Stars turn out for dog Oscars

Prized pets will be out in force tonight nervously awaiting the results of the National Golden Bone Awards in Britain.

The canine equivalent of the Oscars recognises dogs and humans who have contributed in some way to the dog world.

There are lifetime achievement awards, awards for dogs who have saved lives and a personality award - for a celebrity who has given up their time for dogs.

Veteran television presenter Katie Boyle, Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe, scriptwriter Carla Lane who wrote the hit series Bread and former EastEnder star Troy Titus Adams are just some of the well-known faces supporting their four-legged friends.

The ceremony, being held at The Radisson Hotel in Manchester, will be a glitzy affair with a champagne reception at 7pm, followed by a meal and then the awards.

There are a total of 15 awards, with dogs receiving six of the coveted trophies.

Organised by the Pet Role Trust - which raises money for canine charities and encourages dog ownership - the evening will double as a fund-raising event.

Last year actress Pam St-Clements, who plays Pat Butcher in the soap EastEnders, took home the personality award for her voluntary work with the RSPCA.