THE shout of "walkies" could be heard loud and clear along a stretch of the North-East coast yesterday as dog lovers gathered for a fun day.

The event, at Saltburn in east Cleveland, was organised by Sara (Saltburn Animal Rescue Association) and took place in the Victorian town's Valley Gardens.

The sponsored dogs and their walkers left Saltburn bandstand for a half-hour walk and raised money for Sara funds.

Sheila Green, publicity officer for Sara, said: "The aim of the fun day was to show that responsible owners care for their pets, and also to highlight the work of Sara, and to raise money towards the building of an animal sanctuary."