A WORLD record breaking attempt that looked like it was going to the dogs has been saved at the 11th hour.

Organisers of the Great North Dog Walk, which aims to bring the record for the world's largest dog walk back to the North-East, were about to pull the plug on the event because of a lack of funds.

But dog food manufacturer Butcher's has paid £6,000 to help.

For organiser Tony Carlisle, the financial backing gives him a chance to reclaim the record from a group in the US, which won it last year with 5,921 dogs.

He said: "I used to hold the record, but then a group from Texas challenged me and won.

"So now it is my turn to fight back and I am confident that we can get at least 6,000 dogs involved.

"It would be great if we could go even further and sign up 10,000."

The free-to-enter 3-mile walk is being staged at The Leas, South Shields, on Sunday, June 22. Participants will be sponsored to raise money for Guide Dogs for the Blind, Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, Pets As Therapy, and NCDL.

Yetunde Ige, of Butcher's Pet Care, said: "The walk is all about fun and agility, which is perfect for Butcher's fitness message.

"When we heard about the problems Tony had in raising cash, we were keen to help, and hopefully with our support, he can bring the record back."

To take part in the walk, visit www.cooksondogwalk.co.uk