Lead of the Rings: Billy Boyd visits Dogs Trust

Lord of the Rings star Billy Boyd dropped into a dog shelter yesterday – and almost made off with a pup called Pippin.

Billy Boyd met EmmaLouise Livingston and Pippin when he popped in to the Dogs Trust at Uddingston. Picture: Hemedia

Visiting the Dogs Trust in Uddingston, the 46-year-old Scots actor – who lost his own spaniel recently – fell in love with aptly named four-year-old border collie Bilbo and terrier puppy Pippin.

Billy, who sings on the soundtrack to the third Hobbit film, released on Friday, said staff hope his visit will help raise awareness of their plight.

He said: “I’m a huge dog lover so it’s been a real pleasure meeting Bilbo and Pippin. Just like the real Bilbo Baggins he seems like a fantastic character – I hope he finds a new family in time for Christmas. Sadly I recently lost my beloved spaniel but have met so many terrific dogs I’d love to take home and am looking forward to bringing my family to meet them when we are ready for another.”

The Dogs Trust’s Emma-Louise Livingston said: “We’re all huge fans.”