Doggy Dexter’s delight as Sam Warburton crowns him NSPCC virtual dog show winner

• Rugby legend picks top dog in charity competition to help raise funds for NSPCC Cymru’s work supporting children in Wales
• Volunteers’ virtual dog show raises £1,000 for NSPCC Cymru
• The children’s charity relies on public donations for 90% of its income

The winners of a virtual dog show in aid of the NSPCC have been announced by rugby legend Sam Warburton who had the difficult job of judging the entries.

The competition, celebrating the nation’s pooches, was launched by the charity’s fundraising volunteers to help raise funds for the NSPCC’s work supporting children and young people across Wales.

The Welsh former international rugby union player gallantly agreed to judge the winners of eight categories and decide on an overall ‘Best in Show’ in aid of the children’s charity, which offers free support services across Wales and has Childline bases in Cardiff and Prestatyn.

More than a hundred photo and video entries of beloved four-legged friends were received, with donations now totalling one thousand pounds.

Sam revealed Dexter, a French bulldog, as his top dog, taking home the coveted ‘Best in Show’ title and cup and the winner’s rosette in the video category for cleverest dog.

Sam says: “It was a first being asked to judge a virtual dog show competition, but an offer I couldn’t refuse because as well as being a fan of dogs, I’ve also seen the incredible work NSPCC Cymru workers and volunteers carry out year-round supporting children and families in Wales.

“Christmas can be a difficult time for children suffering abuse, neglect and poor mental health – and the impact of Coronavirus will have added additional strain on families and put more children at risk this year, which is why charities like the NSPCC need our support more than ever.

“There were some great entries across all of the categories and some that made me laugh when I was looking through them too, so I want to thank everyone who took the time to enter and congratulate my category winners.

“It was a close call, but the video entry of Dexter and his tricks made me smile and I think he’s a very deserving overall winner.”

Fundraising volunteers from the St Hilary NSPCC District organised the virtual dog show, sponsored by Bespoke Classics, HDCS I.T Consultancy and the Bush Inn at St Hilary, and the winners of each category win a £25 voucher and rosette.

Dexter’s owner, Scott Davies from Llanbradach, says: “The virtual dog show was certainly something a bit different during these difficult times, and it’s great to hear how well the fundraising has gone.

“It seems you can teach an old dog new tricks, even if Dexter has been a poser all his life.

“I am thrilled Dexter has been chosen as Sam’s winner and I hope his entry puts a smile on many other people’s faces as he does ours every day.”

The NSPCC relies on public donations for 90% off its income, which help fund its direct services like those offered out of the charity’s hubs in north and south Wales as well as helplines such as Childline, and they have all adapted so they can operate throughout the pandemic.

Childline has continued to provide a vital lifeline for children and young people across the country counselling them on issues around mental wellbeing, family relationships, suicidal thoughts and feelings, and concerns about the virus.

Children can call Childline on 0800 11 11 from 7.30am to midnight from Monday to Friday or 9am to midnight on weekends. Or they can get in touch via www.childline.org.uk.

 Anyone with any concerns about the welfare of a child can call the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 or visit nspcc.org.uk for advice.