An animal charity has said dogs visiting the Royal Norfolk Show this year could be at risk after the event's organisers chose to dispense with its dog crèche.

PACT, based near Watton, took over the running of the crèche from the RSPCA five years ago and has seen it well used during the two-day show, with more than 130 dogs using the crèche last year.

However, the charity has been informed that the service won't be needed this year's event on June 29 and 30, prompting concerns about the safety of dogs visiting the show ground.

Chris Rockingham, of PACT, said: 'I think it is disgusting, because dogs may die. If they do, it will damage the show for the future.

'Obviously we are incensed because we were not told. It has cost the charity money to prepare for this, but the big issue is the dogs.

'Taking a dog means there are areas you cannot go, and if it is a hot day it is very distressing for the dogs if they are walking around all day.'

Mrs Rockingham said she rang the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Society to check why PACT's tickets had not yet been delivered, only to be told that a decision had been made six months ago not to open the crèche at this year's show.

The Harry Hall dog crèche was the brainchild of Eastern Daily Press cartoonist Tony Hall, who named it in memory of his dog.

It provided a place for show goers to leave their furry friends while they attended parts of the showground where the animals are not allowed, such as eating areas and the dog show.

Although there was no charge for using the crèche, PACT regularly made around £500 in donations across the two-day show.

Mark Nicholas, Show and Programmes Director for the Royal Norfolk Show, said: 'We can confirm that there will not be a dog crèche available at this year's Royal Norfolk Show. This decision is something which is in line with many county shows around the country.

'However, well-behaved dogs are, as always, welcome at the show. All we ask is that dogs are kept on a lead at all times to ensure their safety and that of others.

'In no circumstances should dogs be left unattended in vehicles.'

For full coverage of the Royal Norfolk Show, check out next week's Eastern Daily Press or go to www.edp24.co.uk.