The region’s biggest-ever Staffordshire Bull Terrier dog walk is expected to take place later this month as the popular Staffy Trail comes to an end.
The Big Staffy Stroll will take place at Weston Park on the Staffordshire/Shropshire border on Saturday, 18 July, with dog lovers invited to enjoy a special group walk and exclusive mini Staffy Trail.
While organisers are hoping to see a record number of Staffordshire Bull Terriers at the Big Staffy Stroll, the event is open to everyone and any dogs.
The guided group walk will begin at 10am and will be led by two of Staffordshire’s most iconic Staffordshire Bull Terriers – Sergeant Watchman VI and Sergeant Watchman VII – accompanied by their handler, Warrant Officer Greg Hedges.
After the walk, visitors can enjoy refreshments and meet volunteers from the Senior Staffy Club Dog rescue charity, who will be available between 10am and 12pm to talk about their work and new rescue kennels due to open in Stafford next year. There will also be information about days out in Staffordshire.
The Big Staffy Stroll marks the finale of the 10-week Staffy Trail, which has seen 11 individually painted sculptures of Staffordshire’s new visitor mascot Staffy dotted around the county.
Different themed weeks have been held to encourage people to hunt them down, unlock exclusive rewards and support local businesses and attractions.
Robin Hall, Staffordshire County Council’s cabinet member for economy and skills, said: “The Staffy Trail has brought together communities, businesses and visitors from across the country, so it’s only fitting that we finish with one big celebration.
“We’d love to see as many people as possible join us at Weston Park – and please bring your Staffy if you have one.”
Andrea Webster, head of marketing at Weston Park and board member of Staffy Trail delivery partner Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP), said: “The Staffy Trail has captured people’s imagination and shown the power of partnership working to showcase Staffordshire.
“We’re excited to welcome visitors to Weston Park for what promises to be a brilliant finale and a wonderful celebration of our county.”
Visitors to Weston Park can take part in the Big Staffy Stroll with a discounted admission ticket costing £6.50 per person.
The mini Staffy Trail and park grounds will be open to enjoy throughout the day.
Tickets can be purchased via this link.
