Crufts champion Geordie Girl got the VIP treatment when she met the new Lord Mayor of Newcastle.

Crufts winner, Geordie Girl, with the Lord Mayor of Newcastle, Cllr Hazel Stephenson

The stunning West Highland Terrier from County Durham and her owner Marie Burns were invited for tea with the Lord Mayor of Newcastle Cllr Hazel Stephenson.

Cllr Stephenson, who has two dogs of her own, has chosen the Dogs Trust as one of her chosen charities for her mayoral year.

Geordie Girl, whose house name is Devon, caught the eye of the Lord Mayor as she and millions of viewers watched her win Crufts in March this year.

Cllr Stephenson said: “I adore dogs and wanted to raise money for them by supporting the Dogs Trust.

“Like many people I was smitten by Geordie Girl when I first saw her on TV and thought it would be lovely to invite her and her owner in for a cup of tea and a chat.

“We’ve had great fun having our photographs taken with her. She is lovely and Marie takes her into all sorts of setting with children and older people to help brighten their day which is just wonderful.”

Marie of Tow Law, who runs a dog grooming school, Top Trimz in Leadgate, Consett, said: “I am from the West End of Newcastle originally, so it was an honour to meet the Lord Mayor. Devon really took to her.

“Not every dog is as fortunate as Devon, who has a loving home, warm bed, food and is fed every day.

“Dogs not as lucky as Devon do need donations that help give them the quality of life that they deserve, so it’s great that the Lord Mayor is supporting this important charity.”

Over the next year, Cllr Stephenson’s other chosen charities will support cancer care, children with arthritis and firefighters.

If anyone would like to make a donation to the Dogs Trust via the Lord Mayor, e-maillord.mayor@newcastle.gov.uk