'Dog in a million' from Devon and owner crowned winners at Crufts

Nora, a five-year-old Border Collie, and her owner Lorna Syrett from East Budleigh, Devon, won the heelwork to music freestyle final at the world's greatest dog show, Crufts, on Friday 8 March.

Each year Crufts hosts the finals of both heelwork to music and the freestyle competitions. All advanced level dogs and handlers can qualify for Crufts by entering one or more of a series of qualifying events held throughout the previous year.

The participants devised routines of up to four minutes, set to music, and performed them with their dog in the Resorts World Arena at the NEC, Birmingham. 

Nora has played a particularly special role in Lorna's life after Lorna was diagnosed with an aggressive form of arthritis at 27. Lorna was in constant pain but Nora was always there for her - helping her through the pain and giving her a reason to carry on.

Delighted owner Lorna said of her win: "I don't think winning has sunk in yet, and to be honest it might take a few weeks until it does! I went out in the ring just wanting to have fun with Nora and show everyone how amazing I know she is. To win was the last thing on my mind!

"Everyone that was in the final had worked so hard to be there and this showed with how wonderfully everyone performed with their dogs. Heelwork to music is very much a sport built on relationships with our dogs first and foremost and you could tell that from watching everyone in the final this year. Nora loves being in the big Crufts ring and really likes to show off for the crowd. Nora is not only my best friend but a dog in a million for me!"

Helen Kerfoot, Crufts Show Manager, commented: "Congratulations to Lorna and Nora for their wonderful performance in the arena at Crufts. Heelwork to music is a challenging activity that demands a lot of time, dedication and skill. The pair perfectly demonstrated the patience and close bond needed from both the dog and the handler, as well as being a great example of what can be achieved.

"Lorna and Nora are an inspiration for any dog owners out there who are interested in taking part in this fun and rewarding activity." 

For more information on heelwork to music, please visit thekennelclub.org.uk/htm

Crufts takes place from 7 - 10 March 2024 at the NEC, Birmingham. For more information and results from the show, visit crufts.org.uk.