BRITAIN'S second biggest dog show opened its doors yesterday, with organisers confidently predicting record crowds.

About 100,000 animal lovers are expected for the "Crufts of the North" in Darlington this weekend.

Champion canines of every shape and size started arriving in the town yesterday as Darlington Dog Show got under way at the town's South Park.

The show, which has attracted competitors and judges from as far away as Australia and New Zealand, has attracted 10,698 entries this year for the 2,066 classes.

Over the weekend, there will be trade stands, exhibitions and the chance to speak to dog breeders and see more unusual breeds.

The event is the biggest dog show in the region, and class winners qualify for next year's Crufts Championships, at the NEC, Birmingham, in March.

Maureen Hennis, chairwoman of Darlington Dog Show Society, said yesterday: "So far it has been absolutely fantastic. With over 2,000 classes, there is a huge number of people here.

"There are literally thousands of people on the showfield. Not only are there the exhibitors, but there are the trade stands and the general public. It is a great day out.

"It is difficult to estimate how many people will come over the weekend, but we think about 100,000.

"Hotel rooms are very rare in Darlington this weekend because of the show, and the fact that it is bringing people into the town who would not normally come has to be a good thing.

"One exhibitor who had come from north of Inverness was saying it was her favourite show."

Yesterday, the hounds, terriers and utility breeds were on show. Today, working and pastoral dogs will be judged. Tomorrow, there will be gundogs and toy breeds, before the overall champion is chosen.

Darlington's Mayor, Ron Lewis, will present the best of show prizes tomorrow afternoon.