FROM rags to riches that is the real life story of one lucky dog who is now living in the lap of luxury.

Holly, an 18-month-old cross breed, was just hours from being put down when she was rescued and given a new lease of life.

She has now swapped living rough on the streets of Wales to living it up at a Belgravia mansion after the Chiltern Dog Rescue Centre plucked her from a dog pound.

The centre heard of her plight and rushed to help, even though their kennels were full, and Holly has now been given a new home by a multi-millionaire Egyptian diplomat.

The diplomat decided he wanted another dog and took on Holly after visiting the centre.

She will now be dividing her time between his mansion in Belgravia, London, and the prestigious Elmwood Hotel for Dogs in The Lee, near Chartridge.

John Burton, the owner of the hotel for dogs, said: "Holly has gone from rags to riches. She now gets to go into London and stay with him in Belgravia and gets to stay with us when he goes away on business. I bet she doesn't know what has happened to her."

Mr Burton told the diplomat about Holly after he requested for another dog to stay at the hotel with his Labrador, August.

He added: "She loves running around the mansion. She is such a sweet dog and loves playing with the others. Holly is a lucky girl."

Sara Muncke, the office manager for the Chilterns Dog Rescue Centre, in Ashley Green, said: "She is going to be really spoiled. I am so pleased she has found a good home. She is so affectionate. All the dog walkers used to ask for her.

"She was very lucky to be re-homed. So many have to get put down so we try to have as many transferred to us [from Wales] as possible.

"At the moment the centres are very busy and we are full to overflowing. We even have our fosterers looking after the dogs."

To give a dog a much needed home, call the Chilterns Dog Rescue Centre, on 01442 876009