A FRAIL pensioner is asking for a volunteer to help take her beloved pet dog out for walkies.

Jacqueline Drew, of Spratt Hall Road in Wanstead, had a heart attack two months ago plus hip and knee replacements, and so finds it difficult to take Yorkshire terrier Emma out for regular exercise.

The 80-year-old great grandmother-of-two has therefore asked if anyone in the area could spare a little time to give her favourite companion a run-around.

She said: “I can't walk and I've got an electric scooter which I've got to use. I've got a lady who comes out on a Wednesday for half and hour, but I really would like her to have more exercise.

“She's so lovely and such a good dog even though she really doesn't like cats.

“She was my husband's dog but he passed away last year aged 82. He used to take her out and walk in the park but couldn't do too much as he had emphysema.

“I worry about her as I've heart attack just two months ago and I've had a hip replacement which dislocated three times and had both knees replaced.

“Emma has also had an operation and is 12 now. She's a loving dog and likes affection and all she wants is a bit of love.

“She loves people and tells me that someone's at the door and makes a fuss of everyone who come in.”

Mrs Drew, who moved to Wanstead after working in the City as a BT operator for 22 years, said she had witnessed a lot of change in her neighbourhood.

She added: “I love Wanstead but it has deteriorated since I first moved here. There's a lot more crime about.”

Mrs Drew is being helped by The Cinnamon Trust - the only specialist national charity for people in their last years and their much-loved companion animals.

Call 01736 757900 if you think you can spare any time to help.