Nearly 170 dog-lovers and their prized pooches gathered to meet celebrity conservationist, Chris Packham at The Great British Dog Walk this weekend.

This popular charity event was held at Buckler’s Hard, Beaulieu, organised by national charity Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, and with Specsavers Audiologists' support.

Collectively, the walkers raised around £3,000 towards training dogs to help improve the lives of deaf people by alerting them to crucial and potentially life-saving sounds. Despite the event's success, a volunteer shortage persists in the Hampshire area for training puppies.

Daily Echo: Local dog lovers turned out in droves to meet conservationist and TV presenter, Chris Packham

Those with the commitment to care for a puppy are welcome to visit the Hearing Dogs website to offer their support.

For further details about The Great British Dog Walk or to get involved with Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, visit www.hearingdogs.org.uk.

Jordan Chamberlain, Hearing Dogs’ community fundraising manager for the region, said: "Buckler’s Hard village was the perfect setting for the walk, the sun was shining, and everyone had a fun time on the day.

"It costs around £40,000 to fully train and support a hearing dog for the duration of its life and Hearing Dogs for Deaf People receives no central government funding, so everyone who took part has helped raise much-needed funds that allow the charity to continue its life-changing work.

"I would like to say a huge thank you to our amazing volunteers who supported the event, to Chris Packham, and to Charlotte, our contact at Buckler’s Hard, who all helped make the day a huge success."

Susan Payne from Bitterne in Southampton was partnered with her hearing dog Libby, a black and white cocker spaniel, in 2019.

Ms Payne said: "I was born severely deaf and was fitted with hearing aids when I was a toddler. I used these and lipreading to communicate. Over time though, my hearing deteriorated so much that even the most powerful hearing aids weren’t helping,

"At home, she wakes me up in the morning by jumping on the bed. She also nudges me to let me know when the smoke alarm, doorbell and cooker timer are going off. Since getting her, I feel more relaxed, happier and more part of the hearing world."