Dog owners enter their pets in annual dog show in Alexandra Park

Hastings, St Leonards and East Sussex Canine Society staged its eighth yearly event, which attracted scores of entries.

Jean McGlashan, honorary secretary, said: "People came from far and wide with their dogs hoping that the judges would think that their dog had the X Factor.

"We would like to thank Pepper's Pet Food for its generous sponsorship, Arnelda John for the commission of a mounted pencil drawing of the Best Novelty in show, and Sue's Animal Magic for the grooming voucher for Reserve Best Novelty, as well as our judges and everyone who came along and supported us."

The council's environmental enforcement team were in attendance handing out the new poo bags and stickers in their bid to draw the public's attention to the need to clear up after their dog.