AN AUCHINLECK family have returned to the scene of their triumph...along with Nero the hero.

Gillian and Steven Bodys, along with their daughter Neive, pictured right, were delighted to be invited back to Dumfries House.

They picked up a hand-drawn portrait of their two-year-old Newfoundland, called Nero, who won the estate’s dog show earlier this year

As well as the painting, created by Ayrshire artist John Fisher. Nero also took home a 20kg (44lb) bag of Pro-giant dog food from Husse.

Nero was named best in show at the family-friendly event, organised by Louise McClounie, which attracted a record number of spectators.

A series of lighthearted show categories were staged, including Cutest Dog, Worst Hair Day, Waggiest Tail and Best Sausage Catcher.

Louise said: “This was the fourth year in a row that we have held our Fun Dog Show and 2018 was our biggest success yet. Nero was a very worthy Best In Show winner and John Fisher’s portrait of him is uncanny.”

It was the first dog show that Nero had entered and owner Gillian was thrilled to be a winner.

She said: “We live locally and visit the estate to walk Nero every day so it was great to have him take part in the show this summer.

We’re really lucky that Dumfries House puts on events like this for the local community as they’re great fun.”