Now in its eighth year, Suffolk Dog Day isn’t just about having fun. It’s also about making a difference to people’s lives.

East Anglian Daily Times: There's lots for the whole family to do. Photo: Sarah GrovesThere's lots for the whole family to do. Photo: Sarah Groves (Image: Archant)

This month’s event, hosted once again by Helmingham Hall and Gardens, is the cornerstone of the Suffolk Community Foundation’s tenth anniversary. It’s raised £330,000 so far, with the money reaching those most in need across Suffolk via grants made to charity and community groups.

Suffolk Community Foundation is one of 48 Community Foundations in the UK and addresses a wide range of issues in the hardest to reach communities.

“It’s simply astounding what Iain Jamie and his team of volunteers have created here. Who would believe that an idea hatched around a dining room table only a few years ago could now be making such a positive impact on the lives of those most in need and that literally thousands of people simply enjoying a great day out could benefit so many. Ten years of local giving and 10,000 people at the event has a lovely ring to it doesn’t it,” says Tim Holder, Suffolk Community Foundation’s development director.

Suffolk Dog Day offers a barking mad, fun-packed day out for dogs and their owners including a new spectacle for this year - K9s and Kids Kingdom, a medley of tennis ball, toy, water and Frisbee competition games; plus the back by popular demand fun dog scurry.

There are also dog classes, the doggytude music area, more than 80 stalls selling everything from dog accessories to cheese, a catering village and the Suffolk Community Foundation tea tent.

Family fun is very much at the fore of the day, with plenty of activities to keep children busy including bungee trampolining, aqua zorbing, a bouncy castle and an inflatable slide.

If that wasn’t enough, your ticket also includes admission to the Grade II listed Helmingham Hall Gardens.

“Dog day is so much fun for all of us and every year people tell us what a great time they’ve had. There’s so many fresh ideas and new attractions we’re absolutely confident this year’s event will be the biggest and best ever,” adds Iain Jamie, chairman of Suffolk Dog Day and a foundation trustee.

“Without the partnership support of more than 100 sponsors and local businesses and literally countless numbers of fabulous volunteers this day could never happen. This year we are delighted to welcome a brand new headline sponsor, East Greet Energy.”

The focus for East Green Energy directors Linda Grave and Robbie Gawthrop is to not only increase awareness of renewable energy, but to also work with the foundation on its campaign to stop fuel poverty in rural areas of Suffolk.

Linda added: “This is a fantastic fun day out for the family but above all our support is very much aimed at helping raise funds and awareness of the great work done by the Suffolk Community Foundation.”

Suffolk Dog Day is July 26. Visit www.suffolkdogday.com for more details.