SCAMPER - the pet hamster of MP for Didcot and Wantage Ed Vaizey - has won an award in the Parliamentary Pet of the Year competition.

Organised by the RSPCA and MP Sir David Amess, the little rodent was a runner-up in the yearly contest.

He was beaten by Milo the lurcher, owned by Conservative MP for Castle Point Rebecca Harris, who took the top prize.

Each finalist had five minutes to make a presentation about why their pet should win before judges made the final decision on July 13.

The criteria was not based on species, breed or appearance of the animals and any staff member, MP or Peer from the Houses of Parliament were able to enter their pampered pets.

The event was about rewarding the happiest, healthiest most well cared for animals.