Rebecca was delighted to take part in Westminster Dog of the Year earlier this month.

Rebecca entered with her 9-year-old Lola a Saluki she adopted from local rescue in Daws Health- Acres Way. Despite her hard start in life, Lola is a gentle giant who is a playful and positive pup.

Westminster Dog of the Year celebrates the bond between dogs and their owners and gives MPs the opportunity to showcase their four-legged friends, celebrate the unique roles dogs play in society and raise awareness for key canine issues. Organised jointly by Dogs Trust and The Kennel Club, Westminster Dog of the Year has been running since 1992.

This year the event focused on responsible dog ownership, and how, through training, socialisation, and responsible owner behaviour, we can help dogs to lead happy and healthy lives. Westminster Dog of the Year is open to all dog loving MPs and their four-legged friends of all ages, breeds, shapes, and sizes – pedigree and crossbreed alike, to compete for the coveted title.

Unfortunately, Lola was not crowned top dog, the award was instead handed to TJ, a cockapoo owned by Mims Davies, Conservative MP for Mid-Sussex. She impressed the judges with her paw-sitively loveable character and loyalty. Despite Lola missing out on the top prize, she thoroughly enjoyed the friendly com-pet-tion and is already looking forward to claiming next years award.

Rebecca said: ‘I thoroughly enjoyed today's event and thanks all those who played a role in organising it. I am so proud of Lola and all the dogs who behaved brilliantly today. Congratulations to the winners and runners-up!’