More than 40 people took to Titchfield to meet some of the county’s smartest puppies.

Organised by Canine Partners, the assistance dog charity was hoping to attract new volunteers to raise the young dogs before they are trained.

Now the charity is preparing for a second Hampshire event at Hounsdown Community Centre in Totton next month.

Hampshire puppy trainer Rosie Reid said: “I was overwhelmed by the amount of support people showed at our puppy party. I thought our existing puppy parents were brilliant in helping us attract more volunteers.

“Being a puppy trainer is the most satisfying job you could do and it’s great being a part of the Canine Partners family.”

The charity helps to train dogs to assist disabled people, with the canines being taught how to help with washing and at cash machines.

Puppy parents are the carers for the dogs before they reach a year to 14 months old. The Totton event is being held on May 23, with the charity hoping to attract even more recruits.

Among the current puppy parents is Tim Seward, 70, who joined in 2015.

Tim said: “Through volunteering as puppy parents, speakers and fundraisers we have been to places and done all sorts of things we would have never done otherwise.

“There is a huge social side to the role, it broadens your life. It’s never going to be easy when dogs leave you for their advanced training but you have to remember that they’re going to do a wonderful job and they will be absolutely loves.

“We originally wanted to become puppy socialisers for the dogs but once you understand what they do and start meeting partnerships it’s so rewarding.”

Puppy parents receive support from the charity, both at their homes and at training classes, with food, equipment, vet bills and temporary holiday care provided.