Ex-stray named as Blue Peter dog

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A nine-month-old former stray puppy called Barney has been named as the latest Blue Peter dog.

The crossbreed puppy was given to presenter Helen Skelton by Dogs Trust. He had been taken to one of the charity's re-homing centres.

The Dogs Trust's chief executive Clarissa Baldwin said Barney had "immediately impressed staff with his winning personality".

Previous dogs on the BBC One show have included Petra, Shep and Goldie.

Ms Baldwin said Dogs Trust staff knew straight away that "charming little pup" Barney was "destined to be a star".

"We wish Barney and Helen all the very best and we all look forward to keeping up with their exciting adventures each week on the show," she said.

Blue Peter, first shown in 1958, has featured a string of pets including parrots and tortoises.