ALRESFORD dog Blaze gave his owner a day she’ll never forget when he made the Scruffts final for crossbreed dogs at last week’s Crufts show.

Marie Hamlin, of Windsor Road, and her 10-year-old Lakeland Terrior-cross-Jack Russell were among six to be shortlisted, though he didn’t go on to win the class.

“The whole of the day was like a dream, it doesn’t really seem like reality that my little dog got to this stage,” said the dispensary manager.

Blaze won the Good Citizen Dog Scheme Crossbreed Award before being put forward for the crossbreed final of the competition held at Birmingham’s NEC.

“I feel like I owe Blaze this and I hope he has enjoyed himself,” said Marie.

“I love him so much, I didn’t realise at the time I got him that I needed a dog, but I wouldn’t be here without him.

“This is why today was so fantastic. It is great to see an event that recognises and show appreciation for crossbreeds as well, and how amazing they are.”

22,000 dogs attended this year’s Crufts show, run by the Kennel Club.

The annual event has since been plunged into controversy following allegations that a cluster of animals were poisoned.