TV presenter Chris Packham will be joined by hundreds of dogs and their walkers at Buckler’s Hard on Saturday April 13 to officially launch the Great British Dog Walk.

They will gather on the banks of the Beaulieu River to raise money for Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, transforming the lives of deaf adults and children across the country. 

The walk, which is supported by Specsavers audiology businesses, is among 12 similar events to be held in picturesque locations across the UK, including the Balmoral Estate in Aberdeenshire, as one of the charity’s key annual fundraisers.

Daily Echo: The Great British Dog Walk will take place at Bucklers Hard

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On the day there will be two walk options – either 7.5km or 4km routes, making it ideal for dog owners, families, single walkers, organised walking groups and those who simply want to meet lots of dogs and get a bit of exercise for a good cause.

There will also be fun additional activities on offer, including a fun dog show and a tombola.

Daily Echo: The Great British Dog Walk

Gill Yeates, Head of Community Fundraising for Hearing Dogs, said that the Great British Dog Walk, now in its ninth year, had proved to be one of the charity’s most popular fundraising events.

“It’s a fun way to get out in the fresh air at some stunning venues and spend time with friends and family, while at the same time raising money for a great cause”, she said. 

"By taking part, you'll be one of hundreds raising funds to create amazing hearing dog partnerships that make a real difference to a deaf person's life."

Anyone taking part in the Buckler’s Hard walk around the beautiful New Forest will be helping to train a hearing dog puppy who will go on to change the life of someone like Anne Pickett and her hearing dog Tegan.

Daily Echo: Anne and Malcolm Pickett

Ann lost her hearing when she had surgery to remove a brain tumour and Tegan has transformed her life, giving her the confidence to go out and about with husband Malcolm and their beloved pup.

Tickets to the Great British Dog Walk are £12 in advance or £15 on the day.

Visit greatbritishdogwalk.org