BEN the golden retriever is famous for hosting glamorous birthday parties.

And what makes the events even more unusual is that all the local dogs are invited, as long as they adhere to a strict black tie dress code.

Tomorrow a party has been planned by Ben's owner Natalie Corengia to mark his fifth birthday.

The 21-year-old, from Old Town, has organised everything from the party games to food.

She said: "I love seeing the dogs so happy. They wag their tails the whole way through and kiss me at the end."

Invitations were sent out weeks ago and four of Ben's walking companions have promised to attend.

On the guest list are red setter Fletcher, 10, beagle Honey, 7, chocolate labrador Chester, 6, golden labrador Molly, 5, and spaniel Daisey, three months.

Ben will be wearing a polka dot bow tie, a flamboyant waistcoat and some special canine eau-de-cologne.

Molly, whose owner lives in the same road as Natalie Sarsen Close will dazzle admirers with a red sequin camisole and a pink tulle skirt.

The event is being held at the Polo Ground, off Marlborough Road.

Natalie will be supported by her family to make sure the arrangements run smoothly.

While she waits on the dogs, her mother, Lynette, will help to entertain the owners.

She said: "We enjoy champagne and cheese straws and the dogs tuck in to all sorts of treats, except alcohol. This will be our fifth party and it has become quite a highlight on our summer calendar. It's funny because we're not really doggy people."

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

Natalie's grandfather, Sidney, 84, from Old Town, will capture all the action on video, ready for the dogs to watch at a later date.

As for music, Molly's owner, Arline Gibney, 59, sings opera.

Lynette said: "People think we're barking. And it's true the dogs do bark a lot, especially when Arlene sings songs from the musical Cats. But everyone has a wonderful time."

After the Scooby Doo cake is cut to Arline's rousing rendition of Jerusalem, the festivities draw to a close and Natalie gives out doggy party bags.

What's on the menu: Sausages, cubes of cheese, dog chews, dog biscuits, water.

Musical offerings will include: CATS, Phantom of the Opera and Starlight Express.

The games the dogs will play: Tug the lead, chase the ball, musical dogs, pass the parcel.