Clarks Village in Street, Somerset gets unlikely new 'CEO'

The golden miniature dachshund has taken on the role of Canine Executive Officer at Clarks Village in Street after winning a public vote in the outlet's Pawsome Pooch competition last year.

Archie the dachshund carrying out his duties as Clarks Village's Canine Executive Officer (Image: Clarks Village)

Since taking up his duties, Archie has been helping to maintain the centre's dog-friendly credentials by inspecting water bowls, testing out treats and greeting visitors with a pawshake.

Clarks Village, which has more than 90 stores and restaurants, says the four-legged executive also keeps a close eye on the shopping outlet's gardens and outdoor spaces.

The shopping destination is popular with dog owners, with dogs welcome in most stores, wide walkways and landscaped gardens throughout the site.

It has also been named the UK's most dog-friendly shopping centre at the DogFriendly Awards for the past two years.

Mike Jones, centre director at Clarks Village, said: "We're incredibly dog-friendly here at Clarks Village and are proud to have our very own Canine Executive Officer to make sure things stay that way.

"Archie is a fur-bulous member of the team, and he is always welcome, particularly as we get ready for this year's Pawsome Pooch."

Archie the dachshund visited stores at Clarks Village as part of his role as the shopping outlet's Canine Executive Officer (Image: Clarks Village)

The next Pawsome Pooch event will take place on September 12 and 13 and will feature free activities for dogs and their owners, including agility sessions, pet pampering, professional photo shoots and a new dog walk.

The event will also include a competition to find Clarks Village's next Canine Executive Officer, with entrants in with a chance of winning prizes worth up to £500.

Visitors taking part in the free pet photo shoots will receive a digital portrait of their dog and automatic entry into the competition.