Dogs love to get muddy – and they can do it for a good cause next month.

The Lewis-Manning Hospicecare Trust has announced details of the inaugural Muddy Dog Dash at Upton Country Park.
Dog owners can now register for 2km and 4km events, complete with obstacle course, which take place on Sunday, March 26, sponsored by Barratt Homes.
The day will end with a podium finish, where participants and their furry friend can collect a rosette and certificate, to proudly wear and show everyone how they completed the muddy challenge.

Ruth Wright, area fundraiser at Lewis-Manning, said: “The course comprises a picturesque but muddy route, which will take participants around the fields and woods at Upton Country Park.
“Along the course there will be various fun obstacles including ramps, muddy ditches, tyre runs, weave polls, ball pits, hurdles, wooden dog houses, tunnels and more.
“These are being kindly made thanks to The Old Boy’s Club, a local men’s club that runs a fantastic upcycling workshop. We cannot wait to see the post event pictures.”
The first 100 sign-ups will receive a free Muddy Dog Dash T-shirt, she said, with more opportunities to purchase T-shirts ahead of the day.
Each dog taking part will also receive a rosette, bandana, certificate and doggy goody bag.
And there will be rewards for the Muddiest Dog, Best dressed/Fancy dress and Top Dog Fundraiser.
“You can run, jog or walk, that’s up to you, the route isn’t overly challenging, and we hope to see our wonderful community come out in full force to join in and take part. We look forward to seeing you and your furry friend there,” Ruth added.
Registration opens at 10am, and runners will set off in waves from 10.30am. Registration costs £30 and other humans without a dog (over eight years old) are asked to pay £10 to take part.
Family tickets – including one furry friend, two adult humans and up to three children (eight-17) – are available for £45.
Megan Hamlyn, marketing manager at Barratt Homes, said: “We are thrilled that we are supporting the inaugural Muddy Dog Dash, it’s certainly an event not to be missed.
“Barratt Homes are always keen to support local communities and know that the vital work Lewis-Manning do is truly fantastic.”
Sponsorship has also been received from Care South who will be taking a stand in the Event Village at Cooper’s Yard.
Pet food business, Nurturing by Nature, will also be supporting the event with their Dog Bar and have donated goodies to go in all the doggy bags, as well as doggy-related raffle prizes.
Sign up online at lewis-manning.org.uk/muddy-dog-dash.