DOZENS of families and their pets have enjoyed a Doggy Day Out in Ilkley in support of Candlelighters.

The children’s cancer charity held the event at the Riverside Gardens on Sunday, June 23 when a 2.5km sponsored dog walk was the highlight event.

Candlelighters have declared the fundraiser a ‘barking success’, with more than 50 dogs - some 30 were signed up in advance while another 20 joined on the day - taking part.

The event also included a variety of stalls, entertainment and a dog show.

Among the many prizewinners was eight year old Amelia, who has been supported by the charity while being treated for leukaemia.

Her dog, an 11 month old Cavapoo called Jasmine, won the Waggiest Tail prize.

A spokeswoman for Candlelighters said: “Amelia finished her treatment for leukaemia in January and, although she still has some mobility issues, walking Jasmine has really helped her regain her fitness.

“The 2.5km sponsored walk around the River Wharfe was Amelia’s furthest walk since she stopped using her walking frame, which is an absolutely fantastic achievement.

“Both Amelia and Jasmine were a huge part of the day and as well as winning the Waggiest Tail category in our dog show they raised an amazing £223 for the sponsored walk.

“This brings the total raised to over £1,100 and counting!”

Amelia’s mother, Sally, added: “We just wanted to say thank you to Candlelighters and their Doggy Day Out event.

“We all really enjoyed it and Amelia had a super day!

“We hope it was a good money raiser for the charity and we’re very proud of Amelia and Jasmine and the money they raised for the sponsored walk.”

Other prizes on the day were awarded for a range of categories including the most Fabulous Fella, Loveliest Lady, Golden Odlie, Best Rescue and Best Junior Handler.

Candlelighters supports families who are affected by childhood cancer by offering a range of practical and financial support.

It also helps to fund additional staff time on wards at Leeds General Infirmary along with therapies, support groups and research.

Hundreds of families in and around Leeds are currently being supported by the charity - which helps people across Yorkshire - including 29 families in the Ilkley area.

About 150 children in Yorkshire alone are diagnosed with some form of cancer each year.

Established in 1976, Candlelighters needs to raise £1.5 million every year to keep providing its services. For more details visit www.candlelighters.org.uk or follow the team on twitter @CandlelightersT.