A DORSET charity has defended itself against what it calls the "biased and unbalanced view" of a BBC programme after it was criticised over training methods.

Co-founder of Verwood-based Woofability, Andy Clarke, has hit back against claims of the Inside Out regional programme that the charity - which provides assistance dogs to people with disabilities - had "old fashioned" training methods.

"The BBC Inside Out Programme has deliberately created a biased and unbalanced view of the activities of Woofability," said Mr Clarke.

"The two negative stories featured were from two or more years ago and in no way reflects the experiences of our 31 successful partnerships, whose lives have been changed for the better through the efforts and expertise of our staff and volunteers."

Inside Out followed a report from multiple sclerosis sufferer Judith Endersby that her dog CJ was not properly trained.

Animal behaviourist Roger Mugford visited Woofability with a BBC camera crew and, on the programme, said the level of training was "absolutely not good enough".

Mr Clarke said the charity has sought membership for Assistance Dogs International and the UK but to no avail.

"Dr Roger Mugford is not independent, he has close associations with ADI/ADUK members as a trustee or vice patron. Although membership of ADI/ADUK is not obligatory, we did contact them three months ago to enquire about membership but have yet to receive a meaningful response," he added.

"We operate to the highest welfare standards and welcome visits from supporters and potential funders who are able to satisfy themselves that their funding is being used wisely to train more dogs for disabled children and adults and children with Autism and Down’s Syndrome.

"Woofability is not a member of Assistance Dogs International but we do train our dogs to exceed ADI requirements.

"For a more balanced view we would ask you to refer to our Woofability Assistance Dogs Facebook page where television clips from BBC South and ITV Meridian feature CJ who was one of the subjects of complaint."

A BBC spokesman said: “This was a balanced documentary which included hard evidence to support the points being made, an independent expert, as well as a right of reply from the animal charity Woofability, so we stand by our journalism.”