Cheers for Charlie as owner honoured

Daisy Buckland, aged 15, and Charlie, her seven-year-old border terrier wowed the judges at the event – together, the pair won the Young Kennel Club braveheart award, while Daisy was won The Shaun McAlpine award of Young Kennel Club person of the year,

The Sutton Community Academy student has had Charlie since he was a puppy.

And she said he had helped her overcome difficulties she has faced growing up.

Daisy said: “I was shocked to win.

“Charlie has helped me through so many social barriers in the last seven years. I am now able to speak at agility classes and in some other social situations. I couldn’t do this before I had Charlie.

“I am honoured to receive such a prestigious award. I am truly blessed to be able to have my name on the trophy.

“My mum cried when I was announced and Charlie was well behaved all day and enjoyed a few treats when we got home”.

Daisy has selective mutism and Asperger’s syndrome and finds it hard to interact with adults outside of her home,

But since starting agility with Charlie, her family say they have noticed a dramatic change,

Dad Richard, 42, said: “Daisy is starting to interact with adults at her agility club, as well as starting to take part in friendly agility competitions.

“She has a new-found confidence which leaves her smiling for days.”