FORMER Blue Peter presenter John Noakes, who was famous for telling his sheepdog Down Shep, would have been a top performer at an event held in Manningford Bruce.

The Manningford dog training group led by Jane Dennis from Fyfield, held a sponsored Down and Stay to raise funds for the charity Pets as Therapy.

Mrs Dennis's dog Diezel, a Patterdale terrier cross whippet, is a therapy dog and regularly visits Anzac House in Devizes where he is a favourite with the elderly residents.

Many of the people in sheltered or grouped accommodation miss the pets they had when they were able to lead independent lives.

Mrs Dennis said Diezel he loves his visits to Anzac House as much as the residents do. She said: "They all want to give him biscuits and they look forward to his visits.

"Some of them suffer with dementia but they remember the dog. They don't remember my name but the dog's, yes."

Mrs Dennis said Diezel has an inner sense that makes him aware the old people are frail and that he must contain his boisterous nature.

She said: "There is one old lady who likes to walk along with him so he walks ever so slowly so that she can keep up."

Two dog training groups in Manningford have raised £400 for PAT between them.

Anyone wanting to know more about PAT can call the national office 0870 240 1239 or visit the web site: www.petsastherapy.org