WE all might imagine winning the lottery at one time or another, but this was a reality for Lyneham couple Ruth and Peter Doyle, who won their million in the Euromillions lottery drawer of 2015.

The couple have since used their winnings to re-home unwanted dogs from Romania here in the UK. They have rescued 13 dogs who had been abandoned or left to die, including 18-month old Lily, seven years ago.

Ruth said: "Lily is very much the lady of the manor. She wakes up in the middle of the night to let me know she’s cold, knowing I’ll put another blanket over her, although she and Bailey are already wrapped up at bedtime each night. Lily often changes bed in the middle of the night too

She added: "We are now home-checkers for National Network Romania and spend time ensuring families and dogs are a fit for each other.

"I also volunteer at a dog walking charity whenever we are on holiday in Spain. It was here that we rescued a pretty pup we've named Karley, from a box by bins at a Sunday market. She really stole my heart. We have fostered her and will be bringing her back with us on our next visit.

"What's also wonderful is that it meant we could afford to get our rescue dog Bailey a much needed hip replacement just over two years ago.

"We love the fact we are making a difference to so many dogs that might otherwise be suffering unnecessarily."

The UK’s dog lovers celebrated the canine world’s finest pampered pooches at Crufts recently. Camelot’s Andy Carter, Senior Winners’ Advisor at The National Lottery, said: “There's a common theme among lottery winners and how they treat their canine friends and that’s the fact that no expense is spared when it comes to the genuine love and attention they are given.

"Nearly half, 42%, of all National lottery winners own a dog, so it comes as no surprise that they only want the best for their Man’s and Woman’s best friend."