By Isle of Wight Observer
An East Cowes dog is in the running to be crowned the UK’s scruffiest dog, in a national competition described as the “Anti-Crufts”.
Billy, a six-year-old sprocker spaniel – a cross between a springer and a cocker – has been named as one of six finalists in the first Scruffs contest, organised by holiday park company Away Resorts.
The competition was launched to coincide with Crufts last month, and aims to celebrate dogs of all ages and breeds, with scruffiness encouraged.
Away Resorts said it received hundreds of entries from around the UK.
The finalists were chosen by a judging panel which included Ted, from Mortimer and Whitehouse: Gone Fishing and Away Resorts’ chief executive and co-founder, Carl Castledine.
Voting is now taking place on Away Resorts’ social media channels, with the winner set to be crowned later this year.
Billy’s owner, Natasha Simons, said: “Billy, our six year old sprocker, loves puddles, the muddier the better!! He is an oversized lap dog that loves cuddles and is amazing with children!”
The winning dog will receive the title, and a staycation with Away Resorts, while the runners-up will receive prizes.
Mal Butler 
Isle of Wight Observer