TOP dogs with more personality than pedigree took part in a fun alternative to the world famous Crufts Dog Show.

The Bolton heat of the Chappie Scruffts Dog of the Year novelty dog show was held at Leverhulme Park, in Darcy Lever.

The competition, organised in conjunction with the RSPCA, attracted 440 entries from all over the borough and further afield - backed by a large crowd of supporters.

And it boasted alternative categories to the top championship such as "the dog with the waggiest tail," and "the dog which most likes its tummy tickled".

Pedigree dogs and non-pedigrees competed for the honours in the 12 classes and all those who took part in the fun event received a Chappie dog food goody bag courtesy of sponsors Pedigree Petfoods. There were also a host of local sponsors for the event.

The only serious category on the day was the Scruffts Dog of the Year, judged by Blackburn FC player Gary Flitcroft.

The winner in the Bolton heat was Lucy, a two and a half-year-old Irish Wolfhound and Alastian cross. She will go on to the grand final at the gala day at RSPCA Millbrook Animal Centre, near Guildford, Surrey, on Sunday, September 7.

Proud owner Ian Pye, of Violet Avenue, Farnworth, said it was first time lucky for Lucy because she had never entered a dog show before.

He added: "We had a great day. We're really looking forward to the grand final in September."

Area organiser Kathy Kay, from the RSPCA, described the event as a great success and a lot of fun.

She said: "We were amazed with the response on the day with 250 dogs taking part.

"It was great for the RSPCA too - we raised £900."

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