A COMMUNITY which came together to rescue its newest four legged celebrity joined up again to celebrate the happy ending.

The story of a missing pet gripped Mersea island and the generosity of residents not just helped save nine-year-old Ella, a pet Labrador, but could help save lives with £1,268 donated to West Mersea RNLI in recognition of their efforts.

On Saturday dozens of dog walkers joined Ella and her owners to retrace her paw prints along the route she is believed to have taken on Thursday, January 5.

On that day Ella, owned by Tyson Burns-Green, went missing after escaping from her home.

It is understood she was struck by a car and, despite numerous rumours of sightings, she ran off when approached.

Three days later, and with dozens of people now joining the search she was spotted near Ray Island and flushed out by Labrador Trigger.

Ella then went swimming across to Packing Shed Island and was cut off by volunteers and rescuers, including the RNLI, who managed to reunite her with a relieved owner.

Blackwater Vets opened specially to help and treated Ella for severe dehydration.

Speaking after the rescue Mr Burns-Green, 47, said: “There are just so many people we have to thank for their help. Without them, I am convinced we just wouldn’t have found her.

“I was convinced she was dead. I was convinced after she had been hit by the car, had bolted and had bled to death somewhere while hiding out."

Six days later many of those who helped and followed the story of her disappearance met for a thank you walk.

To donate to the RNLI crew visit bit.ly/2i8MJlC