A barking success at Petworth House and Park for the National Trust and Canine Partners

More than 1,000 visitors enjoyed Bark! in the Park on Sunday 27 September at Petworth House and Park.

The event hosted the Big Petworth Walk and Run where more than 130 walkers and runners stomped their support to raise more than £1,500 for Canine Partners.

Entrants in the 5k walk or 10k run were spotted in the beautiful grounds of Petworth Park wearing their Canine Partners hairy headbands and medals.

Holly Bryan, Events and Challenges Co-ordinator for Canine Partners, said: “We are thrilled with the number of people and dogs who supported Canine Partners by joining in our walk and run events. The money will make a difference and enable Canine Partners to train more assistance dogs in their 25th anniversary year, transforming the lives of people with disabilities.”

Visitors to Bark! in the Park enjoyed the opportunity to watch live demonstrations from the

Working Clumber Spaniel Society, the Sussex Screamers and Brighton Blitz Fyball clubs and the Canine Partners assistance dogs carrying out tasks for their partners with physical disabilities.

Meanwhile, around the main arena there was plenty to see and do with have-a-go areas, including a doggy challenge run with Fun with Dogs, search and rescue with the ALSAR

Search Dogs Sussex and a scurry provided by English Springer Spaniel Welfare.

Visitors also enjoyed trialling the latest photographic technology at the Panasonic’s Roadshow tent where hundreds enjoyed an instant free portrait with their four legged friend.

Bryony Young, Events Assistant for the National Trust, comments: “It’s great to see so many dog enthusiasts taking part in Bark! in the Park. This event has been our biggest fundraiser of the year, raising vital funds for the National Trust to help keep the beautiful landscape of Petworth Park for ever, for everyone.”