Philip Langdon, of Atastar Poodles near Bristol became the first Groomer of the Year in its 28-year history to gain a hat-trick, winning the event for the third time to crown his achievements in 1995 and 2002. Philip won with a Standard Poodle, and a Scottish Terrier in the Clipped Terrier/Schnauzer Class. He scooped prizes totalling £500 courtesy of Groomer of the Year sponsor, Groomers Limited.

In a tight competition, the 2006 winner, Jitka Krizova, who also won both her classes, was placed as Runner-up, and another former winner (2004), Heidi Anderton, was placed third.

The Student & Newcomer of the Year was Laura Jones, who won the Miniature/Toy Poodle class, and walked away with a scholarship sponsored by Absolutely Animals dog grooming training school and Mikki.

The events was judged this year by Liz Dunhill, a top breeder and judge; Angel Marques Penedo, a poodle breeder known on the Spanish and international circuit; and Suzanne Ruiz, a former Groomer of the Year and dog grooming examiner.

Aside from the excitement in the grooming hall, there was plenty of activity elsewhere with a record number of trade stands exhibiting and a selection of well-attended seminar and grooming demonstrations on offer.

Next year’s British Dog Grooming Championship will be held at the new Kennel Club Building at Stoneleigh Park on Sunday 18 October 2008.