Croydon Champions canine mascot was crowned Pet’s As Therapy dog of the year at Crufts Dog show.

Hamish McFee, a west highland terrier, was rewarded for all of his hard work in the physiotherapy and stroke units at Mayday Hospital.

The little hero posed for the cameras after his award was announced with proud owners Barry and Margaret Crossby.

The former Croydon Champions nominee has been working at the hospital for the past six years.

On one memorable occasion he helped a woman out of a coma following a stroke.

Mr Crossby said: "The daughter asked if Hamish could visit her mum because she loved dogs and they hoped it would help.

“We visited her for several weeks chatting to her until one day a member of the family rushed up to say the lady had woken up and asked ‘Where is Hamish?’ His name was the first thing she said. She remembered him over her own dog.

”It proves that even when you are comatose you can hear what people say. Pets as Therapy even extends to help people who are unconscious.”

The much-loved westie, a familiar sight around Croydon, was nominated for his award by 18 healthcare professionals at Mayday.

The busy wonder dog also works as a junior road safety officer, helping school children to cross the road safely and he helps children who have pet phobias.

He won £500, three months supply of Hilife dog food and a specially engraved piece of crystal.

Mr Crossby said: “Hamish has now cemented his name in the Pets as Therapy hall of fame and after 8 years as a PAT dog thoroughly deserves it.

“Hopefully you will be able to let all Guardian readers who have supported Hamish over the years the good news and thank all who voted for the little star.”

Tony Parkinson said: “I want to congratulate Hamish McFee, Barry and Margaret Crossby, and all the finalists for the compassion and care they show throughout the year, along with all the other pets as Therapy volunteers and P.A.T dogs around the country who do remarkable work, with some incredible results. All of us at HiLife are proud to be playing our part in supporting such a worthwhile cause.”

Pets as Therapy 4,500 volunteers and their registered P.A.T. dogs bring much needed therapeutic care, smiles and friendship to over 130,000 people every week. For further information call Pets as Therapy on 01844 345 445 or visit www.petsastherapy.org