SPECTATORS at the biggest event in the canine calendar could have been forgiven for thinking Darwen had gone to the dogs.

For representatives from the town made sure their presence was felt at the popular Crufts show held in London's Earl Court. Mike and Sally Rich of Kelvin Street were delighted when judges awarded their Anatolian Karabash Turkish Shepherd, Melissa, the prestigious best of breed title.

Mr Rich said: "We had a wonderful day. There are only about 500 of her breed in the country and she is a fantastic dog. She really did us proud."

The couple and four-year-old Melissa, whose show name is Karabiber Melis, will be featured on television receiving the award this weekend.

Fellow Darwener Jack Bennett of Sough Road flew the flag for the town by judging the toy dog section.

Mr Bennett, who has made five appearances at Crufts, said: "It seems the town was well represented this year, especially since the chairman of the event Mark Hutchins was educated at Darwen Grammar School!" he added.

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