Dorothy Barnes, 67, from Norwich, qualified for Crufts after entering her first competition with her cocker spaniel puppy, Riley.

Ms Barnes thinks Riley has been a big help to her health (Image: Dorothy Barnes)

Ms Barnes, a grandmother of seven, said Riley has transformed her life.

"All my social life is at work.

"My children are all grown up and I've got grandchildren but they’re at school and they're always doing something.

She got Riley the spaniel puppy last year (Image: Dorothy Barnes)

"I see them quite a lot but I just got a bit panicky and thought whatever am I going to do?" said Ms Barnes.

"He’s great company, because I was widowed 25 years ago, and so I didn't have anyone to enjoy my retirement with.

"He’s just been a joy in my life and he's helped my health.

"I went to the doctors recently for a check-up and they served gold."

Soon after bringing Riley home, Ms Barnes began taking him to ring craft classes and quickly developed a passion for the world of dog showing.

Riley did well at his first ever competition (Image: Dorothy Barnes)

Within just two months, she entered their first show, a championship event, where Riley placed third, earning them a spot at Crufts.

Ms Barnes said: "I go to several training clubs, and they were saying, you know, when are you going to book a show, so I booked Richmond, which is a championship show.

The pair practising for the big event (Image: Dorothy Barnes)

"They all looked at me and said, 'Are you mad?

"You've not had him too long,' but I just thought I might as well, it's experience.

"I was absolutely terrified but we went and he gained his first show, and then got third overall a place at Crufts."

The pair will take to the green carpet on Sunday, March 8 at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham.

© Norwich Evening News