AN award-winning pet named top dog at Crufts this year owes much of its success to a Malton veterinary practice.

That is the view of breeder Sheila Amos, whose two-year-old Clumber Spaniel Maggie won first prize in the post-graduate section of its breed.

Mrs Amos, of Irton, near Scarborough, said she could not have won without the help of veterinary nurse Michelle Coatsworth, of Mount Vets.

"Michelle groomed Maggie and accompanied us to the competition. I have taken Maggie there on a regular basis to be groomed," she said.

Maggie, whose kennel name is Oxwell Shady Lady, now qualifies automatically for entry into next year's competition.