Along with his dog, Avatar, young Newtonian Ashley Sutton wowed the crowds at Crufts last week with a prize winning performance. Although he has only been handling dogs since October 2017, judges at the world-renowned competition, commented on Ashley’s calm nature and praised the way he handled his puppy.

With poise and presence, the pair were rewarded with an amazing second place in the Junior Handler Class.

Such is this young handler’s confidence with dogs, he even stepped in to save the day when a family friend qualified with two dogs in the same category.

Unable to lead them both, Ashley (quite literally) took the lead and made his way into the ring at Crufts with a dog he had never handled before.

His family, friends and all at Stephenson Way Academy are incredibly proud of this Year 6 pupil’s achievements and can’t wait to see what the future holds for Ashley and his furry friend.