DOG lovers are being urged to join in a sponsored Paws in the Park fundraiser in aid of Weldmar.

The charity is holding the sponsored walkies for owners and their pets on Sunday, June 26 in the grounds of Lulworth Castle at 10am.

It is the fourth year that the five-mile fundraiser has been held by the Dorchester-based Weldmar Hospicecare Trust.

Community fundraiser Matt Smith said: “Dogs love to go on a good walk.

“So why not let your dog take you on a sponsored walk, have fun together and at the same time raise money for Weldmar Hospicecare Trust? “This is the fourth year that Paws in the Park has been running and each year it is proving more popular.

“The 2010 event raised the fantastic sum of £5,296 and we would like to make this a bumper year. “We are delighted that Scats of Dorchester will once again sponsor the event and provide each dog who enters a goodie bag at the end of the walk.”

Registration is £5 per dog, including a printed bandana, ‘doggie’ goodie bag and a medal. Organisers ask that owners raise a minimum of £30 and the dog of the owner that raises the highest sponsorship will feature on next year’s promotional material.

Matt added: “Have a fun morning with all the family and your canine friends.

“Why not bring your own picnic and enjoy the stunning grounds of Lulworth Castle after your walk?”

The highest sponsored dog for the last three years is Bonnie, who is owned by Angela Butcher of <&bh"/search/?search=Charlton+Down">Charlton Down<&eh> near <&bh"/search/?search=Dorchester">Dorchester<&eh>.

Pets at Home Weymouth are also supporting the event. To register call Matt on 01305 261800 or email matt.smith@weld-hospice.org.uk or register online at weld-hospice.org.uk/paws