HUNDREDS of dogs and their proud owners are set to descend on Hatfield Peverel for the return of Essex Dog Day.

The event takes place at privately owned Georgian manor house Crix on Sunday, August 27.

The hugely popular show has become one of the biggest and best dog shows in the area and has also raised around a third of a million pounds for Essex charities since it was set up.

Enthusiasts, dog owners and families will all flock to the venue for its range of competitions including the popular gun dog scurry where dogs dive into a lake to recover a lure – racing against the stopwatch.

This year there are 22 classes that owners can enter their mutt in, including six new ones just for children.

Prizes will be dealt out for winners in categories such as the prettiest dog, finest pair, dog with the waggiest tail and of course the coveted best in show will go to the judges favourite.

Ian Twinley, owner of Crix and chairman of the show organisers, said: “Last year’s overall winner in the classes was a rescue dog; there’s a class for all, pedigree or pooch so bring your pet and have a go, even if you’re an absolute novice and one of the best things for me is the sight around the showground of a thousand or so dogs of all sizes and breeds - or no known breed at all.”

There are also demonstrations throughout the day in the main arena.

Performances will be given by the Police Dog Unit, David Seamark Sheepdog Demonstration and a falconry expert Jemima Parry Jones.

Refreshments, stalls and children’s games are also part of the fun.

All of the money raised on the day goes to the Essex Community Foundation and is then distributed to charities across the county.

The show is open between 10am and 5pm on Sunday, August 27.

Entrance costs £8 for adults or £5 for children and concessions.

A family ticket for two adults and two children is also available for £20

Visit www.essexdogday.com.