DOG owners have little more than three weeks to submit entries to the region's biggest canine show.

A total of 2,039 individual classes are open to entries for the Darlington Championship Dog Show, which takes place from Friday to Sunday, September 13 to 15.

This year's event will be the 34th championship show in its present form, and takes place at South Park, Darlington.

Darlington has hosted dog shows since 1860, and South Park was first used in 1891.

Hounds, terriers and utility groups will be held on the Friday, with working and pastoral groups on the Saturday and gundogs, toy groups and best in show in the Sunday.

A team of approximately 150 world renowned judges from as far afield as America, Finland and Israel, will be on hand to examine the exhibits.

Show chairman Maureen Hennis said: "The North-East of England is rich in canine heritage which is reflected in Darlington Dog Show, a show which caters for all people interested in the world of pedigree dogs.

"The show is known as a very friendly, efficient show and we welcome exhibitors and the general public alike."

Entries will be taken up until Tuesday, July 30.

For an entry form, send a stamped, addressed envelope to the secretary, Mrs FN Marshall, Darlington Championship Dog Show, 1 Butler Road, Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, DL5 5LU, or telephone Miss SD Allsopp on 0191-4162606.