Chester Racecourse is calling on dog owners across Cheshire and the North West to enter their dachshunds for the return of its popular Dachshund Derby.

Following the success of last year's inaugural event, the race will return during the Virgin Bet Autumn Festival on Saturday 12 September.

The event will mirror a traditional horse race, including a lap of the Parade Ring and a Best Turned Out competition for the best-groomed runner.

Each of the 12 selected dogs will win their owner entry to the Virgin Bet Autumn Festival, while the fastest pup will take home a champagne bottle plush toy.

Owners can nominate their sausage dogs by tagging @chesterraces in an Instagram grid post featuring their pet, or by commenting with a photo on the dedicated Facebook post.

The racecourse will shortlist the entries and reshare the images, with the 12 dogs receiving the most votes from followers selected to compete.

Sam Martin, head of marketing and communications at Chester Race Company, said: "The dachshund derby was a big hit last year - people absolutely loved it, so we had to bring it back for another year.

"It adds an extra bit of fun for guests and brings a whole new meaning to 'small victories'.

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"The two-day festival is all about welcoming in Autumn in style, and although summer may be on its way out, a raceday at Chester still promises bags of excitement and spectacle."

Entries are now open and close on 1 September, with the final 12 runners announced on 2 September.

Dog owners can follow @chesterraces on Facebook and Instagram for updates.

Tickets for the Virgin Bet Autumn Festival at Chester Racecourse are still available here.