A puppy, born the runt of the litter and neglected by its original owners, has come runner-up in a top national dog competition.

Jo-Ann Essex, from Flitwick, rescued eight-month-old Staffie/lurcher cross Poppi, plus her parents and five siblings, when she found them living in their own mess with just a bowl of dirty water for nourishment.

But having been nursed back to health, Poppi, who was so underweight she spent several weeks wearing a jumper after Ms Essex found her, took one of the runner-up spots at the prestigious James Wellbeloved and
Association of Pet Dog Trainers Tails of Achievement Awards.

Ms Essex said: "Poppi's story really is a tale of
achievement. If her life had followed the path it was meant to, she probably wouldn't even be here today.

"This tiny, runty little puppy has turned into a beautiful, confident, intelligent dog.

Event manager Charlotte Mann said: "The aim of the awards is to show people that dogs are a real force for good in our society, and Poppi is certainly a great example."