Dogtember festival returns to lido for 10th year

Thousands of dogs and their owners are expected at Saltdean Lido as the annual Dogtember swimming festival returns for its 10th year.

The event, described by organisers as the world's biggest dog swim festival, is expected to attract more than 16,000 dogs and owners across four weekends in September and October.

The Sussex festival gives people the opportunity to swim in the heated 40m (131ft) pool with their "beloved pooches", organisers said.

Dogtember founder Jules Shepherd said: "This year, our furry friends can enjoy all the fun and excitement of Saltdean Lido." She said the festival saw dogs of all breeds and sizes having fun and making friends.

This year's festival will include breed-specific meetups, including sessions for small dogs and dachshunds, spaniels and poodles, as well as quieter swims for dogs that do not like crowds.

The festival, which is being held to raise money for the Saltdean Lido Trust, is taking place this weekend, 19 and 20 September, 26 and 27 September, and 3 and 4 October.

Pictures from the first day of the festival showed dogs diving into the water, splashing through waves and venturing down slides, while some were coaxed in by their owners and others launched themselves off the side.

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