Athletic hounds, stylish Pekinese and meagre mongrels are being invited to take the lead and enjoy some canine capers in Dalby Forest!

The Forestry Commission is hosting a first ever day for pooches in the 3,440-hectare (8,600-acre) wood, near Pickering, on Sunday 7 September, as part of the “Walkies in the Woods” campaign.

It’s a little known fact, but dog walking is also the most popular form of human woodland recreation and helps keep both beast and owner in rude health. Because of that forest chiefs are also promoting all things canine under the Active Woods health banner this year.

The event will feature agility classes and categories for best biscuit catcher, prettiest paws and mutt with the waggiest tail. No dog is too great, or too small to take part! Ranger Mark Barker said:

“This is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a great day out with man’s best friend. Every dog has it’s day and if your pet can wag its tail with flair or has film star looks then recognition could be just around the corner!”

Local animal charities including the RSPCA, Blue Cross, Whitby Dog Rescue, Canine Partners and Guide Dogs for the Blind will be taking part. Proceeds will go to animal charities.

Entry is £2 and the event is based at Adderstone Field in Dalby Forest, about three miles round the forest drive from the new visitor centre. It runs between 11am to 3pm. Normal forest toll charge applies. For more details call 01751 460295, or log onto www.forestry.gov.uk/YorkshireandtheHumber.

Media calls to Richard Darn on 0113 341 3178. Mobile 0775 367 0038.

NOTE TO EDITOR

Active Woods is a national drive being led by the Forestry Commission to promote the vast range of health and fitness opportunities offered by Britain’s woodlands. Hundreds of events are being organised reflecting the campaign’s three themes of naturally active, naturally stimulating and naturally relaxing. For more visit www.forestry.gov.uk/activewoods-england.

Walkies in the Woods focuses on the physical and mental health benefits of dog walking as part of the Active Woods campaign to promote the healthy living opportunities offered by woodlands. With support from the Kennel Club, the Forestry Commission want to ensure that dogs and their owners experience healthy, responsible and above all enjoyable woodland visits. Find out more at www.forestry.gov.uk/england-dogs

ISSUED ON BEHALF OF THE FORESTRY COMMISSION BY RICHARD DARN, COI, LEEDS. TEL: 0113 3413178.