DAWLISH Warren is to host a mass gathering of schnauzer dogs.

For the seventh year, the Dawlish Warren Schnauzerfest Group will be meeting up on October 20.

As well as meeting fellow dog owners, the event raises money for the breed’s charity.

Over the seven years, the groups has raised more than £2,700 for Schnauzerfest, a grant giving charity which supports rescues, fosters and adopters by paying vets bills.

The local group now has 177 members, and meets four times a year.

Organiser Lynda Bowler, who has two rescue schnauzers adopted through Schnauzerfest, explained: ‘The driver is on raising funds for the work of Schnauzerfest but also building awareness locally, meeting like-minded people and having fun with our dogs.

‘Although we meet four times a year, October is traditionally the main focus for Schnauzerfest walks around the country with people and dogs wearing something orange, which is the key Schnauzerfest colour.

‘All our members are considerate dog owners, and respect the environment where we walk by following the countryside code and any local or seasonal exclusions for dogs.’

The organisation also makes potential dog buyers aware of poor breeding institutes and unethical ‘puppy farming’.