Sir David Amess' dog wins Westminster Dog Of The Year
It's a heartfelt tribute to the MP for Southend West.
Last updated 28th Oct 2021
Sir David Amess' dog Vivienne has won the Westminster Dog of the Year award.
The three-year-old French Bulldog was accompanied at the competition by MPs Andrew Rosindell and Mark Francois.
Vivienne beat around 23 finalists to the top spot at today's event that was held in the grounds of Westminster, with Jeremey Hunt's dog Poppy also among the finalists.
Sir David Amess was a renowned animal lover prior to his death.
When asked what his favourite thing about his dog was, Sir Amess said: "Every time I walk into the room Vivienne throws herself at me, lies on their back with her legs in the air to be tickled. But before that she always brings a toy so she is of a generous, giving nature."
The competition, which can only be entered by members of parliament and their dogs, aims to promote responsible dog ownership.
It's also held to showcase the important work carried out by Government on dog-related issues.
All members of parliament are able to enter the event regardless of 'pawlitical' stance, with contestants encouraged to put politics to one side for the morning.
Owen Sharp, Chief Executive of Dogs Trust, said: "The Westminster Dog of the Year competition is so much more than a canine beauty pageant.
"The competition is strictly apolitical; judges will be looking for the dogs' good deeds and devotion to their owner rather than policies or opinions.
"It is a fun filled day out with an important message at its core – helping to promote dog welfare issues and encourage responsible ownership.”