A YOUNG dog trainer from Brentford has been rewarded for her "remarkable achievements" at this year's Crufts.

Chelsea Hickford, 18, was the recipient of the Shaun McAlpine Outstanding Young Person Over 18 Years award as well as being the overall winner of the competition.

The accolade was presented by the Young Kennel Club and acknowledges excellence through involvement with dogs.

Miss Hickford won the award after being involved with dogs all her life. She developed a passion for agility with her dogs after having serious health issues when she was younger, since then she has raised money for local charities through her work with dogs. She is a trainer at the Essex Flyers Agility Club as well as helping at YKC events.

Kennel Club spokesman Caroline Kisko said: "Congratulations to Chelsea on winning this award, a real landmark for young dog lovers. Her dedication to dogs and philanthropic nature make her a very special young woman."