An elderly dog who was abandoned on the side of the A47 in Norfolk has had his very own Christmas miracle after finding his forever home in time for the holiday.

Cyril the 10-year-old Yorkie was dumped on the side of the busy road near King's Lynn back in November. 

Luckily, he was rescued by a passerby and later came into the care of the RSPCA West Norfolk Branch, which also runs the Eau Brink Animal Centre.  

Cyril was extremely nervous and shy after this traumatic ordeal but after weeks of love and attention he soon gained back his confidence.

Eastern Daily Press: Cyril was dumped by the side of the A47 near King's Lynn back in NovemberCyril was dumped by the side of the A47 near King's Lynn back in November (Image: RSPCA)

And now he’s got a home to call his own after the rev Eleanor Whalley, vicar of Soham, decided to adopt him just in time for Christmas. 

Ms Whalley started looking for a new doggie companion after she lost her beloved terrier Belle, who passed away aged 14. 

She had been looking on the RSPCA Eau Brink’s website and when she spotted Cyril she knew it was meant to be.

After some successful meet and greets, the adoption was finalised and Cyril was welcomed into the vicarage and the parish of Soham. 

Ms Whalley said: "Cyril has settled in so well.

"He is just full of happiness and he’s really enjoying himself and taking in the sights and sounds of Soham. 

"He’s fast becoming a little celebrity and now he’s got his new family with me and the parishioners of Soham.

"His first official engagement was attending our Christmas tree festival and he took it all in his stride and was as good as gold. 

Eastern Daily Press: Eleanor Whalley, vicar of Soham, with Cyril Eleanor Whalley, vicar of Soham, with Cyril (Image: Eleanor Whalley)

"He won’t come to every service with me - I think he’ll be bored - but he will attend our pet service in the New Year. 

"Even though he’s 10 he’s turned out to be very youthful in his character and I hope he will become a real ambassador for rescue dogs and rescue centres. 

Carl Saunders, manager for the branch, added: "Sometimes rehoming older dogs can prove more difficult but it was clear to see that Eleanor and Cyril were a perfect match. 

"It’s always wonderful to see a rescue pet thriving in their new home with their own loving family - but the fact Cyril will bring such joy to a large community is just heart-warming.

Eastern Daily Press: Cyril has found his forever home in time for ChristmasCyril has found his forever home in time for Christmas (Image: Eleanor Whalley)

"His story is a little Christmas miracle."

If you are considering adopting a rescue pet please visit the branch website to see other dogs and animals looking for their forever homes.