A FESTIVAL dedicated to dogs and their owners is to take place at a country estate.

Goodwoof Festival is to be held at the Goodwood Estate near Chichester this weekend.

There will be a chance for canines and their companions to enjoy free activities, meet dog wellness experts and even a fastest dog competition.

A spokesman for the event said it would be a celebration of dogs of all shapes, sizes and breeds.

He said: “The event, which is presented by MARS Petcare is not just a dog show, it is what your dog has always dreamed of – a canine extravaganza in the rolling fields of one of Britain’s most beautiful country estates.

“Devised by real dog lovers, and delivered with the charm, wit and style for which Goodwood’s other world-leading events are renowned, Goodwoof will feature a fantastic line-up of activities to entertain dogs and their human companions.

“From competitions and demonstrations to play and pampering, from trails and treats to wellness and nutrition, it will be a feast of family friendly fun, equally suited to those with a dog and those without.”

Downton Abbey star Hugh Bouneville is set to entertain crowds at the festival in literature corner.

The actor will perform a reading from On Dogs: An Anthology, a collection of essays put together by Tracey Ullman.

There will be concessions stands serving a range of food and drink, including the Taittinger Champagne bar and the Goodwood Garden which will be serving estate-reared organic food.

The event was due to take place in 2020 but it was cancelled due to coronavirus restrictions.

Tickets start at £35 per person, while admission is free for children and dogs.

They can be bought in advance from the Goodwood website or on the gate.

Gates open at 10am and close at 5pm on both Saturday and Sunday.

For more information, visit https://www.goodwood.com/goodwoof/