Buddy is top of the pups for owner Joel

After appearing at this year’s Crufts, a ‘cheeky’ canine has been crowned the face of St Nicholas Hospice Care’s Paws in the Park.

Buddy, a 15-month-old Parson Russell, fought off competition from 683 other dogs and was chosen by readers of this newspaper’s sister title, the Bury Free Press.

Owners Sally Newstead and her eight-year-old son Joel, who live in Hopton, were delighted.

Sally said: “Buddy and Joel just bonded from day one. Joel likes taking Buddy for a walk and looking after him and he’s taken him to training classes. But he’s a bit cheeky and sneaky. If there’s ever a buffet, that’s it.

“We’ve done some shows. Buddy did actually go to Crufts – he won fourth in breed this year.

“He’s a handsome little chap. And Joel has taken him to some fun shows. Our local fete has a dog show and we take all the dogs there.

“It’s great for children to have that bond, for them to care for something.

“I like the way that Joel looks after dogs. I think it’s nice for them – he really is just like a buddy.”

Paws in the Park was due to be held at Nowton Park, in Bury St Edmunds, on May 17, but – like many events up and down the country – has been postponed due to coronavirus.

The hospice has decided to pull all fundraising events until May 31 and has pledged to regularly review the situation.

Michael Clark, head of fundraising, said: “Our main priority is the wellbeing and safety of our patients, supporters, staff, volunteers and the wider community, and we do not want to put anyone at unnecessary risk.”