St Albans’ annual mutt show returns next weekend and organiser, Joyce Goodwin, is urging dog-owners to sign up.

Unlike traditional dog shows, The Highfield Mutt Show in Highfield Park, St Albans, is open to dogs of all shapes and sizes. “If it looks and smells like a dog,” says Joyce, “it’s in.”

The event, which takes place on Saturday September 5, will see dogs entered into a range of categories including ‘best biscuit catcher’, ‘musical dogs’ and ‘prettiest bitch’ as well as into the more expected categories like ‘best rescue dog’ and ‘best child handler’.

Entrance into each class will cost £2, with all money raised going to Daneline International, a charity devoted to rescuing and rehoming Great Danes.

An independent judge representing the Royal Veterinary Care Trust will preside over the competitions while owners treat themselves to teas, coffees, a tombola and dog classes.