The organisers of last year’s Bowood Dog Show and Summer Fair have handed over more than £20,000 to local groups and charities.

More than £8,000 was given to Macmillan Cancer Support, while £2,800 each was presented to the Wiltshire Bobby Van Trust, Age UK Wiltshire and Wiltshire Blind Association.

There were also smaller donations to a number of groups including Calne Air Cadets and Headway.

Lady Lansdowne, who set up the show in 2006, said: “I never thought that over the years it would become an annual show that was capable of raising such sums of money.

“Charities are now seeing their grants being cut and funding reduced.

“I know as a result of this event every pound we can give them will help during this difficult time.”

The dog show has now raised more than £100,000 in total for local charities and plans are already underway for the 2011 show.

Lady Lansdowne said: “Without the sponsors and visitors who come from far and wide none of this would be possible and I hope they will continue to support us.”

Organisers have some exciting prospects lined up for the 2011 show. The Essex Dog Display Team will return with their stunning routines and food writer Tom Parker-Bowles, son of the Duchess of Cornwall, will be giving cookery demonstrations.

Polly Bishop, fundraising manager for Macmillan Wiltshire, said: “I must say a huge thank you to Lady Lansdowne and the show committee, without whom the event would not be possible.”