THOUSANDS of Europe's best canines will gather for the North-East's biggest dog show this weekend.

The 36th annual Darlington Championship Dog Show will take place in South Park, with more than 9,000 pets ready to compete.

The event attracts dog owners from across Europe and some of the world's rarest breeds will be shown.

One hundred and fifty judges, who will travel to the town from as far away as Poland, Australia, South Africa and the US, will assess dogs in 2,074 classes.

There will also be numerous trade stands selling items including dog-themed jewellery.

The public can attend, but must not bring pets if they are not being exhibited.

Show chairman Maureen Hennis said: "It is a lovely day out. If anybody owns a dog, it is a lovely event to come along to and see all the gorgeous dogs.

"They really are the creme-de-la-creme of the dog world and it is quite special to see 60-odd rings all being judged at the same time."

Among the rare breeds being exhibited this year will be the bolognais, the Nova Scotia duck tolling retriever and the kooikerhondje and bracco Italiano gun dogs. Mrs Hennis said: "These breeds have exhibited at the Darlington show before, but the general public will never have seen them because they are so rare.

"It is a great chance to see some weird and wonderful dogs."

Perhaps even more popular will be the puppies performing for the first time.

This year, bull mastiff, greyhound and Bernese mountain puppies will take to the stage at the event.

Judging at the show will start at 9.30am tomorrow with hounds, terriers and utility groups. The working and pastoral groups will be exhibited on Saturday, and gun dogs and toy groups will be shown on Sunday.

The Best in Show section is expected to take place at about 5.30pm on Sunday.

Entry to the public is from 7am each day and costs £5, and £3 for children.