Coronavirus lockdown has failed to dampen community spirit in Blackfordby where the village is staging its first fun dog show...virtually.

Village dog-lovers had planned to hold the show as part of a bigger Picnic on the Green event being organised this summer.

But the coronavirus pandemic put paid to their plans.

Now, news of the ultimate socially distanced canine competition has struck a chord with enthusiastic dog owners and dozens of entries are flooding in.

Villager, and one of the virtual show organisers, Colin Carr told Ashby Nub News: "Myself and other dog-loving villagers were planning to hold our first very real fun dog show on the village green next month, as part of a bigger Picnic on the Green organised by Blackfordby's Events Team.

"But of course coronavirus put a block on all that, not to mention the regular Blackfordby Open Gardens this year.

"So it seemed like a good idea to move it to Facebook, at least for 2020.

"So far, entries have been coming in thick and fast with some truly extraordinary photos - some brilliant, some just plain funny.

"Blackfordby residents have been very supportive - you could say they have bitten my hand off to take part - and I cannot wait to share the images and winners when the contest is judged anonymously after the closing date in a couple of weeks.

"Due to the high volume of entries we're getting dogs must at the very least have a strong association with Blackfordby or the contest is at risk of becoming a full time job!"

There are more than 20 rosettes up for grabs - 1st, 2nd and 3rd - across eight different classes:

Fab Fella (best boy)

Gorgeous Girl (best girl)

Best Puppy (up to the age of 18 months)

Best Fancy Dress

Best Scruffy Dog

Best Rescue

Best Pedigree

Golden Oldie (any dog over the age of 8)

Entry is free and dog owners should email a JPEG photo, stating the class or classes being entered, plus their name and contact information to Colin at [email protected] by the closing date on 6 June.

Entries will be forwarded to the judge anonymously and the results announced via Facebook.

Images will then be shared online, again anonymously, for everyone to enjoy.