MORE than 100 dogs and their owners turned out to take part in the first dog show at Lodmoor Country Park.

Organisers said a ‘perfect’ day was had by all at the show, which they hoped would bring dog owners who used the park together and encourage responsible behaviour.

Sheila Goodwin, of Friends of Lodmoor Country Park who organised the event, said it was a great success.

She added: “It really was a perfect day. All the dogs behaved beautifully and we have had some positive feedback from people.

“We had a great number of dogs and people, and because it was such a lovely day, there were also people out just enjoying the park and having picnics.

“Everyone was very good humoured and we had a lovely selection of dogs.”

The dog show was the first of its kind at the park, where the Friends group are hoping to develop a calendar of events for visitors to enjoy the area.

Mrs Goodwin added: “It really is the most fantastic feeling to see the park being used and enjoyed.

“Some people have lived in Weymouth for years and have never visited, so it’s nice to see the facilities being used.

“All the dog owners who would normally just say hello to each other as they are passing were getting to know each other.”

The Friends group were also keen that the show encouraged a sense of responsibility among park users, as the area has suffered from people leaving dog mess and litter.

Mrs Goodwin said: “Everyone picked up after themselves and the place looked neat afterwards.”

The event on Saturday also featured stalls from St John Ambulance, and animal charities the Margaret Green Foundation and Rushton Dog Rescue.

Mrs Goodwin said: “We covered our costs and there is even money left over that can be used for more improvements to the park.

“We would also like to thank all the volunteers who helped out, and the pitch and putt, who loaned us their gazebo.”