A much-loved annual festival arrived in Dorset this bank holiday weekend.

The family-favourite Dog Sausage and Cider Festival took place at Sutton Poyntz on Sunday, August 27.

As soon as you get through the festival gates near the Springhead, you are met by floods of people, many of whom were accompanied by their four-legged friends.

There is plenty to see and do, with more than 50 stalls selling everything from delicious fudge to dog accessories and of course there was a rather large queue for the Dorset Cider Company tent.

One visitor said: “It’s so busy which is nice to see. I just bought myself some fudge which I’m excited to try.

“My friend invited me along with her and I didn’t really know a lot about the festival until now – I’m glad I came.”

There were also lots of opportunities for kids to take part in activities like holding and stroking animals like snakes, Shetland ponies and goats from the Ranch, a bouncy castle, bungee trampolines and face painting.

Strawberry Jam entertainment were also at the event with magic tricks and circus skill demonstrations throughout the day for kids to enjoy.

Linda Peacham works alongside Linda Stevenson at Dog Friendly Social who are heavily involved with the event and was selling some handmade crafts at the festival.

She said: “It’s been very busy – especially for my side of it. We handmake all our crafts ourselves.”

Live music from acts like Sunstroke, All Funked Up and We Afro Tallawah filled the air as families wondered around the site.

In keeping with the festival name, tThe mighty sausage throwing competition’ is also a highly anticipated part of the event alongside the Springhead Dog Show.

Categories for the dog show included ‘Most Handsome Big Boy,’ ‘Prettiest Big Girl,’ ‘Waggiest Tail,’ as well as Best Rescue/ Rehomed.

Many visitors also took up the opportunity of capturing a snap in the Ultimate Photo Booth with friends and their furry companions.

Refreshments were also on offer in the form of a BBQ and pizzas.

Overall, the Dog Sausage and Cider Festival is a great and quirky way to spend a few hours of your afternoon.