A Whitefield man is preparing to compete in the UK’s most prestigious dog agility competition after qualifying this year.

Les Pearce, 47, will compete at internationally-acclaimed dog show Crufts, with his Cocker Spaniel, Fire in March next year following a busy summer of qualifying events.

The talented duo has also earned a place at The London International Horse show, an equestrian show which also includes a prize for dog agility, taking place this December. 

Les, who has been training dogs for more than a decade, says this is the first time he has qualified for either competition.

He said: “It’s like horse jumper for dogs, there’s jumps and there’s tunnels, you have to weave in and out of the polls, there’s a seesaw, A-frame and dog walk.

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“It’s a course set by a Kennel Club judge which you have to run over, then you have to finish in the top three to qualify for the semi-finals.”

Bury Times: Fire the Cocker Spaniel with his awards.Fire the Cocker Spaniel with his awards. (Image: Les Pearce)

Les, who is a dog groomer at Growling Groomers Doggy Day Care on Egremont Close, says his hobby requires regular travel to shows across the country and a rigid schedule of training.

“I train three times a week, I train for myself and the dogs.

“I also go all over the country to different training sessions with other trainers, so there is a lot of training and its constant, all year round.”

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Les says the sport is challenging but has many benefits for both animal and owner.

“It keeps you fit, it’s challenging and it takes over your life!

“I have eight dogs and we’re away in a motor home every weekend through summer.

“It’s a good thing to do with my dogs, the dogs love it and it builds your relationship with the dogs.”

Despite his passion for the sport, Les says training for competitions like Crufts is tough and requires a lot of dedication.

“ Its quite difficult to win, you;ve got a try and get two clears and win the final and when its against some of the best dogs in the country, its very hard and I may never do it again.”