A DOG lover has told how his canine companion helped him in his battle with a rare and painful neurological disorder.

Now Mark Leybourne, from Darlington, is preparing to compete in the world's largest dog agility event, with Ems, his faithful working sheepdog.

The pair will compete in the Kennel Club International Agility Festival, in Leicestershire, for the first time this year.

Mr Leybourne, 50, began to suffer severe pain in the shoulder in March last year.

It was diagnosed shortly after as Parsonage Turner Syndrome, otherwise known as brachial neuritis.

The exact cause of Parsonage Turner Syndrome is unknown, but it is believed to be caused by an abnormality of the immune system.

Describing the onset of the condition as the most painful week of his life, Mr Leybourne said: "A virus decided to nibble away at my nervous system, taking out my right shoulder.

"I couldn't drive, ride my mountain bike or generally get about.

"The pain could last for a few hours to a few weeks and is followed by wasting and weakness of the muscles in the affected area.”

Shortly after his diagnosis, Mr Leybourne met his partner Joanne, who he believes was his saviour.

He added: "I started training with Ems with my arm strapped up.

"It was great to get out and be able to exercise and build up a great relationship with Ems.

"I love agility and I’m really looking to competing at the International Agility Festival this year.”

After training in agility for almost 12 months, test results that showed Mr Leybourne's nervous system had started to repair, and he is slowly on the road to recovery.

Kennel Club secretary Caroline Kisko said: “Mark’s story highlights the range of benefits of having a hobby such as agility.

"Not only is it good for your dog to keep active but also it improves mobility of the owner.

“The International Agility Festival is the largest agility festival in the world.

"Anyone can enter their dog in the show and it’s a fantastic event for both competitors and spectators alike. We wish Mark all the best for the festival.”

The International Agility Festival will be held at Rockingham Castle in Rockingham, from August 13 to 16. More than 2,700 dogs of all types, sizes and experience levels will compete across 16 agility rings, with dogs jumping and weaving their way around the various courses.

For more information on the festival, visit thekennelclub.org.uk/agilityfestival