A dog who was left at a church with a note from his owner saying “I love you and I am so, so, so sorry” is to be reunited with his family.

The seven-year-old Staffie – temporarily named Cracker – was found tied up next to the altar at Sacred Heart Church in Blackpool just before Christmas with a note from his former owner that read: “Please believe me when I say I haven’t done this easily.

“My dog means the world to me and I don’t know what else to do. I’ve no home or money now for him. Life has taken a really bad turn for me and I couldn’t imagine him being outside with me cold and hungry. I love you and I am so, so, so sorry.”

Now the hound – whose real name is Rooney – is being looked after by local charity Street Paws while his owner Alison (who has asked for her surname not to be used) gets back on her feet.

RSPCA inspector Will Lamping collected the dog from the church and said: “Everyone has fallen in love with this little dog. The outpouring of support for him and the publicity his story has received resulted in us finding his owner.”

He added: “I’d like to thank everyone who has shared Rooney’s story, offered help and support to his owner, enquired about offering him a home and played a part in enabling us to reunite Alison and Rooney and get this lovely dog back home where he belongs.”

Street Paws founder Michelle Southern said: “Rooney’s story has really touched the hearts of the nation, but sadly it’s not uncommon.

“People who have no home are forced to make heartbreaking decisions to give up their pets as they have no other choice. 

“Street Paws is committed to keeping people in crisis and their pets together.  We offer support across the UK to relieve animal suffering by providing free of charge veterinary care and emergency kennel space to homeless people and those suffering the affects of extreme poverty. 

“We recognised Rooney when pictured in the media, and were relieved when his owner was found as she loves him very much.”