DALMATIAN-obsessed Swindonians only need 40 more members in their walking group to reach the magic 101.

‘Swindon Spots’ meet once a month to let their Dalmatians loose for an hour-and-a-half, often at their favourite haunt Stanton Park.

With about 60 dogs between them, the 80 people in the club almost boast a brood the size of that in the 1996 Disney film ‘101 Dalmatians’.

Originally trained to run long distances alongside horse-drawn carriages in the 18th Century, Dalmatians are not only one of the most recognisable dog breeds but also among the most active canines.

Nicknamed ‘the Spotted Coach Dog’, their job was to ward off any people who might get in the way, guard the cargo and add an aristocratic touch to carriages carrying important people.

And their insatiable appetite for walkies means they need at least two hours outdoors every day.

Now Swindonians have set up a group to keep their four-legged friends fit all year round – and they just need a few dozen more Dalmatians to hit 101.

Organisers Solvejg Elson, 36, and Angela Clark, 46, both from Highworth, set up the group two years ago.

Solvejg has two Dalmatians, two-year-old boy Cooper and one-year-old Ruby, who she adopted in May.

“What's hilarious when we're out as a group is seeing people trying to frantically count the dogs so they can work out the maths!” she said.

Around 14 people turn up to each walking session where their so-called ‘spots’ frolic in lakes and run around fields together.

Solvejg said letting the dogs loose in the park is the perfect way for them to let off steam and burn up their infinite energy.

“They could go on a long walk then have a rest for five minutes, then they’re ready to do it again!” she said.

“They’re not the kind of dog you can just leave in the house – if you get a Dalmatian you have to take it out a lot because they’re active and like to be walked.

“They’re good with children but their tails can be dangerous, like whips!”

The beauty of the group is that it is a non-judgemental atmosphere where owners can enjoy their pooches and not keep to a strict walkies etiquette.

“No one says ‘your dog is barking at my dog!’,” said Solvejg.

“Everyone is quite relaxed and lets the dogs get on with it.”

Solvejg, who has always loved dogs, was originally looking for a Labrador cross but ended up falling in love with her two baby spots.

“Dalmatians are a stubborn breed but they are extremely loving and think they are lap dogs even at 35kgs!” she said.

“It's in their breeding – they love to run, but also a snuggle on the sofa.

“We have puppies and OAP spots that come for a walk but leave a bit earlier.

“The dogs group together but they go back to check their owners are there and then go back to the pack again.”

People who don’t have Dalmatians are welcome to join the group, which organises meet-ups on Facebook.