CRUMPET, a dog owned by North Devon MP Nick Harvey, has come third in the Westminster Dog of the Year 2009 competition.

Crumpet, a six-year-old golden retriever, was beaten by Andrew Mitchell's dog Molly and Buster, a labrador owned by Andrew Murrison.

Mr Harvey, the Liberal Democrat defence spokesman, said: "Crumpet and I are very pleased to be on the podium but used to coming third in Westminster! He'll always get my vote though."

Now in its 17th year, the lighthearted event is organised jointly by the Kennel Club and Dogs Trust.

It aims to highlight the special relationship between dog and owner and promote responsible dog ownership.