by Graham Tutthill

gtutthill@thekmgroup.co.uk

Dover and Deal MP Charlie Elphicke's pet dog Star has won a competition at Westminster.

They were among the MPs and their dogs battling it out for the coveted title of Westminster Dog Of The Year 2012 today.

The four-year-old Norfolk terrier competed against retrievers, greyhounds and labradors – as well as many other varieties – at Victoria Tower Gardens, Westminster, in a bid to be crowned top dog.

"We only entered it for fun, I am amazed that we won," said Mr Elphicke.

The competition is organised jointly by the Dogs Trust and the Kennel Club and encourages an open dialogue on important dog welfare issues.