Ozzy’s the new pup on The Street!

FANS OF Coronation Street will no doubt have enjoyed the arrival of Labrador puppy, Ozzy in a storyline that saw hairdresser Maria Sutherland (played by Samia Smith) give the puppy as a gift to factory owner Liam Connor (Rob James Collier).

In real-life, Ozzy belongs to dog expert Anne Lunt, who has 40 years’ experience in the canine world, and is secretary of Ashton-under-Lyne & District Kennel Association (DKA). Anne and her extended family own 17 dogs – mainly Bulldogs, but also Giant Schnauzers and Great Danes.
Anne is currently spending up to four hours a day with Ozzy on the Coronation Street set, for the hectic filming schedule in the run-up to Christmas. She looks after him throughout the day and ensures that he’s happy and comfortable.

According to Anne, he’s taken to his new life like a duck to water. “He seems to be loving every minute of it,” she said. “He’s a real hit on set and is very spoiled. Samia and Rob, his main co-stars, are dog-lovers and they adore him, and most of the other cast members make a fuss of him too. I hope he’ll be a hit with viewers, and enjoy a long and successful soap career!”