Ref. 24944-50BEN the golden retriever always celebrates his birthday with a glamorous party for his closest canine family and friends.

But this year Ben is inviting every dog in Swindon because he wants to raise as much money as possible for charity.

Ben, five, has booked the Supermarine Rugby Club, in South Marston, for May 30. He hopes hundreds of dogs will attend to support the Rowdy Bunch, a youth club for the disabled, in Marlowe Avenue.

His owner Natalie Corengia, 21, of Sarsen Close, has learning difficulties and is a member.

She said: "Ben is my best friend and his parties are fantastic fun. He's so thoughtful."

The Rowdy Bunch aims to raise £22,000 so its 36 members, aged between 12 and 24, can go on holiday to Devon in August.

Admission costs £2 a dog, including entry to the fancy dress competition.

Besides feasting on goodies such as sausages, dog biscuits and chews, the guests will play games, such as tug the lead, chase the ball and musical dogs.

Plenty of refreshments and entertainment for humans are also planned, including a barbecue, bar, bouncy castle, go-karts and car boot sale.

Ben's family and friends are already planning their party outfits. His cousin, Willow, four, is travelling from Gloucester to attend and will be dressed up as superman.

Ben's neighbour golden labrador Molly, five, is known for being moody so she will come as a grumpy old woman.

Spaniel Daisey, one, will transform herself into a ballerina. And beagle Honey, eight, will probably come as a sheep because her owners come from Wales.

Natalie's mother Lynette has helped organise the birthday parties ever since Ben was a puppy.She said: "Ben goes for walks with his friends every day. He's very sociable, so likes to party just like humans. At first the parties were just an intimate gathering. But they keep growing because Ben's so popular."

Last year more than a dozen dogs met at the Polo Ground, in Marlborough Road, to give Ben the bumps.

Mrs Corengia said: "It went down a treat. All the dogs had an absolute ball."

In keeping with tradition, Molly's owner Arline Gibney, 59, will provide the music. Last year she sang hits from the musical Cats and this year she has chosen songs from Fame.

The festivities start at noon and will last until early evening, when every canine will receive a doggy bag to take home. To book a dog in for the party call 01793 531597.

Victoria Tagg