A dogs' home left ravaged by fire has reopened more than a year after the blaze, which left 60 animals dead.

Manchester Dogs' Home in Moss Bank Road, Harpurhey, was the target of a suspected arson attack on the evening of September 11, 2014.

People from across Greater Manchester - including countless well-wishers from Bolton - sprung into action to help after the fire. 

Leverhulme Park Community Centre, Long Lane, and Bolton Destitute Animal Shelter, Northolt Drive, set up drop-off points for people to deliver donations of food, leads, blankets and bowls.

Following an outpouring of generous donations of more than £2 million, the home has been able to open a temporary adoption facility where about 100 dogs are being cared for and awaiting a new home.

Two boys had been arrested over the "sickening" attack on the old Victorian kennels which opened in 1893, but were released without charge.

On the night of the incident, residents from the neighbouring estate rushed to help save many of the dogs from the kennels.

A total of 150 were rescued.

The majority of the surviving dogs had to be rehomed at sister site Cheshire Dogs' Home, with others needing veterinary treatment.

All the dogs were later adopted.

The home's manager, Steve Mapley, said that although the opening day was "bittersweet" and marred with memories of the fatal night, it was "business as usual".

A temporary facility has been built in a renovated block with new glass doors and underfloor heating.

Mr Mapley said: "It's been mixed emotions today because it is bringing everything back. It's the kind of thing that you can't escape but at the same time can't dwell on. It will not go away.

"We are concentrating on the dogs and concentrating on finding them a home. Finally we can let the public come down and see what dogs we have and hopefully they will get the home they deserve."

He said that upon finding out how much money had been raised, his first thought was "wow", adding "it's because we are a nation of dog lovers".

He added: "I have said it many, many times but thank you is not enough, we wouldn't have been able to have this facility without their help. We are trying to get back to business as usual but we still have a long way to go.

"Come see us and come find yourself a new best friend."

Plans for a new rehoming block has been submitted to planners.

Mr Mapley added: "We have such an amazing team here who have gone through so much."