[I]t was a case of every dog having its day for Pyrenean Mountain Dog Gaston as he secured a prestigious prize at Crufts 2018 alongside his Cumbria owner Sandra Gibson.
Six-and-a-half-year-old Gaston put his best paw forward at Birmingham’s NEC, suitably impressing judges to scoop the Best of Breed award.
That made it a Crufts to remember for her 52-year-old owner Sandra, of Newby Bridge, who joined thousands of other canine lovers in descending on the West Midlands for 127th edition of the world’s largest dog show.
An estimated 22,000 pooches visited the NEC during the four-day event, with a record 3,623 four-legged-friends from 49 countries vying for the chance to win the coveted Best in Show.
Visitors learnt about 200 different breeds at the Discover Dogs zone, crossbreeds competed for the Scruffts crown and the Friends for Life event reminded people about the truly inspiring and unique stories that show dogs at their absolute best.
And for dog salon owner Sandra there was no wiping the smile off her face as her beloved Gaston enjoyed his moment in the spotlight.
“It’s lovely to have won. We have had best puppy as well too, so we have had a great day,” said Sandra, after winning her seventh best of breed certificate.
“This is the first time we have won from one of our home bred dogs, so it is extra special.”