A SWINDON man and his dog put their best paw forward to scoop a major prize and honour his dead mother.

Jason Hunt, 50, from Swindon, and his Daschshund Finn received the prestigious Best of Breed award at Crufts.

For more than 35 years, the owner of 13 dogs participated in the competition with his mum Susan, who died last year.

He said: “It was bittersweet experience, mainly because I co-owned Finn with my mother who passed away on the Valentine’s Day last year.

“I won Best of Breed with his sister last year, but it is still mixed emotions because she just wasn’t here to see it.”

But Jason and his beloved 22-month-old dog were still able to enjoy their moment in the spotlight.

“Everybody loves to win at Crufts,” he said.

“The judge saw all Finn’s wonderful qualities and he’s a brilliant example of the breed.”