A HEROIC little Wrexham dog took to the ring in Crufts on Sunday in the Friends for Life parade.

Five-year-old Yorkshire terrier Poppy Lou saved owner Victoria Shaw's life last December.

Victoria had fallen asleep in her Rhosymedre bungalow unaware that poisonous fumes were leaking from her gas fire.

Poppy Lou sensed something was wrong and alerted Victoria by frantically tugging on her nightie, crying, scratching and licking her face until she awoke.

When Victoria woke, she could smell gas but both made it safely out of their home.

Poppy Lou was one of six dogs short-listed out of 500 to take part in the 'Friends for Life' parade at the prestigious dog show at the Birmingham NEC.

Dogs are selected if they have rescued their owner, performed an act of bravery or simply for their companionship.

In the days leading up to Crufts, it was looking doubtful as to whether Victoria and Poppy Lou would make it to the event.

Victoria has a phobia of travelling alone and her friend was unable to accompany her.

Luckily, local taxi firm Town Cars stepped in and took her to the NEC in Birmingham.

Victoria and Poppy Lou thoroughly enjoyed their Crufts experience and Victoria was glad her little companion had been recognised for her bravery.

She said: 'It's every dog owner's dream to stand in the main ring at Crufts, showing their dog off.

'Poppy Lou and I had to go first, which was really nerve-racking. There were around 3,000 people in the ring and I was worried she would freak out when she heard everyone clapping and cheering. But she was fine. She even made friends with a little terrier.

'The Kennel Club were absolutely fantastic, they treated us like royalty.'

Poppy Lou and Victoria were presented with a crystal bowl during the parade.

The winner of the 'Friends for Life' parade, voted for by BBC2 viewers, was a Dog for the Disabled called Yogi, owned by 12-year-old Daniel Hebburn,

Victoria said: 'Yogi really deserved to win. Daniel has gone through a lot and Yogi does everything for him - even helping to dress him. It's amazing.'