Ever Decreasing Circles actor and animal lover Peter Egan helped launch a brand new dog pound where Hackney’s stray and abandoned canines will be kept.

Hackney Gazette: Peter Egan, right, at the launch of the new kennels at Hackney dog pound with "T", who manages it.Peter Egan, right, at the launch of the new kennels at Hackney dog pound with "T", who manages it. (Image: Archant)

Each of the 10 kennels in the compound off Millfields Road, Lower Clapton, will be given a name chosen by pupils from nearby Mandeville Primary School, who also attended the launch last Friday.

The children took part in a competition to design a mural which will be painted on the side of the kennels, with the winning design drawn by nine-year-old Gerald Lawrence.

Mr Egan, who also appears in ITV drama Downton Abbey, said: “I’m really excited and moved as animals really need this.

“I think Hackney leads the way in dealing with stray animals. It’s great that local school children are involved, as we need them to become the responsible pet owners of the future.”

At a cost of £150,000 the 10 draught-free, chew-proof kennels are individually heated and thermostatically controlled and have 24-hour security.

They include a large bed area and individual exercise area for each dog as well as a large external exercise area.

There is secure access directly onto the canal tow path next to Hackney Marshes for the council’s 35 volunteer dog walkers.