A CHARITY dog show in aid of a mental health charity has been hailed a grrreat success.

The Elmwood Dog Show was held at Elmwood Equestrian Centre, Burnham, to raise money for mental health charity Mind.

Despite the unkind weather the show was a success and went on to raise almost £900 for the charity.

Organiser Pat Charlton said: “The show had 10 fun classes. There was also a very popular cake stall, raffle stall with fantastic prizes all donated by local businesses.

“The judges Lauren Charlton and Liam Paton had a tough job choosing, but competitors were pleased with how much time they took meeting their pets.”

Burnham mayoress Vanessa Bell drew the raffle.

The Greyhound Trust was also there with dogs looking for forever homes.

Pat said: “On the day the amount taken was £864 but this has since increased and excitingly we are awaiting news on the amount being matched which will raise the amount for this much needed charity to near £2,000.”

The event was sponsored by Arrow Taxi Demand Responsive Transport (DaRT) – a dial and ride service providing access to key services in rural areas. Those who need it can use DaRT to go shopping and attend health appointments at no cost using their bus pass.

They also put on services to get people to Covid-19 vaccination centres.

Pat said: “This is a great community service which many don’t know about.”

For more information about Arrow Essex DaRT call 01621 874410.