IN the first event of its kind for 10 years, the Northern Border Terrier Club is returning to Redesdale.

In a special event to mark the club’s 70th birthday, there will be a family fun day at the RTC Sports Centre, in Otterburn, on Saturday, May 28.

The doors will be open at 10am for families and their pet dogs of any breed- as long as they are well behaved.

The event will include a talk from Sara Jackson from Vets Now in Gateshead who will be advising pet-owners on ‘Simple First Aid for your Dog’.

Dog groomer Hilary Gilpin will give a demonstration on the correct hand stripping techniques for Border Terriers and will be on hand for advice on other breeds too.

Professional photographer Joyce Martin, who specialises in canine imagery, will be available to take studio pictures of family pets.

And retired police dog handler John Ashworth will give a demonstration on scent work.

He will be joined by his trusty narcotics dog Figo who is also trained to search for cash and weapons, serving almost a decade in the police force.

For those keen to show off their dog’s best attributes, there is a Knock-Out style competition. The winner moves on to the next round until the ‘Best in Match’ is declared.

Children can enjoy a novelty show with categories including ‘Most Handsome Dog’, ‘The Best Trick’ and ‘Most Appealing Puppy’.

Stalls will include a raffle, tombola, home-made cakes, face painting and trade stands selling dog accessories.

At 4.30pm the much-anticipated terrier racing will kick off. Madly enthusiastic terriers and some keen handling by stewards make for a must-see spectacle which will close what promises to be a great 70th birthday celebration.

For details and categories of the event’s photograph competition, contact Claire Griffiths on clairegriff 19782@aol.com or 01665 578711.

Admission is free, including parking. Dogs must be kept on leads (except for terrier racing) and poo bags will be provided.