A SMALL shower before the dog show didn’t put competitors off at this year’s show.

It was estimated that more than 350 people entered their canine companions in the various classes with the hopes of winning a prize.

Dog secretary Tony Madge was overwhelmed by the support the dog show had received.

He said: “The support has been amazing and we have had very generous sponsorship as well. The weather is looking fine, thank god, and we have a fantastic judge — Sue Baker from Albaston — who I am sure will do a splendid job.”

After the show he said: “A great day with over 350 entries. Plenty of fun and many happy dogs with owners sitting around the ring cheering and clapping for everyone. One of the best shows to date!”

Someone who is better known in the young handler’s cattle ring, Matthew Rowland, of North Petherwin, swapped his cattle halter for a dog lead and took part in the puppy class.

Matthew and his 11-month-old working cocker spaniel ‘Evie’ gave an excellent performance and were rewarded with the Mrs Edith Madge Memorial Cup for Best Puppy.

Tony said this cup was very sentimental to him as it was presented in memory of his mother, who had originally bought the cup for £2.

He said: “My mother always had an eye for a bargain. It is very sentimental to me so it is great to see a nice young lad winning it.”

Matthew was pleased to have won a trophy with a puppy he had trained himself.

He said: “I trained her myself, she is a bit excitable but was well behaved in the ring. I like showing my dog as I get to meet new people who have dogs and it also means she gets used to other dogs.”

As well as a trophy Matthew received a rosette and a bag of dog food.