A Year 12 student from the Priory School had a double reason to celebrate after successfully exhibiting her two dogs at this year’s Crufts.

Lexi Birks took her Finnish Lapphund’s Kiittaa and Dotsie to the annual prestigious canine competition with Kiittaa placed third in her class and Dotsie coming first in hers.

Lexi’s mum Nicky Birks, of Grays Lane in Hitchin, said: “It was lovely. I’m so very proud of her. Lexi got a bit emotional with the success.

“It was also nice to see all the other owners and breeders take her under their wing, look after her and support her as she’s one of the youngest owners at Crufts. The atmosphere was great too, even if it was a little noisy with all the dogs barking.

“Lexi has been great – she’s done everything herself – all I do is just drive her to the events!”

Priory School’s assistant headteacher Zoe Armitage said: “It’s great both of Lexi’s dogs have qualified for Crufts next year, and we hope for further success for Lexi and her beautiful dogs.”

Lexi added: “I was speechless.”