A Hereford couple are celebrating after their whippet raced to victory at a top event in Kent, writes Ian Morgan.

Costabob thrilled owners John and Monica Bishop by clinching supreme champion status at the Maidstone & Mid Kent Pedigree Racing Club.

Racing in the 25-27 lbs class, 2-year-old Costabob, also known as Wilf, fought back from eight yards down to secure victory in the 240-yard final.

John, a well-known local face who used to drive the Hereford United team coach, has been racing dogs for more than nine years,

He said: "My wife and I are absolutely delighted with Costabob's victory. We have three other dogs, but Costabob has been our biggest success."

John, chairman of the Independent Pedigree Whippet Racing Club in Worcester, said he put Costabob's success down to all the hard work and effort spent in walking and training him.

Last year, the Hereford whippet shot to prominence by winning the supreme final of the Sussex Puppy Derby in Worthing.