Alison Rogers LCGI from Pretty Paws Grooming & Training Centre in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire was named 2012 Groomer of the Year at the British Dog Grooming Championship on Sunday 28 October, winning with a Purebred Scissor Bichon Frise and a clipped/stripped Springer Spaniel. Runner-up was Linda Barker, and third place went to Mike Wildman.
Alison first won the prestigious dog grooming title in 2007, and since then has been in demand from companies to test and promote their grooming products. The day following her win, Alison flew to Italy with her winning Bichon Frise, Caesar, and claimed ‘Best of Breed’ titles in two Italian dog shows.
Following her successful week, Alison said: ‘I’m a bit shocked actually, and in a bit of pain as I only came out of hospital a week and a half ago! I wanted to win Groomer of the Year again so that I could semi-retire and concentrate more on showing and grooming abroad. Taking two Best of Breed titles in Italy just days afterwards was the icing on the cake. Both dogs were brilliant, especially Caesar who had to endure a flight abroad. I’m so proud of them!’
With just under 120 competitors, and almost 150 dogs being groomed, the 2012 British Dog Grooming Championship was the biggest ever in its history. Taking place at The Kennel Club Building, Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire, over 600 visitors attended the show and soaked up the vibrant atmosphere, watching the variety of classes and display of grooming prowess, as well as picking up bargains from the trade stands.
The Championship was sponsored by Groomers Limited, Simpsons, Dezynadog, HIA, Red Cape, Smart Pets International Grooming School, Aesculap and the Pet Care Trust, with ProGroomer as media sponsor.
The full results are available on the PCTA website: www.petcare.org.uk