A DOG who helped his owner overcome the grief of losing her husband has won a regional competition for dogs that make a difference.

Nora Hutchinson, of Dringhouses, York, had been married to her husband, Peter, for 47 years when he was told he had cancer.

She said: "My husband died within three weeks of being diagnosed. My sister, who's a veterinary nurse, suggested I get a dog, and he's made a very, very big difference."

Monty is a Cavalier King Charles spaniel, and was nominated by Nora for the Dogs That Make A Difference award search being held by Pets Choice Ltd.

Nora said: "Monty is always there when I need him and when I'm feeling down. He gets me out of the house, meeting new people. I don't know what I would have done without him.

"I couldn't believe it when he got the letter to say he had won. I was over the moon!"

Maria Atherton, Pets Choice search co-ordinator, said: "We have had some very touching stories of dogs that are making a real difference to people all over the country.

"Monty is a very special dog and he truly deserved a place as a regional finalist."

The national winner of the competition will become the new face of Webbox Puffed Jerky, made by Pets Choice Ltd, and be featured on the packaging for a limited time.

Updated: 11:53 Wednesday, July 31, 2002