A NORTH-EAST dog has seen off the competition to win Best in Show at Crufts.

The 125th anniversary of Crufts has ended on a high, with an exciting Best in Show final seeing Devon (Ch Burneze Geordie Girl), a West Highland White Terrier, from Bishop Auckland, took the coveted title in the 125th Crufts championship.

In a packed arena, Devon, who is two years old in July and Marie Burns, a Kennel Club Assured Breeder, were cheered on as they were chosen by top judge, Derek Smith and awarded the prestigious Crufts Best in Show title by Clare Balding.

Almost 22,000 pedigree dogs from around the world competed at the Birmingham NEC over four days for just seven places in the Crufts 2016 Best in Show final.

The other six finalists were, Jen the German Spitz Klein, Eric the Pekingese, Zony the Border Collie, James the Gordon Setter, Hazel the Whippet and Hector the Bouvier Des Flandres.

Devon’s, owner, Marie said of her win: “I can’t believe it, it was amazing. She is a typical terrier, a bit of a tomboy, very independent and fun to be around.

"I’m so thankful to everyone who has helped us get there.

"I can’t believe it she’s the first West Highland Terrier to win in more than 20 years."

The Northern Echo:

Devon the West Highland Terrier is named Best in Show at Crufts 2016 at the NEC, Birmingham

The Reserve Best in Show award was won by Hazel, the Whippet, owned by Charlie Donaldson from Middlebie, Dumfrieshire.

Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club Secretary, said: “This has been a fantastic year and a wonderful final, and it’s clear to see why, for 125 years, Crufts has been one of the major British events.

“Congratulations to Devon who helped end this year’s competition on a high note, taking the prestigious Best in Show award with her owner, Marie Burns.

“This year has been such a great show, with dogs and their handlers showing their fantastic relationship across a range of dog sports and competitions.”