TWO animal lovers from Bolton have been handed a golden bone award in the dog world's version of the Oscars.

Bolton Dog Show organisers Ian and Linda Hardman were overjoyed after their annual event was named best in the country at the glitzy ceremony.

The awards evening, held in the Radisson Hotel at Manchester Airport, had all the razzmatazz of Hollywood's famous gong night.

And the couple, from Union Road, Tonge Moor, accepted their prize with all the modesty and grace of real stars.

Ian said: "They put down a red carpet for us and showed the nominations on a big screen just like at the real Oscar ceremony.

"We couldn't believe it when they opened the golden envelope and said we were winners. It was such a surprise. I didn't even have a speech prepared."

Ian and Linda have organised the dog show since 1995. It is held in conjunction with the Bolton Show every August and attracts entrants from around the world.

The Oscar judges from the Pet Role Trust said there was "massive public awareness" of the event and "excellent facilities" for exhibitors.

The other nominees for the golden bone were the Luton Canine Association and the Kent County Canine Association.

Linda, who breeds border terriers, said: "It was just like the real Oscars. There were quite a lot of famous people there, the champagne was flowing and we felt like stars.

"It takes us nearly a full year to organise each show but we get a lot of support from Bolton Council and from sponsors like Bolton Wanderers.

"All the hard work has been worth it. When we got on stage we thanked everyone for their support -- just like real Oscar winners."