Hector, a Bouvier Des Flandres from Windsor, Berkshire won Best in Group for Working breeds at Crufts 2016 today (Saturday March 12th), qualifying for a place in the Best in Show final tomorrow evening.
Hector (Ch Liskport Lord Of The Rings), aged two, will return to the Genting Arena at the NEC in Birmingham for a place in the final of the 125th anniversary of Crufts with his handler, Michael Craig. People around Britain and the world will be watching to see which dog is crowned Best in Show as the final is shown live on Channel 4 and streamed on the official Crufts YouTube Channel - www.youtube.com/crufts.
Almost 22,000 dogs are competing over the four days for one of just seven places in the Crufts final and a chance to win the most celebrated title in the world of dogs.
Proud handler, Michael from Coventry said: "I am completely overcome. Hector is such a special dog, he is a real hero. It was amazing."
Fiona Lambert, Hector's owner: "Hector is a bit of a clown and very popular, people warm to him very quickly. This is a major achievement. The dogs really love Mike and he gets the best out of them. This is really special for us as Crufts is an incredible show."
Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club Secretary, said: "Congratulations to Hector for winning Best in Group today - it is going to be an exciting final tomorrow.
"Crufts celebrates healthy, happy dogs and recognises the special and unique bond between dogs and their owners. Hector is such a lovely dog that clearly loves being in the show ring and has a great relationship with his handler.
"Hector and Michael should be very proud of reaching the Best in Show final - it's an incredible achievement and not one many get to experience. We wish them all the best for tomorrow."
For more information, visit www.crufts.org.uk. 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/.