THE Autumn sun came out for 101 dogs taking part in the PetSavers charity walk at The Bathhurst Estate on Sunday .

Keen canines were joined by more than 300 fundraising owners, The Countess of Bathurst and BBC Radio Gloucestershire broadcaster Mark Cummings.

Over a thousand pounds was raised through the en-masse dog walk at Cirencester Park and that cash will to help support vital research into cures for the diseases that cause pets suffering.

The event, organised by Gloucester charity PetSavers, saw pets and owners complete their three-mile or six-mile walk, and the canine companions were greeted at the finishing line with a medal and a PetSavers goody bag, whilst their owners enjoyed well-deserved local refreshments.

Mark Cummings said: “It was a great day with a superb turn out. Tyler my rescue lurcher made lots of new friends. I'm sure this event will grow every year and become a fun annual family day out. I hope people now really get the message about what PetSavers is all about.”

Lady Bathurst said: “Dora and I couldn't have enjoyed sharing our beautiful park more with so many other dog lovers. The Bathurst family have welcomed walkers, riders and dogs into these stunning grounds free for over 320 years, and so it was a joy to see such a show of support for this exceptional charity. Both Lord Bathurst and I – and of course Dora! – look forward to welcoming PetSavers back again, hopefully with even more attendance. Everyone who is lucky enough to own a pet should be getting involved in the work of this vital organisation by coming along and doing something as simple as a dog walk. We get so much appreciation and joy from our pets and by joining in; we can help others as well."

Event organiser Emma Sansom said: “It was fantastic that so many two-legged and four-legged friends took part for our inaugural Bathurst walk, and thank all those who attended for their support. Together we have raised funds that will help gain better understanding and even cures for animal diseased. After such a success we want to make this an annual event, thanks to the support of the Earl and the Countess – we hope next year even more pets and their human companions can join us.”