A DOG trainer from Sussex has been named the accredited instructor of the year at Crufts. 

Judy Hempstead from Heathfield has been awarded The Kennel Club Accredited Instructor of the Year award, as part of the ceremony which took place at Crufts, on Saturday.

The awards recognise dog trainers who have made a positive difference to the lives of owners and their dogs. 

Judy was nominated by family, friends and clients, in recognition of her work in both obedience with gundogs, and her ability to “foster a connection between dogs and their owners, which leads to a fun and engaging environment”.  

She is accredited in Working Gundogs, and also has an understanding of a number of canine disciplines, across conformation, agility, hoopers, rally and canicross. 

Judy established the Working Minority Retriever Club to support owners of minority breeds through advice and training, and it is this commitment to working dog breeds that has led her to be seen as a mentor, particularly for young handlers.  

This was particularly true during lockdown, where Judy employed a variety of methods to keep in touch with trainees, through online training, demonstrations and challenges for people to work on at home. 

Following the easing of restrictions, Judy organised smaller groups to train on open ground, staggering her classes to ensure a Covid-safe working environment.  

In addition to the award, Judy was also presented with a £500 donation from The Kennel Club Educational Trust in order to further her involvement with dogs.  

Speaking about winning her award, Judy said: “I’m very excited about having been awarded instructor of the year. 

“It has been a difficult time trying to get training established during Covid, but it is nice to be rewarded as I have tried different methods to keep things going through the pandemic. 

“I am really overwhelmed! Being awarded and recognised for all I have achieved over this period of time was very emotional.” 

The Kennel Club Accredited Instructor scheme recognises and promotes experienced dog training instructors who are committed to using dog training methods which are based on the principles of kindness, fairness and the good welfare of dogs.