Dogs and their owners step out for charity

The walk was launched at 3pm by the Observer's own ex-deputy editor John Dowling, who is vice chairman of the association.

The walkers included two guide dog owners and year 7 pupils from St Richard's Catholic College, who raised 250 alone.

It was a beautifully sunny day, and the numbers were the highest to date.

The total of 2,306 to be collected far exceeds last years 1,900, with the 49 walkers making this, the fifth event of it's type, the largest party to complete the walk.

From the foot of Galley Hill, the walkers with their dogs carried cards to be signed when they reached the turnaround point at Southcliffe.

Nigel Lockwood, chairman of the Bexhill, Hastings and Rother Local Fundraising Branch of the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association, said: "We are thrilled with the support we have received, from across the whole branch area.

"We've even had seven pupils here today from Salehurst Primary School.

"It's great to raise the profile of guide dogs, and I would like to thank everyone who supported it, particularly in the current financial climate - both the walkers and those who sponsored them.

"It's the second best thing to Crufts and you don't have to go to London."

Events such as this are an important source of funding for the Guide Dogs Association, which is entirely dependent on voluntary donations.

For more information on the local branch contact Nigel Lockwood on 01580 882204