Swindon Rugby Club was buzzing with activity on Saturday, as it hosted KPC’s first Family Fun day and Fun Dog show.

The event drew crowds from across Swindon to raise money for the wildlife charity Oak & Furrows Wildlife Rescue Centre.

Laura Parsons, who runs KPC said: “It’s been really good so far. We’ve had lots of people turn up, and everyone seems to be enjoying themselves.”

It is hoped the event will raise roughly £300 for the local wildlife charity which takes in orphaned, injured or sick British wildlife.

“We put a poll out to our customers asking which charity we should support at this event, and the response was overwhelmingly Oak & Furrows,” added Laura.

Among the 40 stalls were local businesses and charities including SNDogs, PetShed, Fetch Groom, and the Jessie May Hospice. Glitter tattoos and sand art were also on offer, and performances provided by local singing and dancing groups.

The fun dog show saw 60 winners receive prizes, as well as rosettes for the top six pooches.

Andy Bate and Ruth Griffiths came with their three children and dog.

“We just love dogs,” said Andy. “That’s why we came. We thought we would come along and have a mooch around,and probably have a cake at some point!

“It’s great to be able to come to something that is so dog friendly. I don’t think there are many events in Swindon that are so dog-focused. Dogs are the foundation in a family, they just bring everyone together.”

Ruth added: “The kids love these kinds of events too, and everyone just has a great time.”

Among the groups performing were The Royal Wootton Bassett Tuneless Choir. Fran Mitchell, one of the singers said: “It’s lovely to have the opportunity to perform here. I’m a little nervous but there are a few of us so it should be fun.”

Her husband, Ian Mitchell added: “It’s a lovely event. There’s a nice variety of stalls and a great atmosphere. These occasions really bring the community together and give it an identity. And it’s a great cause to support. If there is something to support we do try to do it.”

“It’s very rewarding coming to events like this,” added Diane Kenyon, a volunteer with SNDogs. “Where we can promote our charity and the dogs we have available. We’ve had a lot of interest in our dogs, and it’s just nice for them to meet people.”

Phil Wells, owner of PetShed, said: “This is a great opportunity to meet people who haven’t heard of us before, and there needs to be support for things like this.

“It’s great to see so many people here, and all the children. They should be running around fields like this instead of stuck inside playing computer games,” he added.