By Phil Campbell

A DOG owner from Harlow was lost for words after claiming the ultimate crossbreed prize at Crufts.
Lyn Freeman, 77, and Marnie, her eight-year-old Terrier cross, won the Scruffts Family Crossbreed of the Year title at the world’s greatest dog show.

Marnie was one of four crossbreed finalists in the national Scruffts competition, which is exclusively supported by pet food makers James Wellbeloved.

Hundreds of dogs competed in qualifying heats around the country in 2024, with 24 dogs and their owners taking part in the semi-finals, which also took place at Crufts earlier on Saturday.

Lyn said: “It’s brilliant – absolutely brilliant. I didn’t expect it at all.
“Proud doesn’t feel like a strong enough word. She’s very good and just takes everything in her stride.

She’s a bit tired now, but she’s not fussed by any of it.
“I wanted to cry. I really did. I was just so surprised. There were some lovely dogs there and I thought they’d pick one of the others. But it was Marnie, and it was brilliant.”

“It was a complete surprise. She’s won the Good Citizen semi-finals for the last two years, but being in the veteran class I thought there would be older dogs and that she wouldn’t have a chance because she’s still quite young. It just came completely out of the blue and knocked me for six.”

The four finalists were judged by Dame Laura Kenny, and dog judge David Craig, who were looking for qualities such as good character, health and temperament with people and other dogs.

The Scruffts Family Crossbreed of the Year competition is run by the Royal Kennel Club, which organises Crufts, and caters exclusively for crossbreed dogs: dogs

As well as the Scruffts Crossbreed Family Dog of the Year title, Marnie received a year’s supply of healthy hypo-allergenic dog food from James Wellbeloved.

James Wellbeloved Brand Manager, Sonja Hartomo said: “Huge congratulations to Lyn and Marnie on their fantastic achievement – it was clear to see the pair have a truly special bond and they are very deserving winners.

“James Wellbeloved is very proud to be exclusive supporters of this wonderful competition which celebrates the nation’s wonderful crossbreed dogs.”

Crufts tok place from 5-8 March 2026 at the NEC, Birmingham.

For more information and results from the show, visit crufts.org.uk.