ORGANISERS of DogFest at Arley Hall have apologised after visitors slammed its 'shambolic organisation' as hundreds were stranded in their vehicles trying to get to the event.

The annual event, which has proved to be a big hit with dog lovers in the past, has been heavily criticised by those trying to get to the estate near Northwich today, Saturday.

Hundreds have complained on DogFest's Facebook page asking for refunds after complaining of being stranded in their hot cars with their dogs.

The small lanes around Arley Hall were packed with cars trying to get to the event, which is also being held tomorrow, Sunday.

Hayley Tilston asked the company on its Facebook page: "Please advise how refunds will be made to people who spent half of the event sitting in a queue of traffic in hot cars with their dogs as a result of your poor organisation and customer service."

Nick Druce added: "Your reputation has been irreparably damaged. 

"What an absolute disgrace you should be ashamed as a business who claims to care about dogs.

"A piece of advice if you are expecting large numbers then logistics should form a huge part of your organisational plans.

"Look for a better more accessible place!"

Peter Holt said: "Absolutely shambolic! I've never experienced such disorganisation.

"Had I not already bought my ticket, I would have turned around and gone home. Not only did I have to wait for hours in the car with a disgruntled doggie, we also missed the fun dog shows that we had already paid for!!

"I sent a message to DogFest while I was still stuck in traffic, to which I have had no reply. When charging so much for a ticket, the least you can do is employ some decent event parking professionals."

The company posted the following on its Facebook page on Saturday evening: "We would like to issue a sincere apology to those who have been caught in traffic while trying to get to DogFest at Arley Hall this afternoon.

"Rest assured we have been working hard on the ground to rectify this arranging extra car parking, traffic control and additional signage.

"For those planning on coming to DogFest tomorrow we hope the additional measures we have put in place will ensure the same problems do not reoccur.

"For everyone who came today we would like to say thank you and for those coming tomorrow we can't wait to see you."

Were you stuck in the traffic trying to get to Arley Hall? Email james.wilson@nqnw.co.uk