WOOFSTOCK UK organisers say they are happy to iron out any concerns people have over next year’s planned dog festival in Dartmouth.

Festival founder Heather Nesbitt, from Blackawton, said she hoped people would contact her so she could give reassurances over the 2017 doggie event next August on Coronation Park which has got the go-ahead from South Hams Council.

It follows health and safety concerns raised last week by Dartmouth Town Coun­cil’s general purposes committee.

The festival already has the support of the three Dartmouth district councillors and many of the town’s businesses have expressed support via social media.

But some town councillors are worried about the clean up operation after the show.

Ms Nesbitt said: ’We need to make clear that Woofstock UK 2017 is going ahead on Saturday, August 5, 2017.

’We got approval from the district council who own the land. However, a couple of town councillors continue to put unnecessary objections forward, which are not helpful to promoting the great dog friendly town Dart­mouth is. Some of their comments are not based on any facts at all.’

She added: ‘I wish people would come and talk to us about any concerns they have so we can give assurances and take on board any ideas or comments.

‘If people have thoughts or idea, then we want to hear them. This is your town and if we are missing something, then please tell us. It’s our first year in Dart­mouth and we want to get it right.’

Ms Nesbitt said she under­stood some accommodation providers in Dart­mouth had already taken bookings based on next year’s Woofstock.

She said the festival would be properly managed and animal welfare was a priority.There will be paddling pools for the dogs, numerous water drinking bowls on site and shelter areas for people and pets to take time out.

Dogs will always be on leads unless performing in the agility ring, she said.

The doggie saga continues to prompt comment on social media with posts being made on the Chron­icle’s website. Colin Monck­ton said: ‘It’s a bad reflection on the councillors not the town. Businesses welcome responsible dog owners – how many places can say that? One or two councillors are telling business they do not need any more customers!

‘Could the council be more mature and say “great event, let’s work with the organisers to make it a success and ensure all health and safety needs met”, as we know these events have a great track record and Dartmouth welcomes all visitors.’

Carol Hollett said: ‘Dart­mouth councillors are not doing themselves any favours. I have made a mental note that Dartmouth is not the place to look for dog-friendly holidays this year or next. What a shame their minds are so closed to a fun day out that raises money for charities.’

Gillian Seaman added: ‘It’s sad that a few councillors are making Dartmouth seem so unfriendly not just for those in favour of Woofstock UK but for others who may be planning to visit. Personally I think it sounds like a fun day that raises money for charity and brings in custom for the local area. A pity that the council killjoys cannot or will not see that.’Woofstock UK can be contacted by email at [email protected].

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