Updated 08 September 2002, 12.22

Monty with owner Jacqui

 Click here to read Lily's tale about her life as a stray dog

But on Saturday Monty claimed the title at the 11th Annual RSPCA contest, known as the Crufts for cross-breeds.

He beat 60 other pets to claim the crown.

Monty with his prize

His owner 19-year-old Jacqui Cowley said, "When we got Monty he was really nervous around people, but at the competition he was just so loving to everyone."

Sparkle in his eye

Judges looked at overall health, behaviour and personality, but said it was the sparkle in his eye and the wag of his tail that clinched Monty the title.

With the number of stray dogs on the increase the RSCPA hope that events like this will encourage people to own stray dogs.

Monty will receive a special handmade coat embroidered with RSPCA Dog of the Year 2002.

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