A DOG lover is hoping to take her fund-raising total past £500 when she does her fourth sponsored dog walk.

Fiona Elliott, from Gilesgate, Durham, will do St Cuthbert’s Hospice Paws for a Cause event with her Labrador Bodie on Sunday, October 12.

The hospital health care assistant, said: "We both love Paws for a Cause. We raise over £100 each time.

“I take round the sponsor form to my family, friends and work colleagues and then anyone else who’s willing to donate any money.

“We've raised around £375 to £400 so far and we hope to pass £500 this time.

“It's a fab event where you can meet new people who share the same passion as you, for raising not only money but awareness too. “

Last year 120 dogs and around 300 people took part in the event, which this year will be at the Riverside Park, Chester le Street.

Hannah Bunce, The hospice’s events co-ordinator , said: “We are so grateful to Fiona and all our supporters who come out each year for Paws for a Cause.

“They do have a lot of fun and the dogs seem to enjoy themselves. The idea is to have some canine capers in a good cause.”

As well as the 1.5m or 3m dog walk, there will be competitions including Cutest Dog,Dog Most Like Its Owner, Best Fancy Dress Dog and Best in Show.

The event starts at 10am. Entry is £10 per dog. For more information visit www.stcuthbertshospice.com