Nellie named Heroic Hearing Dog

Nellie won her award after she alerted her family to intruders

A dog from East Sussex has won a national award for the help and support she provides her deaf owner.

Nellie, a black labrador, who lives in Brighton with Gill Houghton, has been named Heroic Hearing Dog of the Year.

"When the alarm goes off she bounces from the floor up onto the bed... and she will tell me when the doorbell or telephone goes," Ms Houghton said.

"You feel like you're not the only one there - that she's on your side, and she will tell you."

Nellie also helps Ms Houghton's children when they want to get their mother's attention.

The award was made to Nellie after she alerted her family to intruders.