Sylvia Liffen and her dog Benjamin took home a coveted prize at Crufts on Saturday.

The pug beat thousands of other dogs to win a very highly commended certificate and a bond certificate in the good citizen’s obedience category.

The show took place at the weekend and on Saturday, March 8, Benjamin made his first appearance at the famous dog show.

Mrs Liffen said it was a hard job to keep him focused because of the PA system.

She said: “The tannoy system was very loud and it scared Benjamin a little, but he recovered for the next round.”

Mrs Liffen, 76, from Teddington, entered Benjamin in the toy puppy section for his debut showing, and both were delighted with the results.

She said: “The standard was very high at the show and the other dogs were beautiful.

“I was surprised with Benjamin, he did very well and I am delighted with this win.”

Mrs Liffen is hoping to enter Benjamin and her other pug Jamie in the same event next year. A total of 22,000 dogs were entered into the competition, which proved as popular as ever.

The annual event sees pooches compete in numerous events designed to test their agility, obedience and aesthetics.

Linda Owen went to the show for the first time with her lhasa apso, Maisie, who unfortunately did not pick up any prizes.

Her owner said: “Maisie didn’t come anywhere but she did really well. We both really enjoyed it and will be back next year.

“You win some, you lose some.”