The home of the world's favourite vet was the setting for the launch of the hunt to find the best of British pets.

The World of James Herriot, in Thirsk, hosted the launch of the Animal Health Trust's Willing and Giving (WAG) awards, the Oscars of the animal world.

Among the guests at yesterday's launch was Phoenix, a golden labrador, who was last year's WAG talented pet of the year.

Phoenix, a fire and rescue dog, is both the pet and workmate of Dave Myers, of the protection services department in Northumberland.

The competition is organised by Thirsk-based pet food manufacturer Waggfoods and the Animal Health Trust. All the winners will receive a year's supply of pet food and a trophy.

Judges for the competition include celebrities like Katie Boyle and Bernard Cribbins and the awards will be presented at the Merchant Adventurers' Hall, York, on a date to be fixed in April next year.

Categories include brave pet of the year and my special friend award, which looks for nominations from children under 14.

Appropriately for the site of the launch, there is also a vet of the year category.

Nomination leaflets are about to be distributed at vets' surgeries across the region.

Alternatively, nominations can be made direct to the Animal Health Trust, telephone 01638 751000.

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