DOG LOVERS are invited to a canine cake-baking contest in Oxfordshire dubbed the Great Barking Bake Off.

Rescue charity Forever Hounds Trust is holding the contest as part of a dog-friendly afternoon tea party at Buscot Park in Faringdon on Sunday, September 18.

Inspired by the return of the Great British Bake Off to television screens this month, event organisers have challenged pet owners to make mouthwatering cakes for both humans and dogs.

While human cakes will be judged on the usual fluffy texture, smooth icing and beautiful decoration, dog cakes will have to be a very different affair.

Chocolates, raisins and grapes are all strictly forbidden, but things like dog biscuits and liver are recommended as likely to win tasters' approval.

Visitors can enter one or both categories, with a suggested donation of £2.50 per entry.

Forever Hounds Trust fundraising co-ordinator Claire Gambrell said: "There will be special prizes for those crowned star baker on the day and we know the dogs are all keen to help with the judging of the competition."

As well as the Great Barking Bake Off there will also be lots of other attractions for both humans and hounds at the event, which starts at 11.30am at the home of the charity’s Honorary Friend, Lord Faringdon.

The "fun dog show" is sure to draw a big crowd, and the homeless hounds parade will see dogs in need of a forever home take to the show ring.

There will also be an auction, raffle, market stalls and of course plenty of tea and cake available.

For more information including guidance on baking a canine cake visit foreverhoundstrust.org