COMPETITORS travelled from around the region to take part in the Sampford Courtenay Dog Show on May 7.

Slight showers did nothing to hamper the spirit or success of the day, which was greatly enjoyed by judges and participants alike.

Judge Laurie Busby particularly enjoyed the diminutive junior handler Jason Leigh Thompson, who chatted to his dog throughout the showing event.

Laurie, from Exbourne, was judging the show for the first time and a presentation was made to show appreciation for her efforts.

Organisers expressed thanks to the many sponsors, including Courtenay Kennels, Mark Hedges Construction, Marshall Joinery and RL Taylor Transport Ltd. They also thanked the pet ranger and Colin Coleman, as well as those who supplied prizes, particularly Mole Avon and Vital Dog Foods. Organisers raised £500 from the event.

Results: Best Pedigree dog or bitch under 18 months: 1: Michael Van Heuben, Blenheim, weimeraner. 2: Margaret Dennis, Freya, cocker spaniel. 3: Becky Green, Bella, French bulldog.

Best sporting dog or bitch: 1: Rowan Van Heuben, Ossie, greyhound. 2: Lynne Bourne, Pansy, bassett. 3: Michael Van Heuben, Blenheim, weimeraner.

Best non-sporting dog or bitch: 1: Lisa Jonet, Otis, a boxer. 2: David Wright, Charlie, border collie. 3: Sam Lloyd, Marmite, wre-haired daschund.

Open category for pedigree dogs: 1: Kerry Stoneman, Isaac, labrador. 2: Carol Bissett, Kizzi, Rhodesian ridgeback. 3: Sharon Mew, Snoopdog, Boston terrier.

Best condition: 1: Jame Smith, Spyda, whippet. 2: Marc Coakley, Holly, akita. 3: Michelle Gillies, Keito, British inuit.

Junior Handler (up to 14 years): 1: Jason Leigh Thompson, Ruby, Yorkshire terrier. 2: Emily Murray, Olly, beagle cross. 3: Sophie Adams, Mousey, cocker spaniel.

Best rescue: 1: Emily Burgoyne, Jody, labrador cross. 2: Marc Coakley. Holly, akita.

Best veteran: 1: Mrs Smith, George, Lakeland terrier. 2: Matilda, Winnie, labrador cross. 3: Catherine, Dip, border collie.

Dog with the waggiest tail: 1: Rachel, Murphy, cocker spaniel. 2: Matilda, Winnie, labrador cross. 3: Julie Brook, Caden, dalmatian.

Dog most like its owner: 1: Stephen, Lexi, rottweiler cross. 2: Rachel, Murphy, cocker spaniel. 3: Olivery, Minnie, golden retriever.

Dog the judge would most like to take home: 1st: Margaret Dennis, Freya, cocker spaniel. 2nd: Matilda, Jodie, labrador cross. 3rd: Chloe Maddiford, Tizzy, Jack Russell terrier.