If Sid Valley’s dogs could read a calendar, they would be keeping an excited eye on October 1.

Why? That day is 'beach invasion day'.

The pet shop's owners are putting on Toto's Pebble Dash to celebrate the opening up of the seafront to the coastal canine community.

Dogs and their owners are being encouraged to go down to the beach in front of the Belmont Hotel, at 2pm. The Toto team will be handing out treats and poo bags to the assembled tidal tearaways.

Jennifer Jennings-Wright, owner of Toto's of Sidmouth, said: "It's so exciting for dog owners to be able to explore the fabulous expanse of Sidmouth's gorgeous beaches and dogs just love the chance to really stretch their legs, sniff around at the seaweed and have a lovely dip."

From October to May, owners are allowed to walk their dogs on East Devon's beaches, but the district council asks that they respect other beach users and clean up after their pets.