Famous for his kimono and towel wearing combo on ITV’s Love Island, Chris Taylor, visited homeless cats and dogs at national pet charity Blue Cross hoping to prove you don’t need to travel to an exotic island to find love.

The 28-year-old animal lover, who was building his own canine business before finding fame on the popular show, chose to spend time with pets who are yet to find their perfect partner at Blue Cross rehoming centre in Lewknor.

Chris cuddled his way around the centre meeting lots of pets who’ve all lost their homes and families. Waggy-tailed pooches and tiny, fluffy kittens were excited to have some company whilst they patiently wait for their forever homes.

Barney, a 10-year-old Staffie crossbreed, was treated to a walk with Chris before cuddles were shared with Shih Tzu Dustin, who’s back looking for a new home after his owner’s change of circumstance.

Self-confessed dog lover Chris also spent time socialising with a litter of kittens who were found in a shed with their stray mother.

Chris said: “Pets are the best, they give you all the love you could ask for and they don’t ask for anything.

“Rehoming a rescue pet is such an amazing thing to do, you’d be giving a pet a new lease of life, that’s rewarding enough, let alone how much they give back to you for saving them. Visiting the Blue Cross centre has shown me that I didn’t even need to go to the villa to find love – it’s right here.”

Hannah Owen, Animal Welfare Assistant at Blue Cross said: “We know all the pets in our care deserve all the love possible because the love they give is unconditional.

“Sometimes rescue pets have had such a hard start to life so it’s wonderful when people like Chris can come and spend some time with them and shine a light on how wonderful starting a relationship with a rehomed pet can be.”