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'Britain's most unloved dog' is still searching for a new home - after spending 11 YEARS in kennels.

Maggie the whippet-cross had just turned one when she was abandoned by a large family who could no longer cope with a pet in 2003.

The dog was taken in by staff at the Serendipity Kennels in Cellarhead, Staffs.

But despite several appeals to match her with a family, no-one has come forward despite being overlooked by around 50,000 potential owners.

The 13-year-old dog has been at the centre for so long that she's been through three managers and dozens of dog handlers.

(Image: SWNS)

Now, dog rescue and re-homing charity Animal Lifeline are making a last-ditch effort to find her a home to live out her twilight years in comfort.

Dog handler Carmen Hammond, 54, said she remembered first meeting Maggie who was no longer wanted by her owners because they had five children.

She believes the ideal home for the whippet-cross would be an older couple who have 15 minutes a day to take her on a gentle walk.

(Image: SWNS)

Today, Carmen said: "The pup had clearly had an accident because there was a metal pin in her leg. I instantly took a liking to her, though.

"It's heartbreaking to see how she is now grey and old no-one has come forward to give her a home.

"But she's not the only dog who has been here for a long time. Many have spent their whole lives here, then died in the kennels as well.

"It would be very sad to see Maggie go the same way.

(Image: SWNS)

"She is great company so would be perfect for anyone who is a little lonely.

"She loves her walks, but she is also very gentle.

"She is a very loving dog who would be very loyal towards an owner.

"If only she could have a few last happy years sitting in front of somebody's fire, that would mean the world to me.

"All too often dogs get too used to the staff here and become shy.

(Image: SWNS)

"At the moment we are also getting a lot of Staffordshire bull terriers handed into us.

"They get a get a bad press so people usually avoid them."

Dog handler Nicky Hawkins, 20, said: "The problem is, she doesn't sell herself. She barks at new people but that doesn't mean she isn't friendly.

"Her past has made her fearful, but inside she's a lovely laid-back animal."