A DOG show is the new attraction at this year’s free Party in The Park.

The popular two-day event takes place in Courtenay Park, Newton Abbot, on July 12 and 13.

The family-friendly weekend, organised jointly by Newton Abbot Town Council and Rotary Newton Abbot, has been a big hit in the past.

And with dog shows proving hugely popular at other district events, next month’s party looks set to become a real blockbuster.

The pet pooches will be a feature of Saturday’s entertainments which also include a bouncy castle, The Rock Choir, Taiko Drummers, face painting and circus skills.

Charity and trade stalls will share the field with food and drink vendors, these being the only element of the weekend that visitors have to pay for although families are welcome to bring picnics.

Sunday’s fun and games include children’s entertainment such as face painting, balloons, bubbles and crafts with Creative Newton Abbot.

The day will also feature a bungee run, circus skills and mini challenges from SPACE Youth Centre.

Live music will come in the form of ska, funk, rock, pop and brass.

Events Coordinator at Newton Abbot Town Council, Natalie Hicks, said: ‘Both Saturday’s and Sunday’s brilliant free activities programmes will run from 11am to 4pm, providing families with a fantastic free weekend that will create memories to treasure.

‘Newton Abbot Town Council is both proud and very happy to help arrange Party in The Park at a time when the cost of living just seems to spiral.

‘We are also honoured and grateful to have Rotary Newton Abbot as our partner in the project, the value of the volunteering their members give to our community cannot be over-estimated.

‘The only cost that people might choose to bear is a visit to our ice cream stand, bar or food vendors but please, bring a picnic from home if you prefer.

‘And we can’t wait to see all the proud owners and their pets flocking in for the dog show, we look forward to a whole lot of wagging tales and smiling faces.

‘Just keep everything crossed for good weather.’

Visit www.newtonabbot-tc.gov.uk for more information.