David Amess MP’s pugs Lily and Bo, seven and eleven year old Pugs, just missed out on a place on the podium in the 21st annual Westminster Dog of the Year competition.

The competition, organised by the Kennel Club and Dogs Trust, took place on Thursday 10th October, in Victoria Tower Gardens, Westminster. Lily and Bo showed dogged determination as they battled it out amongst 14 paw-litical dogs.

The MPs entering the competition campaigned hard, canvassing for votes from the public before meeting the expert judges to boast about their dog’s heroic deeds and acts of devotion.

David Amesss, said of his beloved dogs: “Although all of the excitement and suspense caused them get a bit hot under the collar, Lily and Bo stole the show yet again with their charm and good looks” he added “They had an enjoyable day getting lots of attention, treats and making some new friends”

The judging panel - Clarissa Baldwin, CEO of Dogs Trust, Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club Secretary, and MP Charlie Elphicke, owner of 2012’s winning dog Star - spent the morning with dogs from different political persuasions and ambitions.

Commenting on the 2013 Westminster Dog of the Year, Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club Secretary says: “Again this year we have seen lots of worthy dogs compete for this title and the bond each MP has with their dog is uniquely special. It was a delight to meet Lily and Bo with David Amess, they provide a great example for responsible ownership.”

Clarissa Baldwin, CEO of Dogs Trust continued: “It is fantastic to see so many wonderful dogs in attendance with their devoted owners. It seems to get harder every year to pick the winner.”

The overall winner of the competition was Noodle, a Cockapoo owned by Rt Hon Alan Duncan MP for Rutland and Melton