Poor weather forecasts deterred dog owners from attending an annual show.

The eleventh annual dog show organised by The Rotary Club of Brit Valley was held at The Melplash Showfield.

Unfortunately during the run-up to the show, weather forecasters predicted that dire weather was to hit, and a rather disappointing crowd turned out.

A spokesman for the club said: "When we were forecast heavy rain and thunderstorms it is not surprising that fewer dog owners were willing to risk it.

"As it turned out, the weather was glorious, blue sky and a warm sun kept the visitors happy and an enjoyable afternoon was had by all."

Both judges, Cheryl Kerry in the Pedigree Ring and Lynette Aylett in the Novelty Ring, were kept busy all afternoon, deciding upon the various canine merits.

The Jesse James Cup for best in show was awarded to "Ruary", a Cavalier King Charles spaniel, who is owned by Denise Blackie.

The reserve champion winning the Daisy Perpetual Cup was "Peggy", a Welsh Terrier belonging to Rosie Bowditch.

In the Novelty Ring, the winner was "Boris", a whippet, whose owner Judy Clare took home the Ron Short Cup.

The best rescue dog was won by "Katie", a lurcher whose owner, Tim Beale, took home the Molly Cup.

The President's Cup, chosen by Rotary Club president Phil Payne,was awarded to "Woodchip", a wire-haired Fox Terrier owned by Tony Bidgood.

Money from the event has gone towards two charities, Brainwave, a charity which provides therapies to young people with disabilities and additional needs to achieve greater independence, and The Dogs Trust, a charity which specialises in the well-being of dogs and finds new homes for abandoned dogs.

Entertainment at the show was provided by the Port Bredy Allstars and Portland Dog Training Club.

The tea tent, manned by members of the Rotary Club, wives and friends, was busy throughout the afternoon, where hot food prepared by club members and provided by The Haddon House Hotel.

A spokesman for the club said: "The Rotary Club would like to thank their main sponsor, The Bridport and West Dorset Golf Club, for all their support.

"In addition, we are indebted to all those who advertised in our programme and to the Melplash Show Committee who donated the use of their splendid venue.

"Last but not least, our thanks to the many dogs, owners and visitors who help make this event an annual success."