A DOG training team may not sweep the board at this year's Crufts show, but at least they will look the part.

The Barney Bullets flyball team, which is part of the Barnard Castle dog training team, will be competing against groups from across the country when they take part in the dog show, at the NEC, Birmingham.

However, as one of the smallest clubs in the country, funding the trip has proved difficult in previous years.

And with the event being televised, the flyball team was determined not to be the only one at the show without a matching tracksuit.

So in stepped local businessman Richard Hawlor, of Creative Manufacturing Solutions, who agreed to provide the team with tracksuits.

Other groups and organisations from Barnard Castle also rallied round to help the team, with sponsored swims and other fundraising events.

Team member Mandy Bainbridge said: "As it's being televised, deciding what to wear was quite a problem, especially as all the other competing teams have matching tracksuits.

"But Richard has come to the rescue and has kindly donated a tracksuit to every single member of the team, including reserves. The team can now at least look the part."

The Barney Bullets have been drawn to compete on Saturday, and if they win their heat they will go on to the next round on Sunday. The finals will be held on Bank Holiday Monday