Canine fans gathered at the annual Crufts competition to see a Preston pooch scoop an award.

Eric, a Bichon Frise, took it in his stride, beating off 21,000 dogs to reach the final.

He won the toy group, for smaller dogs. This put him through to the best in show event.

Eric’s owner, Michael Coad, from Longton, was shocked by the triumph.

He said: “To win is always a surprise, because you never really know what’s going to happen.

“All you can do is make sure your dog looks the best and is shown off well.”

Eric, whose competition name is Bring Me Sunshine, was one of only seven pooches in the final. It was won by a Flatcoated Retriever called Jet.

Despite losing out on top prize though, Mr Coad was delighted with the performance.

“It’s so much to take in really, and I just take it one step at a time. Obviously you still hope you win,” he said.

The contest took place over four days at Birmingham’s NEC arena. It was the dog show’s 120th anniversary.

“This year has been a great final and we wish Eric the best for his future shows,” said Kennel Club director Caroline Kisko.