A young woman has been commended at this year's Crufts for her volunteering work with a dog charity.

Lauren Portnall received the Cinnamon Trust Young Volunteer of the Year award for helping out people who are unable to exercise their dogs themselves.

The 18 year old of Burton Close, Wainscott began volunteering with the trust in February 2018 after she saw an appeal on Facebook for people to help with dog walking.

The charity links dog lovers with people who are unable to fully care for their canine companions. Volunteer exercise the dogs.

Lauren began volunteering as a way to de-stress from her exam revision. She was linked to two dogs who she now takes out regularly for walks.

She said: "I got to help someone else who was in need and at the same time I was given the opportunity to spend an hour every day with a dog - it was perfect!

"It’s been a year since I started volunteering for The Cinnamon Trust, and I can honestly say it has been the most amazing time.

"I love Ruby and Poppy with all my heart, but they wouldn’t be the same without their lovely owners Carol and Dee.

"I see one of them every day and it’s the perfect escape that I needed from school, and now university.

"I think if it wasn’t for The Cinnamon Trust, I would be a very different person today, and for that reason I will be eternally grateful and thankful to them."

The world's largest dog show began on Thursday, March 7 at the NEC in Birmingham.

Dee Keddie, who owns Westie Poppy, said: "I cannot express the joy that Lauren brings to my house.

"Poppy loves her and my other volunteers so much. Lauren is always happy and smiling she does brighten our day.

"I have been ill with cancer so it's been a relief to have the support of the Cinnamon Trust and its wonderful volunteers. I am happy and so is my Poppy."
Carol Seabrook, whose dog is a Springer Spaniel called Ruby, said: "Lauren is a lovely girl and heaven sent to us.

"If we did not have Lauren I would seriously have to think of re-homing Ruby as I cannot walk her at all without the danger of falling.

"Lauren is such a kind considerate girl who means the world to us."

Lauren will receive her award at Crufts today (March 9).