Dogs' day at Ludlow's Downton

Dozens of dogs descended on a farm near Ludlow at the weekend as the Sussex Spaniel Association celebrated 90 years in existence.

Held at Brakes Farm, on the Downton Estate, owners and spaniels from all over the UK got together in a weekend of activities to mark the association's birthday.

Secretary Sheila Appleby said: "Our 90th anniversary was a big celebration, everybody was having a whale of a time and it was an honour to be there and join in with everybody.

"There were about 40 to 50 dogs, some from as far as Lancaster, Kent and Cornwall.

"Most of the members came along and there were a few people interested in the breed as well," she said.

Sussex Spaniels are often used to accompany shooting parties, she said.

"They go along with the beaters to flush the birds out - but they're good companions as well, they make wonderful pets, and they're too cuddly, people spoil them."

The three-day event, from Friday to Saturday, was packed with events.

"The first day was a training day with our working secretary Bill Cadwell, but he trained everybody's dogs whether the were working dogs or not.

"The second day was for people who have them as pets. There were competitions for the waggiest tail, the most handsome dog, the most handsome bitch, a fancy dress competition, and children were able to handle the dogs and win prizes - there was a rosette for everyone."

She said after that there was a photo lecture by member Greg Smith on how to get good photographs of the dogs, and a contest of show champions.

"And because it's the 90th anniversary, we had historical videos of shows, such as what it was like at Crufts 20 years ago," she said.

The day was capped off with feast and a ceilidh, and on Sunday there was an official Kennel Club recognised working test for the dogs to show off their hunting and retrieving skills.

"It was a good weekend, everyone enjoyed it," she added.