Mother and daughter from South Yorkshire crowned UK’s best breeders at Crufts

Joan Scarll and her daughter Sue Sykes beat 35 other teams to win the ultimate breeder’s title with their team of Lhasa Apsos in front of a packed crowd at the NEC in Birmingham on Friday.

Each team comprised three or four dogs of one breed, all bred by the same breeder or breeding partnership.

Speaking after their win, Joan said: “For me, this is the best thing ever. These dogs have won 29 Challenge Certificates between them and I am very proud of that.

“Dog shows are a good hobby to get involved in. They can be a lot of fun when people make them fun. Whether we win or lose, we are always coming home with the best dogs.”

Vanessa McAlpine, Crufts Show Manager, said: “We are very pleased for Joan and Sue on their excellent achievement.

“Joan and Sue are very talented breeders who put the time and effort into developing sound breeding practices to produce healthy and happy dogs for the show ring.

“Their dogs are testament to their hard work and dedication to the breed.”

This year is the 129th year of Crufts.

Crufts - which is now in its 129th year - is being held from March 5-8 at the NEC Birmingham.

Viewers can also follow all the action and highlights on Channel 4 and More 4.

For further information and tickets visit www.crufts.org.uk.