DOGS competed over who was the handsomest, had the waggiest tale and best party trick at an inaugural poochfest in Barton.

More than 20 four-legged friends attended the first show of its kind at the Barton Neighbourhood Centre.

Doberman Rogue, one of four belonging to Sandhills resident Samantha Green, was crowned “most handsome dog”.

She said: “They are part of our family. They are not just dogs. It is not just about them being a pet, you can have fun with them.”

Among the other competitors was rescue dog King, a four-year-old Staffordshire terrier.

Owner Lorraine Hollingworth, of Stowford Road, said he could spot when autistic daughter Jade Harrison, 14, was low.

She said: “When she starts to panic he goes over and calms her down. And he seems to know when it is about to happen.”

Husband Mark Hollingworth added: “We couldn’t live without him.”

Jade, a pupil at the John Watson Special School near Wheatley, said: “He is my friend and he is really good. He is my best friend.”

The canine companion came third in the “most handsome dog” category and had the fourth most “waggiest tail”. The family’s other dog Marley won first prize in the “best trick” section for his trick “Stick ’em up”.

The brindle Staffordshire terrier raises his paws when the family point their finger at him and demand: “Stick ’em up”.

Mrs Hollingworth said of the event: “It’s a bit of socialisation and it promotes responsible ownership as well.”

Jodie Hall, 28, of Hubble Close, said she spent £100 on grooming her three Bichon Frise dogs every month.

She said: “I don’t have children so they are the next best thing. They are like my little babies.”

She landed second prize in the “best six legs” category for owners and their dogs and fourth “most handsome dog” for her pet Theo.

Robert Owen, of Aldebarton Drive, came third in the “best six legs” category with two-year-old Chihuahua Ronnie.

The 57-year-old said: “He is a good companion.”

Show organiser Hayley Davies, of Edgecombe Road, said the event had been a success.

She said: “Everybody on Barton who has a dog loves their dog.

“It is a really nice dog community and one of the reasons I organised the show was to bring more dogs together.

“I also wanted to show there is much more to do with your dog then take it on walks.”

Mrs Davies, who hopes to bring the show back in March, added: “It’s really about bringing the community together.”