HUGE crowds of dog lovers from all over the county will flock to the Essex Dog Day.

The sixth annual event takes place on Bank Holiday Sunday from 10am until 5pm at Crix, a Georgian manor house on London Road in Hatfield Peverel.

Across the five previous events a massive £286,000 has been raised for the Essex Community Foundation, who distribute the cash to local causes.

There will be many competitions for proud canine owners to enter with their pooch including agility races, gun dog competitions and a fun dog scurry.

Prizes will also be awarded to dogs in several categories including Dog Most Like Its Owner and Waggiest Tail.

There is plenty on offer for those who don't want to enter competitions, and BBC Essex Radio DJ Dave Monk will be covering all the action in the main show ring.

The Police Dog Unit will be giving a demonstration of their fantastic work, and there will be falconry displays, dance groups and much more.

Ian Twinley, owner of Crix and chairman of the organisers, said: “Nothing beats the enjoyment of seeing your own dog compete – you can see it in people’s faces.”

“If you have a dog, any shape or size, come and give it a go, even if you’ve never done this before.

"We’ve got classes for pedigree dogs but we’ve got many more for the family pet; loads of them are absolute novices.”

Gates open at 10am and classes begin at 11am - competitors are advised to get their early to get registered.

Tickets cost £8 for adults, £5 for concessions or £20 for a family ticket.

For more information visit: www.essexdogday.com.