Ten-year-old Rory Hennah from Letchworth, along with his dog Rolo, won the SCAMPS junior dog handling competition in the Crossbreed and Mongrel category.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oZI4iluwd8g&feature=youtu.be

Over the last year, Rory has been learning to train his two Cockapoo’s Rolo and Rosie.

After taking lessons at the South Hatfield Dog Training Club, he started performing in shows, where his talent and passion continued to grow.

Rory’s mum Jenny told the Comet: “He is so happy with what he’s achieved.

“Rory suffered with confidence last year, and he never would have gone into the ring then.

The Comet: Rory and Rolo getting ready to compete in the SCAMPS junior handler competition. Picture: Jenny HennahRory and Rolo getting ready to compete in the SCAMPS junior handler competition. Picture: Jenny Hennah (Image: Archant)

“When he got Rosie, the puppy, he did a lot of training with her which has been great in building his confidence. It’s absolutely amazing.”

Rory competed in various dog shows for fun before entering into the Scruffts competition, where he came 2nd in the Child’s Best Friend category.

After more lessons and practise, he entered for the Supreme Crossbreed and Mongrel Pet dog Show (SCAMPS).

SCAMPS is a national show which is open to all owners. After competing in heats, which take place cross country, finalists then performed with their dogs at Top End Farm in Little Staughton.

Rory took part in the Junior handler category, where he was up against three other finalists who showed off their skills in hopes of winning the championship.

Jenny added: “Rory won his first handling competition and qualified to compete in the final last Sunday.

“He was up against some other really good junior handlers and he was so nervous standing in front of people to be judged.

“When they announced he had won we were so shocked and very proud of him.”

Gillian Clow, Head Trainer at South Hatfield Dog Training Club said: “Rory started training Rolo and Rosie earlier this year.

“He is very patient and has a very good bond with the dogs.

“He has handled them in fun class and did a ‘do as I do’ demonstration for the club at a village day.

“His handling and confidence has really progressed, and we are all very proud of him.”

The dog training club gives lessons at St Johns Youth and Community Centre in Hatfield. For enquiries call 07708 926143, or see hatfielddogclub.org.uk.