BURLEY-in-Wharfedale’s eight Summer Festival kicks off on Saturday (August 20) with a fun dog show.

Volunteering at the event, which is being run for the fifth time, will be 12-year-old Ben Robinson. Ben, a former pupil of Burley Oaks, and now of Ilkley Grammar School, runs the fun activity course, which was created by his nana Gail Robinson.

One of the organisers Sandra Carruthers said: “Ben is calm and patient, which is ideal for guiding youngsters and their dogs around the course.

“Ben's learned the ropes over the years and we've seen his confidence grow. He started out working with another volunteer, but now is single-handedly running the activity ring, taking up to 80 participants around the course.”

Ben explained his role as a volunteer: “I set up the course, take tickets, check the dogs have the right type of collar and lead, then guide them around eight obstacles which include hurdles, a hoop and tunnel. When the dogs have completed the course I award their owner with a rosette.

“Most dogs are good at doing the course, but one year a dog who escaped from his owner and ran around, so I had to get him under control, I did this by encouraging him with treats."

Talking about the show as a whole, Ben added: “It's a really fun day. One of my favourite events is the cheekiest puppy”.

The Fun Dog Show is sponsored by The Rhyddings Natural Pet Shop and takes place from 10am to 3pm, Saturday, August 20 at the Recreation Ground, York Road, off the Main Street, Burley-in-Wharfedale.

In addition to the Fun Activity Course, the event includes Fun Dog Classes, Terrier Racing and two new feature for 2016 – 'Sausage Bobbing' a take on apple bobbing for dogs and a demonstration from the 'Best of Friends' Burley young handlers dog team, which features nine youngsters and their pooches. Guide Dogs, Hope Rescue and Linbee Dog Rescue will also be in attendance at the event

The charity Guide Dogs is supporting the event and will be bringing guide dog pups and trained guide dogs to demonstrate how they can help people with sight loss.

Andrew Barton, co-ordinator of the Ilkley Guide Dogs fundraising branch said: “Events like these are so important to raise awareness and funds. Guide Dogs trains over 800 dogs with new blind or partially sighted owners each year and the charity relies entirely on public donations for this service. The much needed funds raised will go towards another guide dog partnership and make a life changing difference to someone with sight loss. If you are coming to the dog show, do come and see us at the Guide Dogs stand. We will be delighted to answer any questions you might have.”