Pets' patience aids two good causes

But then the pets were on parade in aid of not one but two good causes. And the pets' patience is likely to yield more than 1,400.

The BUPA home was staging its third annual dog show. The event was in aid of Pets As Therapy (PAT) and the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children.

BUPA had already pledged to double whatever cash the home raised.

Home manager Alison Sowerby said: "We have had a very good entry- 30 dogs.

"We have had dogs of every size - big and small - and of many breeds.

"It is the third year that we have done it. Our judges this year are Alison Walker and Suzanne Holding - who has travelled all the way from Manchester."

Categories included Breed Classes for sporting and non-sporting dogs; the dog with the waggiest tail, best cross-breed, prettiest bitch, most handsome dog, best dog trick, the dog the judge would most like to take home, best dog from the Bexhill neighbourhood, best rescue dog, best-moving six legs and best fancy dress.

Proud mascot on the show form was Dixie Dean, Ancaster Court's PAT dog.

The entry fee was 1 a time with many of the dogs being entered for more than one class.

The event raised 700 on the day. Staff had invited celebrities to donate prizes. June Brown, of Eastenders had donated an Eastenders script, which is now being auctioned among BUPA staff.