SPECTATORS defended themselves with ear-plugs and wellies as around 250 sled dogs descended on a Dorset estate commence battle in a national rally competition.

A howling oac of Siberian huskies, Alaskan malamutes and Eskimo dogs swept through the Woodlands Manor Estate near Verwood duhring the millennium rally series staged by Affiliated British Sled Dogs Activities.

A total of 80 teams took part in the event, which saw owners – known as mushers – clambering into three-wheeled rigs pulled along by teams of two to six dogs.

Eah team raced against the clock to complete rhe three-mile trail, dodging hazards like tree roots, puddles and local wildlife. with the fastest in each category scooping valuable points to add to their seasonal total.