A NOVELTY competition for dog lovers will be held in the North-East this weekend.

The contest, at Ormesby Hall, Middlesbrough, includes categories for the fattest sausage-eating dog, the pooch with the best fancy dress costume, and the one with the waggiest tail.

Events assistant Sarah Allen said: "This is a fun day out all for dog owners and families.

"The contest is open to dogs, no matter what size age or breed. No dog is too ugly for this contest because we even have a prize for the dog with the saddest face."

Entry costs £3 for adults, £1.50 for children or £8 for a family ticket. National Trust members and dogs get in free.

The price includes entry to the Furrow to Furnace exhibition, which celebrates 150 years of Middlesbrough and includes a bridge building activity for children.