A DOG story got a happy ending when a group of real rovers returned.

Andrea Hincliffe's classy canine Bailey gave birth to eight pedigree cocker spaniel pups last December.

Before the youngsters were sent to new homes all the owners agreed to keep in touch and a year later the dog devotees met up for a first birthday party.

Hairdresser Andrea, 43, from Netherton, said: "I was heartbroken to say goodbye to all the pups last year.

"But myself and the new owners have stayed in contact so it was great to get the dogs back together again."

The dogs, mum Bailey and pups Molly, Saffy, Luca, Baxter, Jarvis, Alfie, Molly (again) and Harvey, took a special walk with their owners - and acted like old friends.

Mrs Hinchliffe added: "They were great.

"There was no fighting, they all got on wonderfully.

"We enjoyed it so much we are going to do it again for their next birthday, if not before."

* Cocker spaniels are one of the oldest types of spaniels.

* Originated in Spain and used for hunting.

* Recognised as separate breed by Kennel Club in 1892.

* Cocker Spaniel Club formed in 1902 and now has 1,500 members in the UK.

* The dogs are said to have a merry nature with an ever-wagging tail.