A four-year-old boy is the youngest winner of a Crufts award.

Romford Recorder: Wolfey and Nicholas SkidmoreWolfey and Nicholas Skidmore (Image: Archant)

Nicholas Skidmore, from Brentwood, was nominated for the Shaun McAlpine Outstanding Young Person Award, a prestigious award from the Young Kennel Club, following the death of his dog Wolfey.

And on Sunday the animal lover won the award for his age group – under six – at the competition for recognition of the help he gave Wolfey when he was ill.

The club said it was overwhelmed with nominations for the award, which usually recognises young people aged between six and 24 who are chosen for their passion and dedication in working with dogs. They opened it up for younger children for the first time to recognise Nicholas.

Crufts organisers said he was praised because he would look after Wolfey, make sure he was happy, bring him toys and help with grooming.

His mum Joanna Skidmore said: “We are really proud of Nicholas for winning the award and for how well he did on the day. He really enjoyed it.”