The first dating event will take place on 10 May

Jo Barr, from RSPCA South West, came up with the idea after meeting her fiance on an website where her profile stressed "love me love my dog".

"We know that there are a lot of single dogs owners out there," she said.

The first of series of dating events in Devon will take place on 10 May at the Twisted Oak pub near Ide. It is open to anyone over 18 - and their dogs.

Dog creche

Ms Barr said: "We have already sold tickets to men and women all over Devon but it would be nice to have even more people attending what should be a really fun night.

"You don't have to have a dog to take part, just like them and be happy to meet single people who also love dogs."

To make sure animals do not get bored or restless during the evening there will be also be a free creche run by RSPCA staff and volunteers.

All the money raised from the Lead Me To Love event will go towards the RSPCA South and South West regional campaign to improve the quality of life for rabbits in the region through a hutch amnesty.