Enjoy a bumper fun-packed day at The Blue Cross in Burford

The Blue Cross, Britain’s pet charity, is holding its annual show in Burford on Sunday 29 July 2007. All funds raised will go towards helping the horses and small animals in the charity’s care until they find new homes.

The day kicks off at 9.30am with a horse show in the charity’s equine centre. Competitions across seven rings include showing, working hunter, showjumping and gymkhana games with rosettes to eighth place and trophies for most classes. There will also be classes for the best family horse or pony, the best Blue Cross rehomed horse or pony and for the more adventurous, the best fancy dress horse or pony and rider. For a schedule and more information please contact the equine centre on 01993 822454 or email equine@bluecross.org.uk.

From 11.00am in the grounds of the small animal adoption centre there will be activities for both dogs and cats.  Anyone can enter their dog into the fun show on the day with a small fee of £1. Categories include the waggiest tail, best veteran, handsomest dog and prettiest bitch. There is also a category for rescue dogs who have been successfully rehomed by the Burford centre, a perfect chance for a doggy reunion. Winners of the 11 categories will be entered for the ‘best in show’ grand finale.

Visitors looking for a more energetic dog event can try an agility run or test their dog’s willpower in ‘temptation alley’. If the dog can resist the rows of toys and treats they could win a goody bag and a special certificate, but even dogs who can’t resist won’t go home empty pawed.

At 12.00 midday, the winners will be announced of the ‘catless’ cat show. Proud cat owners were invited to enter their cat by sending in a photograph and entry fee before 21 July. Categories include the cuddliest cat, best rescued cat, cutest kitten and best owner/cat companions. Overall winners of the dog and ‘catless’ cat shows will be announced Blue Cross Dog and Cat of the Year 2007.

There will also be the chance for visitors to try their hands at archery, craft stalls and activities for all the family. 

The Blue Cross receives no government funding and relies entirely on public donations. The open day will take place in the grounds of the Burford equine and small animal adoption centre: Shilton Road, Burford OX18 4PF. Parking facilities will be available. For more information call the centre on 01993 822483.

Media contact: Louise Lee
Direct line: 0207 932 4066
Mobile: 07880 781637

Notes to editors

Media are welcome to attend, please call the press office for further details.

The Blue Cross is Britain's pet charity, providing practical support, information and advice for pet and horse owners. Through its network of animal adoption centres it rehomes thousands of animals each year. Its hospitals provide veterinary care for the pets of people who cannot afford private vets' fees.

Burford small animal adoption and equine centres were opened in 1990 and 1991 respectively. They serve the counties of Oxfordshire, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, Warwickshire, and Northamptonshire.

The small animal centre has facilities for up to 60 dogs and puppies, 48 cats and kittens, seven pairs of rabbits, and six guinea pigs. Members of the public can now receive a tour of the adoption centre from a volunteer. Our trained volunteers operate the tour on Tuesday afternoons for groups up to 12 people, or individuals. Hundreds of animals are successfully rehomed every year.

To contact the centre call 01993 822483. Opening hours: Monday – Wednesday & Friday – Sunday & Bank Holidays: 10.00am – 3.00pm. Closed on Thursdays.