A SPONSORED pier-to-pier walk is being held in aid of Guide Dogs for the Blind.

Tendring Council’s chairman Mark Platt is pleading with dog owners and their pooches to pound the promenade between two piers.

Mr Platt has arranged the event which is taking place on Saturday, May 20, at 10am, starting from Clacton Pier and ending at Walton Pier.

Refreshments will be supplied courtesy of Clacton Pavilion and the event is being supported by Gym Fit, and Love to Shop Local, with ice-creams for all those taking part at Walton Pier.

Mr Platt said he was keen to support the charity which aims to provide people with sight loss with the support they need to be able to move around safely and confidently, to get out of their homes and be able to live life the way they choose.

Mr Platt said: “It is a tremendous privilege to know that in joining together as a community, we will be helping to enhance the lives of people who are not blessed with the gift so many of us take for granted.

“We are lucky to live in one of the most beautiful parts of the country.

"Whether you have a dog to walk – or simply want to walk yourself, I hope people will join us for this exciting event.

Mr Platt will be joined by UK guide dog owner Sean Dilley and Catty Zgubea, who is from Romania.

Mr Dilley, who will be accompanied by guide dog Sammy, said: “Guide Dogs are literally life changers.

"I am so delighted that Tendring Council has decided to choose to support Guide Dogs and to help the charity reach even more people who are visually impaired or blind."

Anyone wanting to take part in the dog walk can sign up at Clacton Town Hall or turn up on the day at Clacton Pier.

The entry fee for adults is £5 per person and children aged five to 14 can join in for just £1, with under-fives free.