The 125th anniversary of Crufts has ended on a high, with an exciting Best in Show final seeing Devon (Ch Burneze Geordie Girl), a West Highland White Terrier take home the coveted title tonight (Sunday March 13th).
In a packed arena, Devon, who is two years old in July and Marie Burns, a Kennel Club Assured Breeder from Bishop Auckland, County Durham were cheered on as they were chosen by top judge, Derek Smith and awarded the prestigious Crufts Best in Show title by Matthias Schiller, MD Europe Spectrum Brands/Eukanuba. The historic moment was captured live on Channel 4 and watched online around the world.
Almost 22,000 pedigree dogs from around the world competed at the Birmingham NEC over four days for just seven places in the Crufts 2016 Best in Show final. The other six finalists were, Jen the German Spitz Klein, Eric the Pekingese, Zony the Border Collie, James the Gordon Setter, Hazel the Whippet and Hector the Bouvier Des Flandres.
Devon's, owner, Marie said of her win: "I can't believe it, it was amazing. She is a typical terrier, a bit of a tomboy, very independent and fun to be around. I'm so thankful to everyone who has helped us get there. I can't believe it she's the first West Highland Terrier to win in more than 20 years."
The Reserve Best in Show award was won by Hazel, the Whippet, owned by Charlie Donaldson from Middlebie, Dumfrieshire, who was also bred by a Kennel Club Assured Breeder.
Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club Secretary, said: "This has been a fantastic year and a wonderful final, and it's clear to see why, for 125 years, Crufts has been one of the major British events.
"Congratulations to Devon who helped end this year's competition on a high note, taking the prestigious Best in Show award with her owner, Marie Burns.
"This year has been such a great show, with dogs and their handlers showing their fantastic relationship across a range of dog sports and competitions."
The results for Crufts 2016 can be found online at www.press.fossedata.co.uk. For free downloadable images from Crufts 2016, please go to www.w-w-i.com/crufts_2016/.