Four-year-old Joseph has certainly proved the truth in the old saying every dog has his day, after scooping a top accolade at Crufts.

Joseph, a Miniature Long-haired Dachshund from Norwich, fought off competition from about 180 other dogs to be crowned the winner of the prestigious best of breed award at the world-famous dog show that was held in the West Midlands and organised by the Kennel Club.

His proud owner, 50-year-old Roy Wood from Drayton Road, said: 'I was really pleased. Crufts is a nice show to win at.'

Mr Wood, who works in aviation ground support at Norwich International Airport, added: 'I really never expected to do well here because Crufts is such a big show, so it is a wonderful surprise.

'It's difficult to do well in your class at Crufts so to come out of that and then get to compete with the rest of the classes and win is great.

'It is a good fun time here and normally it's great just to compete but when you win as well, you can't complain at all.'

Mr Wood said in 2009 Joseph was the Top Dachshund All Coats, and in the same year he was the second top winning hound in the country.

Mr Wood, who also has four other dogs, said Joseph's win at Crufts on Sunday included Joseph's 14th Challenge Certificate.

About Joseph, he said: 'He's a nice dog, a very laid-back, easy-going dog who takes it all in his stride.'

Other dogs from Norfolk to enjoy success at Crufts this year included Mildrid, a three-year-old Smooth-Haired Dachshund who is owned by Dereham office worker Marilyn Norton.

Mildred fought off competition from more than 60 other dogs to win best in breed.

Upwell fitness instructor Sue Smith also scooped the junior warrant award with two-year-old Samoyed, Dan.

She said: 'It is unbelievably exciting to win an award at Crufts, especially one as good as this one.

'It's so fun I want to scream. I was very nervous out there. Even after all these years I have still got nerves because Crufts is the important one of the year.'

• Has your pet been awarded a special award recently? Call reporter Emma Knights on 01603 772428 or email emma.knights@archant.co.uk