A DOG day care and training centre has gained the highest score possible in a new national ratings system.

K9 Pursuits, based in Newton Aycliffe, has been awarded the maximum five stars by Durham County Council under licensing legislation introduced by Defra last year.

The centre, on Whitworth Ave in Aycliffe Business Park, was established in 2006 after three years of planning by best friends Gill Crawford and Andi Rogers, both from Darlington. The pair have extensive experience and qualifications and regularly stage demonstrations at dog shows, including at Crufts.

The five star rating was achieved after a comprehensive inspection of all aspects of the business, and will be dependent on future spot checks to ensure standards are maintained.

Gill said: “We were hoping to get five stars because we’ve always tried really hard to be the best, but you never take anything for granted so when we got that in the post it just put the stamp on it.”

Staff are planning to thank loyal customers and friends at the centre later in the year with an afternoon tea party.

K9 Pursuits offers day care from 7am to 6pm or 7am to 12.30pm offering a fun packed day of activities, including manners training, soft play. hunt the treat, ball play, water activities, agility, individual brain games

The centre also has a fully equipped grooming room with hydro bath and a City and Guilds qualified groomer.

It provides foundation training for puppies and adult dogs, heelwork to music and freestyle, trick training/clicker training, agility and a full range of training options.

For more details of the services on offer, visit the centre or telephone 01325-301177. Information is also available on the website at www.k9pursuitsltd.co.uk/ or visit the Facebook page.