to the home when his owner became too ill to care for him.

He quickly made a name for himself as a very handsome hound and like Boris, was fostered, but after a month his foster family had fallen in love with him and decided to keep him.

He loves long walks with his new friend Ollie, the Border Collie, chasing toys and giving squirrels a run for their money.

The pair were photographed with eight other dogs and cats by animal photographer Steve Hoskins. He aimed to capture the character and dignity of the one-time abandoned pets.

The owners played their part in ensuring that the two dogs were on their best behaviour, however the use of a 'Ham Wrangler' offering tempting slices of meat also proved very effective at keeping the canine models focused.

Howard Bridges, Chief Executive of Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, said: "A set of specially commissioned stamps in our honour is a huge privilege.

"Everyone at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home is thrilled and the final images truly capture the character of the animals chosen.

"Since 1860, Battersea Dogs & Cats Home has worked tirelessly to care for and rehome over three million dogs and cats, and the stamps are an excellent way to celebrate 150 years of dedicated care."