A TUTOR has spoken of her surprise after her four-year-old Havanese dog Milo put his best paw forward to claim the Best of Breed Award at Crufts 2017.

Catherine Muscroft, from Newton-le-Willows, walked away with the prestigious prize after she and Milo beat 22,000 other pooches to the top gong at the world’s largest dog show held at in Birmingham.

Catherine, 49, who attends Leigh Canine Society, said: “I felt very nervous before the show and when I was out there but I’m over the moon at what’s happened

“I’m also really surprised, he’s a fantastic dog and he’s had a few best of breeds before but this has come as a wonderful surprise.

“When we finally get home we’re going to celebrate with a bottle of bubbly

“He’s such a laid-back dog, we call him Smiley but we also call him Bagpuss sometimes.

“He takes everything in his stride, he’s not fazed by anything.”

Hosted by the Kennel Club, this year's Crufts marked the 126th edition of the show, which attracts dogs and owners from across the globe as well as thousands of visitors over the four days.