Big dog walk at Borde Hill Garden this spring

The walk, which is organised for Sunday, June 13 at the gardens and house north of Haywards Heath, aims to bring together dog lovers and dogs and encourage socialisation and exercise.

They are an opportunity for dog owners and their families to walk together in one of six of the country’s most beautiful stately parks.

Dogs Trust is the walk’s official charity partner, and organisers are encouraging people to raise funds for them or for a charity of their choice by taking part.

Nicole Cooper, managing director of Touchpoint Live Media, said: “The Big Dog Walk is a wonderful opportunity for all dog lovers to get out and walk with the four-legged member of the family.

“We are so thrilled to be hosting walks again this year at these six beautiful locations.

“These walks are a brilliant way to all get together in the great outdoors with all the family, and we cannot wait to welcome everyone.”

Dogs and their owners can choose from either a 2k, 5k or 10k route.

Choose between a 10.30am, 11.30am, 12.30pm, 1.30pm and 2:30pm walk, and arrive up to 1 hour before your start time to have a look around before the walk starts.

A spokesman for Big Dog Walk said: “We are delighted this year to have the Dogs Trust onboard as our official charity partner.

“We are encouraging as many people as possible to get their dogs walking to raise money for other dogs and good causes.

“Many of our animal charities have missed out on much needed funds during the Covid-19 pandemic and need your help to continue their vital work.

“Recently, Dogs Trust have received one call every 11 minutes from desperate and caring owners needing to hand over their dog, after facing financial hardship and health implications during the global pandemic – that’s an average of 50 calls a day – and a lot of dog’s hearts that need mending.

“They need to be ready to offer those dogs safe and warm shelter, urgent medical care, nutritious meals, special training, and the support and love they will be missing, but their resources are stretched more than ever.

“Whether you’re walking the 2k, 5k or 10k, it’s a great opportunity to do something you both love whilst making a difference.”

Brand new for this year, there will be a puppy’s first socialisation walk at each of the venues.

Taking place at 10am, this will be a 2km walk for those with little legs and is an opportunity to introduce your new dog to other dogs and socialise them in a safe and organised way.

There will be walk leaders on each route, and pitstops for people to stop at along the way for a drink and a rest.

Back at the event village there will be plenty of activities like a ‘dogstacle’ course, shopping, a dog show, and a dog splash park.

To book tickets, visit www.bigdogwalk.co.uk