A POODLE-MAD couple whose dogs appear in films and at Crufts have dyed two of them pink for the festive season.

Marie and Derek Stoker own eight poodles and even have a customised caravan to ensure the dogs go on holiday with them.

The couple are well known in Twinstead as they are often seen the walking the dogs, with two proving particularly eye-catching.

Toy poodle Nichey is sporting pink fur, which was done using a vegetable-based dye, while standard poodle Tulula’s legs have been dyed pink.

Dad-of-two Derek, 48, said: “It is just fun and the dogs like the attention.’’ It is a semipermanent dye, specially formulated for dogs, and would simply grow out.

The couple, who began experimenting with the dye about four months ago, plan to branch out, with the next design making Nichey look like a panda.

In addition to running Marie and Derek’s Grooming Parlour in the village, the couple take part in the Kennel Club’s competitive obedience and will once again compete at Crufts with standard poodle Velma.

Tulula is also set to appear in Pudsey: the Movie, being released next year.