POPPY the dog has finally had some good news after a difficult year.

The 18-month-old springer spaniel and border collie cross has been crowned top dog in the Adver's Pet Idol 2007 competition.

Her 12-year-old owner, Melissa Gooch from Holliday Close in Abbey Meads, says the puppy is a deserving champion after a tricky year.

"It was a complete surprise to hear she had won - I'm so happy," said Melissa, who attends Nova Hreod School.

"I think she got it because she is so cute - probably the cutest dog I have ever seen.

"Although I have two budgies as pets she is like my best friend.

"Poppy has been through a lot this year since we adopted her in March.

"After she got hit by a pebble at the seaside, she broke several teeth and had to have three operations."

Despite this Poppy did not lose her friendly personality.

"She's always nice and happy and she loves playing with children and animals," said Melissa.

"She's always wagging her tail and pleased to see people.

"Poppy also loves playing with a football and going for walks.

"She's very active, is as fast as a greyhound, and loves chasing after sticks."

Every pet in the contest appeared in the Advertiser's Pet Idol supplement printed last month.

There were 139 animals in the competition, out of which Poppy scooped the most public phone votes from the 800 cast in total.

Poppy has won a year's supply of pet food from competition sponsors Oscars Pet Foods.

Melissa's mum Helen added: "She is so placid - she wouldn't hurt a fly.

"She's so happy and friendly and likes attention.

"My daughter is ecstatic Poppy won."

The second-place winner was a Dalmatian called Bruno, who will receive six months' supply of pet food.

Another dog, called Toby, came third, who will receive a one-month feed up.