A MISCHIEVOUS four-year-old dog from Barnoldswick won the heart of Royle Family star Ricky Tomlinson during the finals of an alternative Crufts competition.

Troubadour, who lives in North Street, was entered in to the Pal Scruffts competition by owners Cherrill and Stuart Dillon and his scruffy but lovable look earned him second place in his first-ever competition.

Troubie, a sheep dog-spaniel cross, was runner-up in the Crossbreed Dog The Judge Would Most Like To Take Home category at Earls Court, London, co-judged by the TV actor.

Cherrill said: "It was all just a bit of fun. All the owners were grooming their dogs but we left Troubadour as he was because it was supposed to be for scruffy dogs.

"He's so mischievous and boisterous and lively. Last week I made some meatballs and left them on the cooker overnight. When I got up Troubie had dragged the dish off and it had smashed and he had eaten the meatballs. But he had also knocked the gas on and the house was full of gas. He's crazy.

"We treated the whole competition as a laugh but we thought he was the nicest looking dog there. People have asked if we will enter him in any other competitions but because it's fun and charity I think you have to give other dogs a chance as well.

"It was great that it was judged by Ricky Tomlinson because I real like him. He kept looking at Troubadour and I think he really liked him but the other judge was looking at the dog that won."

Stuart said: "Troubadour gets up to plenty of mischief. He once ate three quarters of a Christmas cake fresh from the oven and a joint of beef one Sunday when we had guests for tea. He is a fantastic dog, full of character, very affectionate and loving.

"We are very, very proud of Troubadour winning this award."

The competition was organised in association with The Kennel Club and raised £8,000 for the National Canine Defence League.