A dog that became a celebrity after being found wandering starving in a Baldock street is to be a guest of honour at a carol concert tonight (Thursday). Named Rusty by staff at the Wood Green Animal Shelter in Godmanchester, Cambridegshire, the dog will m

A dog that became a celebrity after being found wandering starving in a Baldock street is to be a guest of honour at a carol concert tonight (Thursday).

Named Rusty by staff at the Wood Green Animal Shelter in Godmanchester, Cambridegshire, the dog will make a special appearance at the shelter's 22nd concert.

Vets and staff at the shelter were shocked when Rusty arrived five months ago saying it was the worst case of neglect they had ever seen.

When Rusty's story was printed in local newspapers including the Comet the public responded by sending thousands of pounds to the shelter to go towards his treatment.

Even now Christmas cards have been arriving addressed to Rusty and the shelter still gets phone calls from people asking about his recovery.

Rusty was given a new home by Jan Tufnail (correct) who is an auxiliary nurse at the shelter.

"He is such a loving dog and has made a marvellous recovery," said a member of staff at the shelter.

"He was in such a terrible state when he came in but now has a lot of hair and we are looking forward to him coming back here for our concert."

Around 1,000 people are expected to attend the event with many bringing their pets.

Dennis Baker, chief executive of Wood Green Animal Shelters, said: "The transformation in Rusty from when he was brought into us is incredible.

"We didn't think he would survive the neglect he had suffered and are delighted at the way he has improved.

"We were amazed at the response by the general public to Rusty's story and can't thank everyone enough for the support he received. It seems only right he should be the star of our carol concert so that people can see just how far he has come.