EVERY dog must have its day. From perky pedigrees to cute crossbreeds, every pooch had its moment of glory at the Suffolk Dog Day on Saturday at Helmingham Hall.

Kate McGrath

EVERY dog must have its day.

From perky pedigrees to cute crossbreeds, every pooch had its moment of glory at the Suffolk Dog Day on Saturday at Helmingham Hall.

Record numbers of dogs, some accompanied by their owners, arrived in their packs to parade themselves in the grand ring, savour the free food on offer or just sniff a few bottoms along the way.

Crowd pleasers in the competition ring included the cutest puppy categories, the dog with the waggiest tail and dogs and owners in the best fancy dress.

There was also dancing dog displays, by renowned performers Top Lodge Dancing Dogs, which got toes tapping.

Active hounds and their owners could try a host of challenges like the popular agility run, organised by On the Scent, a scurry run or retrieving toys from a pond.

Stephanie Renouf, one of the organisers, said: “It was a very happy Suffolk day, people and dogs were having fun and the weather was fantastic.

“Our numbers are up on last year so that's excellent. We had about 6,000 visitors and about 500 dog entries for the classes. There was also about 60 volunteers, whose help we can't do without.”

Popular stalls around the grounds included Daisy's Dog Deli selling organic baked treats and Petzcrazee Pet Boutique with designer wear and accessories.

All proceeds from the day, believed to be in the region of �30,000, go to The Suffolk Foundation, which supports local charities and community groups across the county.

The overall winner was Rumpole, a Leonberger , owned by Diana Smith, who won the best junior handler under 16 competition. The reserve was given to Kory, a Borzoi, owned by Alison Betts.

This the second year the event has run in the grounds of Helmingham Hall, which opened its gardens for visitors.