MP Tobias Ellwood traded voting on laws for judging the best in show at a Poole dog show.

The Conservative MP for Bournemouth East was at the Upton Bay care home, in Hamworthy, for a special event to coincide with National Dog Day on August 26.

Residents had a brilliant time at their dog show, organised by wellbeing activities lead Karen Grant, in association with Caring Canines and chairman Sue Dennet.

Mr Ellwood, fresh from judging the Best in Show category, said: “I have always looked after dogs, we had them when I was growing up and they are such good company, I love how funny and loyal they are.

“As a patron of Caring Canines; I was only too happy to join in and help judge.”

General manager at Upton Bay, run by the Barchester group, Mevin Sohorye said: “Our residents love animals and lots of them have owned dogs in the past, so it was lovely to watch them enjoy petting and help judge categories such as ‘Prettiest Bitch’.

“Our varied life enrichment programme keeps residents active, and provides a daily choice of engaging physical, mental and spiritual activities tailored to residents’ interests and abilities.”

rbsh