THE pugs came marching two by two for an Easter celebration in Wimborne on Sunday.

Dog lovers came from far and wide to the Grand Easter Pug Parade at The Olive Branch.

More than one hundred pugs were in attendance with their owners putting their creative skills to the test with bonnets, bunny ears and chicks all on show.

The Pug Grumble Club Dorset and South West event was organised by Wimborne resident Alison Williams.

Pug lovers came from outside the area to enjoy the day of fun with prizes up for grabs for the best dressed pug in the parade.

“We set the group up a year ago and it is a place where people with pugs can get together, have events and socialise,” Alison said.

“Every event we have had more and more pugs, and everyone seems to enjoy themselves.

“It was incredible how many people came to the parade and it really surprised me how popular it was.”

Taking part in the parade involved a small donation, which was to raise funds for The Pug Dog Welfare and Rescue Association, which provides a range of support, and The Olive Branch’s charity of choice Dorset Air Ambulance.

The association, which was established in 1973, offers fostering and adoption schemes, veterinary services for pugs in need and general advice for owners.

Alongside the Easter-themed entertainment, visitors were able to enjoy a range of activities and stalls offering animal treats, novelty gifts as well as information and advice on pet welfare.

The first Pug Grumble Club Dorset and South West event took place last summer and since then the popularity and interest has grown.

At Christmas The Olive Branch hosted a Christmas special meet-up, with opportunities for dogs to have photographs taken with Santa.

Benjamin Ward, manager of The Olive Branch, said: “The Pug Parade was Alison’s idea and we were more than happy to let her do it here.

“We donated the space to her and the events have just grown and grown since we did the first one last summer.

“People made a great effort with the pug costumes and it was a really positive event for the community.”

More pug events are being planned for later in the year.