A NINE-YEAR-OLD boy has won a national dog handling competition.

Max Glover scooped first prize at the International Young Handler of the Year competition with his Papillon/Border Collie/Bearded Collie cross, Woody at the Kennel Club International Agility Festival last weekend.

Max, who has been competing in agility since the age of four, won the competition for under-12s at the festival, which took place from August 10 to 13 at Rockingham Castle.

Guided by Max, three year-old Woody jumped and weaved his way around the course in the best time.

Speaking about his victory, Max said: “It's so special for me that I won a final with my own dog because I trained him myself."

The Kennel Club International Agility Festival attracted thousands of competitors from throughout the UK and across the world.

Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club Secretary, said: “Max and Woody are an inspiration to the young agility community and should be proud of their achievements at the show this weekend. Agility is a fun way to bond with your dog, whether young or old, and will keep you and your dog fit and healthy without even realising it.

"There are agility clubs all over the country so we hope that more young people will be inspired to try it for themselves after hearing about Max and Woody’s achievements.”