IT PROVED a day to remember for a County Durham schoolgirl after her three-year-old Dachshund Fred put his best paw forward to help her claim a prestigious prize at Crufts 2017.

Fred was one of 22,000 dogs at Birmingham’s NEC today (Thursday, March 9) - the opening day of the world’s largest show.

He was competing alongside owner Georgia Maskell, of Nettlesworth, near Chester-le-Street, in the Young Kennel Club’s Handling competition for 6-11 year olds.

Presented by the Kennel Club, this year’s Crufts marks the 126th edition of the show, attracting dogs and owners from all over the world - as well as thousands of visitors over the course of the four day event.

And after enjoying their own moment in the spotlight, Georgia, a pupil at Edmondsley Primary School, could not be more delighted with Fred’s performance in the West Midlands after they walked away with first place.

“It’s a great pleasure to win this year,” said the eight-year-old.

“I’m so proud of Fred. He’s such a good-natured dog and we’ve had him since he was just eight weeks old.

“I didn’t expect to win when I came today so when they read mine and Fred’s names it was the best feeling.

“I think I’ll be coming here for the rest of my life!”