THE searing heat on Saturday failed to deter more than 50 owners from bringing their four-legged friends to a Novelty Dog Show to raise funds for the Wiltshire Air Ambulance.

Dogs of all shapes, sizes and breeds tagged along with their owners to take part in the fun family dog show, where temperatures approached 30C.

It was staged at Merkins Farm Cafe and Camp Site at Bradford Leigh for the second year running with help from owners Jon and Hayley Painter.

Organiser Anne Hooper, from Corsham, said the show has already raised more than £800 for the air ambulance, with more funds coming in.

She said: “It has been hugely successful. We knew the very hot day would prevent some owners from bringing their dogs to the show but we were very happy with the numbers that did turn out.

“Takings were curtailed by the heat-related low attendance but we estimate the amount raised is still around £800.”

The show featured 52 entries in 12 classes judged by Mrs Wendy Andrews from Catcomb Road, Hilmarton.

Best in show was Harry, a flat-coated black Retriever owned by Ros Weddell from Bristol. Reserve Best in Show was Lola, a Hungarian Vizsla owned by Lucy Brigley from Broughton Gifford.

Classes included prettiest bitch, most handsome dog, waggiest tail, best non-pedigree, best pedigree, veteran over seven years, most appealing eyes, best rescue, best young handler under 16 years, best condition, best biscuit catcher and best local dog or bitch. Emma Ashby, of Chippenham, won three firsts and two second places with her Bichon Frise Bear.