A ST Albans woman is celebrating after the father of her pet Shih Tzu won best of breed today (Friday) at Crufts.

Herts Advertiser: St Albans pet Poppy, daughter of Crufts best of breed winner, with her mum GinnySt Albans pet Poppy, daughter of Crufts best of breed winner, with her mum Ginny (Image: Archant)

Marianne Wastell, attending the internationally renowned event billed as the biggest and best celebration of dogs in the world, said she was thrilled after seeing her dog’s father, Finlay, win his category.

Finlay, whose pedigree name is Cedarhythe Dirty Dancin (sic) and lives in Northampton, is the father of Marianne’s eight-month-old pet, Poppy and won the best of his breed.

She said: “I saw him in the show, and it was very exciting and emotional. You can see how hard they have to work to win.

“I’m really pleased for his owners as they have been breeding dogs for over 30 years.”

Finlay will be shown on TV tonight, competing in the best in group final on More 4, between 6.30–9pm.

Crufts also features on Channel 4 on Sunday, March 10, between 5.30–8pm.

Kennel Club entry figures for Crufts showed that more than 25,000 dogs were expected at the massive event, held at the NEC in Birmingham from March 7-10.

Crufts 2013 attracted more than 2,000 dogs from overseas for the first time.