Swanley dog handler secures double prize at Crufts 2026

A dog handler has scooped two prizes at Crufts after winning the Royal Kennel Club Agility Championships. Handler Shannon Springford, from Swanley in Kent, secured the double victory, winning two separate categories with two different dogs. Springford won the Royal Kennel Club Agility Championships for small dogs, with Shetland Sheepdog Halloumi, and the Royal Kennel Club Agility Championships for large dogs with Banter, a Border Collie. Speaking to BBC Radio Kent, she said: "It was such an experience to be surrounded by so many people and dogs, and a great honour." Crufts is organised by the Royal Kennel Club and took place in Birmingham between Thursday and Sunday. Despite the double success, Springford said she was initially going simply "to have a lovely time" but winning two trophies was something she "dreamed of". Springford said: "We have try-outs coming up for Great Britain, then my dogs can have a well-earned rest." Following the competition, she said the dogs were happy to be home and "looking forward to going on a long walk on the beach". A Clumber spaniel named Bruin was crowned best in show at Crufts 2026, fending off competition from close to 19,000 competitors. Janni