WALKERS in Shooters Hill might have wondered if they were barking mad on seeing a pack of dogs roaming around in festive fancy dress on Sunday.

There were 20 rescued bull terriers kitted out in doggy-sized Santa costumes in Oxleas Wood to raise awareness of a "lovely" breed on December 16.

The walk highlighted the dogs’ plight – many of whom were rescued having suffered horrendous injuries and need expensive treatment before they can be re-homed.

Organiser of the event, run by charity Absolute Bull Terrier Rescue, Karen Lang said: "It was a really great walk. We got a lot of interest in the dogs – a lot of people stopping.

"It was about awareness, raising funds and showing they are a lovely breed of dogs."

To find out more about the breed and to see how you could help a rescued English bull terrier visit absolutebullterriers.co.uk