A FAMILY has diversified their business and transformed one of their fields into an amazing dog park.

Stef Szczerba and her mum Ewa decided to branch out from their horse stud and equestrian business as a result of increasing prices caused by a combination of Brexit and the pandemic.

Their idea was to develop part of the land they own in Great Budworth into a secure doggy paradise, complete with an agility and obstacle course and plenty of space for them to explore and have fun off their leads.

Stef explains: "We run a small stud and equestrian business at home.

"Since Brexit the price of importing horses from Europe has shot up so we got thinking about how we could put our fields to better use.

"We'd heard lots of things about people leaving their dogs at home and being worried about letting them off their lead.

"And because we're so lucky to live in such a nice location, we thought we might be able to help.

"So we decided to invest in putting the dog park together."

Northwich Guardian: The dog park in Great Budworth is proving to be a hit with both dogs and their owners

Stef Szczerba and her mum Ewa decided to tranform one of their fields into a dog park

The park is privately hired out by the hour, so is perfect for dogs of all types, particularly if they have issues socialising with others or if they can't yet be trusted to be let off their leads in public parks and spaces.

"We've got all new fencing and some really top equipment that is Dogs Trust approved," Stef added.

"There is some agility stuff in there too which provides enrichment and helps with regards basic training.

"There is even a picnic bench where people can just chill out and watch their dogs having fun."

Northwich Guardian: The dog park in Great Budworth is proving to be a hit with both dogs and their owners

The agility course is proving to be popular with dogs of all shapes and sizes

The dog park only opened for business on Sunday (July 4), but in just a few days, the idea has caught the attention of canine lovers, with many already booking for repeat visits.

Stef went on: "We've had such an amazing variety of dogs already.

"We've had people here just doing basic puppy training, while others just wanted to have a go at the agility course.

"Other dogs are just hyper-sensitive so don't want to be around other dogs.

"Then we've had people who just want to practice improving their dog to recall.

"We've even had a blind dog visit us and he was so playful, it was amazing to see him just have the freedom to run about.

"There's such a wide use for it I think and the response so far has just been incredible.

"Literally everybody has been thrilled with it and said they can't wait to come back."

Northwich Guardian: The dog park in Great Budworth is proving to be a hit with both dogs and their owners

The dog park is a great way for animals to be allowed freedom, but in a secure environment

There is an online booking system and you can bring one or two dogs for £10 with any additional dogs after that costing just £3 per dog.

"You're not going to mix with any other people, it's completely private and secluded," added Stef.

"So you can just come on your own or double up with a friend, however you want to do it.

"We've met so many nice people over the first few days, it's been lovely.

"There's even a shelter from the rain as the weather hasn't been that kind to us just yet."

Great Budworth Dog Park is located on Georges Lane, Aston by Budworth and is open seven days a week from 6am until 9pm (subject to daylight hours).

For more information or to make a booking go to greatbudworthdogpark.co.uk