MORE than 160 dogs have been given identity microchips free of charge in West Devon in the past three months as part of a 'roving' service for communities.

West Devon Borough Council's Connect roadshow has teamed up with the animal welfare charity, Dogs Trust, to provide the money saving offer in towns and villages across the borough.

This April, there is another chance to get dogs microchipped free of charge at Hatherleigh and Spreyton on Tuesday, April 1.

The procedure normally costs around £20 and by 2016 it will be compulsory for dogs to have a microchip.

Cllr Robert Oxborough, the borough council's community services chair, said: 'Our partnership with Dogs Trust has been very successful and we are delighted with the numbers of dog owners coming forward.

'But this free offer won't last forever so my advice is to go to one of the microchipping sessions on April 1 to make sure you don't miss out.'

Free advice and information about a range of council, public, support and charitable services is also on offer at the roadshow.

Among the experts joining the service this April are Action on Hearing Loss, Oakhouse Foods, Citizens Advice Bureau and Parklands Leisure Centre at Okehampton.

Every session is hosted by an advisor from the borough council who can answer questions on topics including council tax, recycling, benefits and housing.

The Connect roadshow dates for April are: April 1 — Hatherleigh Market, 9.30am to noon, with free microchipping and Citizens Advice Bureau; April 1 – Spreyton Village Hall, 2pm to 3.30pm, with free microchipping; April 11 – Chagford Library, 10.30am to 12.30pm, with Oakhouse Foods; April 15 – Hatherleigh Market, 9.30am to noon, with Action on Hearing Loss and Citizen's Advice Bureau; April 25, Chagford Library —10.30am to 12.30pm, with Action on Hearing Loss.

For more information about the West Devon Connect roadshows visit http://www.westdevon.gov.uk">www.westdevon.gov.uk or call 01822 813600.