PUPPY pals were back once again to bring some joy to residents at mid Essex leisure centres.

The Essex Therapy Dogs visited Halstead Leisure Centre as part of Fusion Lifestyle’s Social Spaces initiative last week.

Visitors enjoyed playing with and petting the dogs, learning about the benefits of therapy dogs and enjoying a free cup of tea and biscuits.

Braintree and Witham Times: REST AND RELAX: Halstead Leisure Centre enjoyed having Monty come to visitREST AND RELAX: Halstead Leisure Centre enjoyed having Monty come to visit (Image: N/A)

On Wednesday the group was also joined by Monty the golden retriever.

Braintree and Witham Times: PUPPY STROKES: Two guests at the Halstead Leisure Centre spending time with MontyPUPPY STROKES: Two guests at the Halstead Leisure Centre spending time with Monty (Image: N/A)

It is not the first time the leisure centres enjoyed the dogs' company, with a previous visit happening in February.

As part of the Social Spaces scheme, which runs every Wednesday from 8.45am to 11.45am, people can have a swim or gym session for 50p, or just relax in the leisure centre foyer and enjoy a book swap and board games.

The dogs were very popular and will be returning on May 17 and June 21 from 10am to 11am.

Braintree and Witham Times: ALL SMILES: Children loved spending time with the dogs at the Witham Leisure CentreALL SMILES: Children loved spending time with the dogs at the Witham Leisure Centre (Image: N/A)

The dogs also visited Witham Leisure Centre on Friday, April 14.

During the visit, dogs Dusty and Dora entertained children and adults, with some children even feeding them their favourite dog biscuits.

The Witham future visits will be Friday, May 12 and Friday, June 9, from 10am to 11am.