Lola proves she’s top dogat Scruffts

Lola was one of more than 21,500 happy, healthy dogs at the NEC in Birmingham for the world’s biggest dog show, presented by the Kennel Club, and put her best paw forward to claim a prestigious award in the Scruffts Family Crossbreed of the Year category.

Owner Amy Graham (15), has epilepsy and finds it easier to sleep with the reassuring presence of Lola in her bedroom at night.

Judges searching for the nation’s favourite crossbreed dog had already awarded Lola the winner of the Child’s Best Friend category, and the pair were narrowly pipped to the overall title by Wylie and Sarah Singleton from Yeovil.

Amy and her family are unsure how old Lola is or what breed she falls into, as she was found wandering the streets several years ago.

“I was amazed when she won, I was completely shocked,” said Amy, a Culleybackey College pupil.

Amy added: “I didn’t think it would be her that would win. I was crying, I was in disbelief.

“I’m epileptic and she will lie in my room at night and let my mum and dad know if I have a fit. I just love her.

“She’s so friendly, when I’m upset I just see her face and feel so much better – I think that’s why won it.

“She keeps me company and makes me feel more comfortable and at home when I’m sleeping because I used to be terrified of going to bed but now I have Lola, I know I’m safe.”