There will be one certain winner at the famous Crufts dog show - and she has got two legs.Schoolgirl Beth Poulter from Sheringham is one of just three young people picking up awards in memory of a 22-year-old dog handler killed in a road crash just two weeks after his birthday.

THERE will be a certain winner at the world-famous Crufts dog show - and she has two legs.

Schoolgirl Beth Poulter, from Sheringham, is one of just three young people picking up awards in memory of a 22-year-old dog handler killed in a road crash just two weeks after his

birthday.

Beth won the national under-12 category in the Shane McAlpine awards after impressing judges with her drive to find a career involved in dogs, and to succeed in competitive dog agility at a high level.

She and Shetland sheepdog Simba are already competing against adult handlers, after tuition at Wroxham Dog Agility Club - where mum Alison and sister Elsa, 13, also enjoy the hobby.

All three, who have five dogs at their Avenue South home in Sheringham, take their skills to events across the region once a month.

Beth, a pupil at the local high school, is a member of the Young Kennel Club, which organises the competition aimed at encouraging six to 24-year-olds to get more involved with dog activities.

She will collect her medal from Shane's parents Ed and Cindy, who lost their son, a Great Dane handler, in 1984. Beth will vie against other winners Linzi Follet, 19, and Rebecca Ashworth, 17, for an overall award which is based on personal and social development. Linzi is brushing up on her gundog training, while Rebecca is improving her dog photography.

Beth said: "I did not think I would win. I used to be quiet, but since getting Simba two years ago I have gained confidence."

Information about the awards and club is available from www.ykc.org.uk or by calling 020 7518 1030.