Crufts will welcome Buster, the English Springer Spaniel who is the latest winner of the Dickin Medal, the highest award for animals serving the British and Commonwealth forces in war.

Buster, pictured here with Endal, received the award in December in recognition of him uncovering a hidden stash of weapons and explosives last April, destined for use against the British forces in Iraq. Buster will be at Crufts on the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and their Families’ Association (SSAFA Forces Help) stand - one of Crufts human benefiting charities - and will be present at the launch with his handler Sergeant Danny Morgan.

Accompanying Buster will be representations from the four new breeds at Crufts this year, which include - the first Pyrenean Mastiff in this country, Eurasiers, Azawakhs and three Portuguese Podengo puppies with some accompanying adult Portuguese Podengos!