Pete Wicks honoured with dog-walking trail

A dog-walking trail at an Essex country park has been named after TV personality Pete Wicks.

Explore Essex, part of Essex County Council, unveiled the route at Weald Country Park near Brentwood.

Wicks, 37, who has appeared on The Only Way is Essex and Strictly Come Dancing, has been praised for his work as a Dogs Trust ambassador.

Speaking at the trail launch on Thursday, Wicks said it was as much of an "honour" as it was "embarrassing" to have it named after him.

"This is like being knighted for me," he added.

"Walking dogs has been a massive part of my life and having somewhere pre-planned and ready to go makes it so much easier."

Wicks has become an outspoken advocate for animal welfare and frequently uses his platform to promote dog adoption and responsible ownership.

The new trail has been designed to provide a safe and accessible route for walkers and their dogs.

Ricky Hooper, manager of Essex country parks, said it was "really inspiring to see someone from Essex raise so much awareness around mental health – for which a walk in the park can have a positive impact".

Wicks has been a volunteer for various animal charities for more than a decade, which included joining a Humane Society International mission to South Korea to help shut down a dog meat farm.

Away from the cameras, he lives with his two rescue dogs Eric and Rodney.

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