Crufts 2018: Whippet wins Best in Show closely followed by gundog pointer

The Crufts coveted Best in Show award has been won by whippet Tease this year, following an incredible few days in which some 21,000 canines have competed for a string of prizes.

The Express reports that the dog emerged triumphant from the last seven in a closely-fought competition at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham.

In a surprise twist, the reserve best in show was announced before the winner - the controversial decision brought a rumble and a few boos from the Crufts crowd.

Announcing the results in reverse order, the Gundog pointer champion Kanix Chilli was announced as the reserve Best in Show. After a dramatic pause the whippet Tease owned by Yvette Short from Edinburgh was announced at Crufts 2018 Best in Show winner. The decision was met by a huge applause from crowd before an intruder stormed onto the Crufts arena and charged towards the winner.

Owner Yvette Short moved to protect her dog as the protester headed towards the coveted trophy. He was wrestled to the ground by the dog show’s staff and taken away from the arena. The crowd broke out in a chorus of boos at the intruder, who appeared to be carrying a sign was led away. Ms Short looked alarmed by the incident, which came just as she was marking her proudest moment. As the man ran towards her she grimaced, picking up the dog and holding him close to her.

Host Clare Balding told her: “Well done you for reacting so quickly, your instinct was to protect Tease.” Tease, who is only two-and-a half had previously won the Hound Group. Ms Short described the experience of winning as “incredible”.