A PINK poodle was the star attraction during a charity collection in Colchester.

Poppy the poodle’s fur was dyed the eye-popping colour by owner and dog groomer Frankie Rawlings. The 19-year-old, of Lake Walk, Clacton, hoped her pet’s new look would be a unique way of raising cash for Cancer Research UK .

Frankie said: “I know people who have passed away from cancer and I thought it would be something different to do. The Cancer Research adviser said they had never had anyone do this before.”

Frankie is still counting the cash from Friday’s collection and is planning a second one in Clacton town centre soon. Poppy was adopted by Frankie three years ago after her previous owner no longer wanted her.