Bid for a date with top model David Gandy

David Gandy, the world’s most in-demand male model, announced that he is putting himself up for auction to go on a one-on-one dogwalk with a fan to raise money for Battersea Dogs and Cats Home.

Gandy, who is a patron of the charity, is one of a number of celebrity dog lovers who are taking part in the online auction, which goes live on October 31.

The auction is in support of the Battersea’s Collars & Coats Gala Ball, on November 7, to be hosted by Britain’s Got Talent judge Amanda Holden and presenter and comedian Paul O’Grady at Battersea Park's Evolution.

Gandy, 33, from Billericay, Essex, shot to fame as Dolce and Gabbana’s muse and face of the Light Blue fragrance 2007 ad campaign and is often referred to as the most beautiful man in the world.

He said: “I can often be found at Battersea Dogs and Cats Home with the rescue dogs, visiting and helping out. As their Ambassador, I like to support however I can and to share this experience with someone and raise much needed funds at the same time, is a pleasure. Giving fans the chance to walk a Battersea dog with someone they would like to meet, is a great way to do this and lots of well known people have come together to make it happen.”

The proud dog lover says that although he likes all animals, dogs are his favourite.

He said recently: “My love and admiration for dogs can and never will be denied. They’re my favourite creatures - and this from a person who has been within inches of gorillas, held baby orang-utans, swam with giant turtles and last year was a little too close for comfort to a pride of male lions".

“Don’t get me wrong - I see the tremendous appeal of cats. They fend for themselves, they are not dependent on us, they clean themselves, feed themselves and take themselves for walks. And I do love them, but for me the dog still comes out top, by a whisker.”

Claire Horton, chief executive at Battersea, said: “Walking a Battersea dog with David Gandy sounds like a dream come true and we can’t wait to reveal the other famous dog walkers who will be offering this incredible money can’t buy experience.

“I promise they’ll be in hot demand. The support from our amazing Ambassador and the many fantastic celebrity supporters who are passionate about Battersea is so crucial in helping raise awareness of the animals in our care.”

Battersea Dogs and Cats home costs more than £18 million a year to run. Last year nearly 9,000 dogs and cats needed the charity’s care and help to find them new homes.

Tickets for Collars & Coats Gala ball can be purchased by calling 020 7627 9309 and further information can be seen at collarsandcoats.org.uk

Source: Standard.co.uk