HUNDREDS of pets, along with their owners, descended on Darlington’s South Park for a special fundraising event.

People took full advantage of the spring sunshine to take part in Bark in the Park and raise vital funds for St Teresa’s Hospice.

A wide variety of dogs, ranging from collies to whippets and bulldogs to pugs, were even joined in the park by the odd cat on a lead as everyone took part in the walk.

The walk followed a gentle one mile route and featured a ‘have a go’ dog agility course. A wheelchair friendly option was also available.

And it was an extra special day for 12-year-old Benson the Beagle who was diagnosed with soft tissue sarcoma, a cancer which affects the tissue and nerves, which sadly resulted in the amputation of his front right leg.

The loveable pet was joined by his owner Niki Walker, who had registered the pooch and his Labrador brother Dufus, for the walk.

For more information about the charity’s work call 01325-254321 or email events@darlingtonhospice.org.uk