London’s biggest dog event, the Kennel Club's Discover Dogs 2009, taking place for the first time in Earls Court 1, will play host to the grand final of the nation’s favourite crossbreed competition, Scruffts, H&C has learned.

The final will take place on Saturday 14th November in the main ring, and showcase over 60 crossbreed dogs of all shapes and sizes, all hoping to collect the coveted Scruffts Family Crossbreed Dog of the Year 2009.

In contrast to DFS Crufts, the world famous dog show open to pedigree dogs, Scruffts caters exclusively for crossbreed dogs: a dog of mixed blood whose parents are of two different breeds, or a mixture of several breeds.

During regional heats, which were held across the length and breadth of the UK throughout the year, entrants were given a few minutes in the spotlight to dazzle the judges in the following four classes:

• Most Handsome Crossbreed Dog (six months - seven years)

• Prettiest Crossbreed Bitch (six months - seven years)

• Child's Best Friend* (six months - seven years)

• Golden Oldie Crossbreed (eight years or over)

*Handled by a young person between six and 16 years of age inclusively

First place winners from each of the regional heats have been invited to compete in the grand final, where celebrity judge Peter Purves, of Blue Peter and Doctor Who fame, will take into account the importance of dog training and responsible dog ownership, and will judge the entrants on good character, health and temperament as well as looks.

Caroline Kisko, Communications Director at the Kennel Club, said: “Scruffts is such a special way of spending time both with your family and your dog.

“We’re anticipating a more exciting, competitive and fascinating grand final than ever at Discover Dogs’ newer, bigger home of Earls Court 1 this year, with thousands of dogs of all kinds from across the country joining in the fun at the event. We wish all the competitors the best of luck!”

Scruffts is run in support of the Kennel Club Charitable Trust, which has donated over £4m worth of grants to benefit the canine world since its inception in 1987. Its mission is to promote the improvement of dogs through charitable donations and helping to fund research into canine health problems.