A SCHOOLGIRL and her pet pooch scooped fourth place at Crufts.

Abbie Williams, 11, and her four-year-old Dalmatian Martha, who was entered under the name Phadante Take a Chance, took part in the Young Kennel Club (YKC) competition, held at the NEC, Birmingham.

They entered the handling class for toy and utility dogs, winning the place against 13 other competitors.

Abbie, who goes to Burford School, said: “The competition was judged on the handler rather than the dog and I had to run and show my dog as instructed by the judge and then answer lots of questions about Martha.

“I was really excited when I was given my rosette.”