East Lancashire dogs going for glory at Crufts (From Lancashire Telegraph)

East Lancashire dogs going for glory at Crufts

10:33am Friday 12th March 2010 in

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DOZENS of dogs from across East Lancashire are hoping to take Crufts by storm this year.

More than 28,0000 pooches are expected to take part in the historic four-day show, the biggest in the world, which runs until Sunday at Birmingham’s NEC.

Alongside the show dog classes will be obedience competitions as well as demonstrations so that people can find out more about different breeds and looking after them.

Amongst those taking part are Wendy Johnson, of Carter Street, Burnley and her Italian Spinone Gracie Mae.

They will be representing the British pet charity Blue Cross to educate people about pet safety and will be on hand to answer questions from those attending the show.

She will be joined by friends from Bacup-based Rossendale Dog training Club, where she is the main trainer, who are competing in a variety of different classes.

Wendy said: “We are all really excited about the event because we are representing the region on different levels.

“I will be working on the charity stand helping people learn more about dog saftey with children and other dogs.

“I have been with Rossendale Dog Training Club for five years and this is my third time at Crufts and I’m really looking forward to it.”

Also taking part from the club will be Georgina Mawdsley and her labrador Tara, Katie Metcalf with her cocker spaniel Bella, and Vicky Watts with her labrador Evie.

They are hoping to impress during the bronze level of the Good Citizens training scheme.

Before starting obedience work eight weeks ago Georgina, Vicky and Katie had no previous dog training experience but are now hoping to demonstrate their new found skills Chairman of the Rossendale Dog Training Club Dave East said: “We are so proud of the members who are heading down to Crufts.

“It’s great to be able to represent Lancashire in this event being the only club from the region to participate in the bronze level.

“They really have done Rossendale and East Lancashire proud and we are all looking forward to the competition.”

Also competing will be Geoff Evans, of Roman Road, Blackburn, who has entered his black-haired Bouvier des Flandres dog called Vize.

Crufts will be broadcast on More 4 from every night until Sunday from 7.30pm to 9pm.