WE are taking the time to congratulate some of the winners and attendees of Crufts 2024 from Tynedale.
Sue McCabe, 49, from Ponteland, travelled to Birmingham on Thursday, March 7, and stayed until Sunday, March 10, with her Jack Russel Terrier JellyBean.
Sue runs a behavioural advice and training for dogs called Muttamorphosis.
She said: "Jellybean and I had another wonderful year at Crufts.
"Ever the showman, Jellybean enjoyed every minute of his time, sampling treats, choosing toys and meeting lots of other Jack Russells and their owners, including his breeder.
"The highlight of the show for us wasn’t winning a second and a fourth place, but rather watching Jellybean’s dad Zen get reserved Best in Show.
"I’m so proud of my boy who gives his very best at everything we do together.
"It’s lovely to have a judge select my dog, but I always feel I go home with the winner!
"After a couple of days to recover, Jellybean is back chasing balls and getting muddy walking in the local fields."
Carol Gibson from Stocksfield also had a great time. She finally beat her previous placements and came in first with her nine-month-old Welsh springer spaniel puppy.
"I have been going to Crufts for more than ten years, and I have never placed first," she said.
"We have always placed third or fourth with larger and older breeds, but we are thrilled to bits as she is only nine months old.
"She is a very happy and outgoing girl, so we are glad that everyone was able to see it."
Anne Barreto from Ponteland was also pleased with her one-year-old pooch Hugo, who won both of his classes in his first time at Crufts too and qualified for next year's event.
Anne, 55, is a self-employed jewellery maker who has competed in local competitions with one of her many dogs. This was her first time in a National competition, as she is normally an audience member at Crufts.
Anne said: "Hugo exceeded all my expectations and was brilliant. He is very good at local shows, and it showed at Crufts, as he did an amazing job getting placed in both categories.
"He will be in a different category next year, as he will be older but we are still going to keep practising in local shows to do even better."
Poppy Coleby, 18, from Standfordham, not only competed but was recognised for the award for overcoming her hidden disabilities. Over the last two years, she has been diagnosed with Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunctions/dysautonomia, POTS (Postural Tachycardia Syndrome) Vasovagal Syncope and Ehlers Danlos Syndrome.
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