MORE than 100 dogs and their owners took a stroll in the park to raise money for a hospice charity.

The Butterwick Hospice held its newest fundraiser – Pooches in the Park – at Auckland Castle, in Bishop Auckland, yesterday.

As well as taking part in the 5km walk around the castle’s deer park, people also had the chance to enter their pets in fun classes and put them through a dog agility course, set by Stanley-based School of Dogs.

Butterwick fundraiser Milly Toner said: “It’s been really brilliant. We’ve had more than 100 dogs so it’s been really busy.

“There has been a really good atmosphere. Everyone is leaving with smiles on their faces and the dogs are wagging their tails.

“It’s been a successful day so hopefully we can make it an annual thing.”

The event was put on with help from Bishop Auckland Rotary.

There were also a number of fun dog classes, including prettiest pooch and a special one for Father’s Day – the daddy/dog look-a-like competition.

Lee Ferry, from School of Dogs, said: “We’re having a fantastic day. We’ve had 70 dogs try it out and it’s been amazing. The dogs have had a lot of fun and their owners seem to be having a good time as well.”

The event was sponsored by Trophy Pet Foods and Wilson’s Vets, in Bishop Auckland.