A show-stopping canine has hit the jackpot and been named top Essex dog.

But Kyu, a Japanese Shiba Inu, is no stranger to success.

Proud - Jean Cooper and Kyu Picture: ROB BROWNE

He may only be three years old, but the Basildon pooch has already notched up a string of trophies.

His latest accolade comes after he beat champions from every other dog club in the county in the yearly Top Essex Dog contest, where he represented the Wickford and Basildon Canine Society.

However, Kyu, whose show name is Bormund Chilli Pepper, has also won several championship shows across the UK, including shows in Bournemouth and Windsor, and for the last three years he has been placed in Crufts.

His proud owner Jean Cooper, of Great Gregorie, Lee Chapel South in Basildon, said: "I am very proud of him. He is a lovely dog and so beautiful."

Published Monday, April 14, 2003

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