TWO television favourites have given their backing to a hospice’s sponsored dog walk.

ITV North East Tonight presenters Pam Royle and Philippa Tomson took their dogs to St Cuthbert’s Hospice, in Durham City, to show their support for the Paws for a Cause fundraiser.

Ms Tomson helped launch the hospice’s first Paws for a Cause last year, with her pet Tibetan terrier, BG.

This year, she was supported by Ms Royle, who was with her springer spaniel, Lola.

Ms Tomson said: “I thoroughly enjoyed the event last year – it was such a spectacle to see more than a hundred dogs united for a good cause, so I can’t recommend it enough as a wonderful fundraising challenge for friends, families, colleagues and their pets.” Ms Royle said: “I think a sponsored dog walk is an excellent and enjoyable way to raise money. It’s good to know that the funds raised through Paws for a Cause will make a difference and improve the quality of life for people at the hospice.”

Paws for a Cause walkers will follow a three-mile route round Houghall woodlands, near Durham City, on Sunday, October 10.

Registration, which costs £10 per dog, closes on October 1.

For more information, call the hospice on 0191-386-1170.