Paws in the Park: 'Cheeky' Buddy is your poster pooch winner

After appearing at this year’s Crufts, ‘cheeky’ canine Buddy has been crowned the winner of our post pooch competition.

The 15-month-old Parson Russell fought off tough competition from 683 other dogs to become the face of St Nicholas Hospice Care’s Paws in the Park.

Bury Free Press readers chose Buddy from 10 finalists.

However, Paws in the Park, which was due to be held on May 17 at Nowton Park, has been postponed until further notice due to coronavirus.

Buddy’s owners are Sally Newstead and her son Joel, who live in Hopton, near Diss. He belongs mainly to eight-year-old Joel.

Sally said: “It’s fantastic, we’re so excited for our little Buddy to be the face of Paws in the Park.

“He and Joel just bonded from day one. Joel likes taking Buddy for a walk and looking after him and he’s taken him to training classes. But he’s a bit cheeky and sneaky. If there’s ever a buffet, that’s it.

“We’ve done some shows. Buddy did actually go to Crufts -– he had fourth in breed this year.

“He’s a handsome little chap. And Joel has taken him to some fun shows. Our local fete has a dog show and we take all the dogs there.

“To me, it’s just great for children to have that bond, for them to care for something.

“I just like the way that Joel looks after dogs, I think it’s nice for them, he really is just like a buddy.”

Poster Pooch Votes 2020

Micah - 26

Buddy- 31

Ivy - 2

Dexter - 0

Benji- 17

Louis- 0

Derek- 17

Alfie - 24

Zeus - 12

Jill - 8

Coronavirus

The hospice has decided, with immediate effect, to postpone fund-raising events that gather large groups and results in contact with vulnerable people. These measures will be in place until May 31 and regularly reviewed.

Michael Clark, head of fund-raising, said: “The hospice’s main priority is the wellbeing and safety of our patients, supporters, staff, volunteers and the wider community, and we do not want to put anyone at unnecessary risk.

“We wish the community well through this difficult time.”

Visit www.stnicholashospice.org.uk/coronavirus