STAFF at Dogs Trust Manchester are preparing for the arrival of Santa Paws at its Christmas Fair soon.

On Sunday, December 1 they are encouraging local people to come along and join in the festive fun.

Taking place at the Denton-based rehoming centre festive fun is planned for both two and four-legged friends.

Louise Danson, supporter relations officer at Dogs Trust Manchester, said: “The Christmas Fair is always a great day out for everyone. It really gets everyone into the festive spirit and gives them the chance to do some Christmas shopping for two and four-legged friends.

“Every penny raised makes sure we can give our dogs everything they need throughout the year, not just at Christmas, whilst they wait for their forever homes. It is always really busy and we hope that once more dog lovers come along and join in the fun.”

At the event, which runs from 10am to 4pm, visitors and their dogs will be able to have their picture taken with Santa Paws and there will be a raffle along with tombolas with doggie treats and human prizes, gift and craft stalls as well as cake stalls, festive refreshments and lots of games and activities.

There will be a fun, indoor mini obstacle course for dogs and their owners to test their agility skills. Entry and parking are free.

The event takes place at Dogs Trust Manchester, Parkway, Denton, M34 3SG.

Dogs Trust is the UK’s largest dog welfare charity and cares for 15,000 dogs across its network of 20 rehoming centres in the UK and one in Dublin.

Dogs Trust has a non-destruction policy, and will never put a healthy dog to sleep.

The charity also focuses its efforts on understanding dogs and sharing that knowledge with the wider public to prevent problem behaviours that can result in relinquishment or abandonment. We are working towards the day when all dogs can enjoy a happy life, free from the threat of unnecessary destruction.