A GENEROUS eight-year-old boy donated some of his birthday money to buy gifts for rescue animals in Dorset.

Archie McCormick, from Corfe Mullen, made the decision to buy and donate gifts to Margaret Green Animal Rescue (MGAR) as his pet cat Ollie was rescued from the Church Knowle centre.

Archie’s parents re-homed Ollie over eight years ago, and when Archie was born the pair soon became the best of friends.

Archie’s mum, Melissa, said: “Archie wanted to buy and donate gifts to the animals as a thank you to MGAR for taking Ollie in so that we could rehome him. He also wanted to help all the animals currently in their care and so donated gifts for cats, dogs, goats and more.” She added: “We love coming to see the animals at Church Knowle - well done to everyone who makes MGAR a success.”

Jenni Wilkinson, commercial manager, said: “Archie has made a really selfless and generous decision choosing to support our animals over having presents, his parents must be very proud. I’d like to say a personal thank you to Archie and to his family for giving Ollie the best possible life in a happy forever home.”