Pup paradise at Dunston Staiths Dog Show!
Held in a stunning setting on the green next to the historic Staiths, on the banks of the Tyne, the show is a dog-lover's dream, with canine companions of all ages, shapes and sizes taking part.
It's organised by local residents Virginia and Roger, who have led the event since the first show in 2017, with Friends of Dunston Staiths and help from many volunteers and community members.
This was the first year the Tyne Derwent Way team has been involved too, and together we're all hoping to keep the event going and growing in future years.
"The event is a great opportunity for local people to be together and to raise money for the maintenance of the historic Dunston Staiths," said Lucy Zwolinska, Community and Participation Consultant for the Tyne Derwent Way. "It's a celebration of dogs, Gateshead heritage and the wonderful communities along the Tyne Derwent Way. People come from outside Gateshead too, which makes this a brilliant event for showcasing the Staiths to a wider audience."
Prize-winning pooches
There were eight categories for our canine competitors, with rosettes for first, second, third and fourth place in each, with an overall best in show prize, won by Mabel.
Congratulations to our waggy-tailed winners and all our doggy friends who took part.
Huge thanks to all the event's supporters, in particular Suzi and the Staiths Café for helping to promote the event and for donating the prize for - and judging - the best in show. And a big thank you to Andy Smith, who was such a great MC.
Finally, our thanks to Dunston Woodcraft Heritage Centre, who brought down a stall with crafts and doggy portraits; guest judges including Chris from Big Local Gateshead and Corinna from Tyne and Wear Building Preservation Trust; and local businesses for donating prizes: Husse Newcastle West End, Love From Frank and the Staiths Café.
Look out for more events at Dunston Staiths and along the Tyne Derwent Way - Gateshead's green getaway.
Waggy tails gallery