A THERAPY dog from Redditch whose owner died of cancer is bringing joy to people with learning disabilities and autism.

Alfie, a Shetland sheepdog also known as a Sheltie, was brought home by Dimensions locality manager Janet Lancaster for her 21-year-old son James' birthday.

The pair were became friends, but a year later, James was diagnosed with terminal liver cancer.

After James died, aged 23, on March 31, 2014, Alfie began training to be a therapy dog.

Janet asked her boss if it would be possible to get Alfie involved with the charity, which provides housing and outreach support to people living with learning difficulties.

The request was readily accepted, and now Janet and Alfie visit Dimensions tenants in Redditch and Bromsgrove outside of Janet’s work hours.

"Some of the people we support requested 'fun time' with Alfie after a person we support in that scheme passed away and they felt sad," a Dimensions spokesman said.

"One person we support is shy and did not mix in group sessions. Suddenly they began joining in when Alfie was there and specifically asked for their picture taken with him.

"One service user used to become extremely worried about attending meetings. When Alfie is with them, they now attend meetings happily."

Ms Lancaster, who lives in Redditch, said: "It’s a happy, relaxed atmosphere with lots of laughter when Alfie visits.

"The people we support forget about everyday life, anxieties and worries and enjoy some fun time with Alfie.

"People we support can choose to spend time with Alfie either in their own flats or in a communal hub area.

"He can look forward to receiving lots of attention, playing fetch with his favourite ball and also spending some quiet time with residents."

The Sheltie is able to adapt how he acts around people depending on the instructions given to him by Janet.

Ms Lancaster said: "When he has his lead on, he is quiet, follows instructions and is quick to gauge what is expected.

"For those who are more elderly or frail, he sits whilst they stroke him and will roll over and let them tickle his tummy, which residents love to do.

"Others love to throw his fluffy ball in the house and he retrieves it."

In the future Janet is planning to use Alfie to encourage healthier lifestyles by allowing people to help walk him.