A TEENAGER and her prized pooch claimed a major prize at Crufts.

Lauren Goddard, 14, and her pointer named Parker came first in the Young Kennel Club Handler of the year category.

Lauren, from Haywards Heath, said: “I wasn’t expecting it at all.

“I’m used to handling terriers and it’s a lot harder to handle a bigger dog as it makes the pacing so different. It’s great coming to Crufts to see my friends, I’ve made loads of friends through handling.

“Parker is just the best, I just have such a good bond with him, he’s always in a happy mood.”

An estimated 27,000 dogs visited the NEC in Birmingham during the four-day event run by The Kennel Club, with just under 21,000 dogs from 220 breeds competing for a chance to win Best in Show.

Visitors had the chance to learn about breeds at the Discover Dogs zone, crossbreeds competed for the Scruffts crown and the Friends For Life award demonstrated the unique relationship people have with their dogs and the important role man’s best friend plays throughout people’s lives.

Five-year-old Parker’s owner, Connie Hazeltine, 22, said: “Parker was absolutely amazing.

“He shows really well for Lauren, he’s really good when he is with her.

“He and Lauren are just a bit of a dream team.

“The first time she tried with him they just really got on well together.

“They had that rapport, and they just got on with it and made it work.”