NOT all superheroes wear capes.

In fact the Essex and Herts Air Ambulance Trust is on the lookout for those that wear collars instead.

A unique fundraiser for the service the Heli Hound Walk, now in its fifth year, sees hundreds of residents and their canine companions descend on the beautiful gardens of the Marks Hall Estate in Coggeshall.

The Heli Hounds Dog Walk Day kicks off on March 5 from the air ambulance office on the Earls Colne Business Park.

A scenic five mile route takes the dogs through the grounds of Marks Hall with plenty of time along the way for them to get to know each other, as well as allowing the owners to get chatting as well.

There is even a pit stop set up at the Marks Hall visitors centre, where dog treats and plenty of water will be provided.

Pampered pooches and scruffy mutts have the chance of becoming the poster dog of next year’s event, in a photo competition which will be decided on the day.

Judging takes place after the walk to find the dog who looks the most heroic in their submitted photo - with the winner being selected from eight finalists,

The winner will receive a crown and become the famous face of the event for 2018.

Money might not mean very much to dogs, however it means a lot to humans and even more to the charity’s lifesaving work around the county.

The air ambulance wants those who take part to collect as much money from sponsorship as they can, with just £30 being enough to save someone’s life in a case in some circumstances.

Pre-registration for the walk costs just £5 and must be done before March 3.

The photo competition closes on February 22.

Follow #HeliHounds on Twitter for updates on the competition or to get involved with the discussion about what makes up the perfect hero.

To register visit http://bit.ly/2kW07OZ or call 0345 2417 690.