A SPONSORED dog walk has raised vital funds for York’s St Leonard’s Hospice.

A total of 140 dogs and their owners took part in the hospice’s annual Paws for a Cause fundraiser at the University of York Heslington East campus to raise money for patient care.

There was a choice of a gentle one-mile walk for puppies, or dogs with young handlers, or a more challenging four-mile route.

Dogs were entered in fun classes and a dog show, and won prizes for scruffiest mutt, waggiest tail, best veteran for seven years plus, favourite family - two dogs minimum, 14 legs maximum, and the highly sought-after title of cutest canine, which had 57 entrants.

Sponsorship money is due in by November 6, and a total will be announced at a later date.