Dog handler secures double prize at Crufts

5 hours ago

Daniel SextonSouth East

News image — Springford went to the event in Birmingham not expecting to win

Rebecca Brewer A woman in a red top wearing black leggings sits next to a brown, white and black dog and a trophy. She is holding a certificate. — Springford went to the event in Birmingham not expecting to win

A dog handler has scooped two prizes at Crufts after winning the Royal Kennel Club Agility Championships.

Handler Shannon Springford, from Swanley in Kent, secured the double victory, winning two separate categories with two different dogs.

Springford won the Royal Kennel Club Agility Championships for small dogs, with Shetland Sheepdog Halloumi, and the Royal Kennel Club Agility Championships for large dogs with Banter, a Border Collie.

Speaking to BBC Radio Kent, she said: "It was such an experience to be surrounded by so many people and dogs, and a great honour."

Crufts is organised by the Royal Kennel Club and took place in Birmingham between Thursday and Sunday.

Despite the double success, Springford said she was initially going simply "to have a lovely time" but winning two trophies was something she "dreamed of".

Sam Springford Three ladies in red tops, with black and white dogs either side under the arms of two women. They are in front of a green and white banner, with another lady in a blue blazer holding a trophy on the left and a woman in a black top behind them. — Handler Shannon Springford, from Swanley in Kent, (third from left, front row) secured a double victory at the show

Springford said: "We have try-outs coming up for Great Britain, then my dogs can have a well-earned rest."

Following the competition, she said the dogs were happy to be home and "looking forward to going on a long walk on the beach".

A Clumber spaniel named Bruin was crowned best in show at Crufts 2026, fending off competition from close to 19,000 competitors.

Jannine Edgar, chief executive of the Royal Kennel Club, said: "Reaching the final of the Royal Kennel Club Agility Championships is an achievement in itself, and every competitor should be proud of the dedication and perseverance that brought them here.

"We wish them all the best in their upcoming competitions."

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