A POOCH from St Albans has proved every dog does have its day after walking away with a top prize at Crufts.

Three-year-old bearded collie Hattie accompanied by her owner Julie Turner clinched the prestigious title of best in breed at the world famous dog show dfs Crufts, held at Birmingham’s NEC last weekend.

Owner Julie Turner, 55, showed nerves of steel with Hattie beating off competition from over 300 other entries to scoop the coveted prize before going on to compete for best in group.

And Mrs Turner, of Woodland Drive, was left beaming with pride at her and Hattie’s performance on the 120th anniversary of Crufts where 21,500 healthy, happy dogs enjoyed their spot in the limelight this year.

“I’m still so excited about winning – it’s quite surreal,” said Mrs Turner, who works as an administrator at Welspray Accident and Repair Centre in Welwyn Garden City.

“Hattie is on a roll at the moment – she’s on really good form and we’re delighted. Even so, I never expected to win, this is a brilliant achievement. She’s such a character too, a real cheeky monkey, and she’s earned herself a few treats.”