Former North Devon BGT contestant is back in the spotlight at Crufts

A former Britain's Got Talent contestant from Torrington was delighted to step into the spotlight once more at Crufts 2026 with her first-ever dog.

Entering the ring for her Crufts debut alongside miniature smooth-haired dachshund Bella, she was overwhelmed by the magnitude of the show but said that with her 16-month-old pet by her side, the calm quickly returned.

The founder of the Teachers Rock Choir auditioned on the BGT stage in 2024 alongside other North Devon teachers and schoolchildren, making it through to the next round with four ‘yeses’ from the judges, although they did not reach the semi finals.

READ MORE: Torrington musician and first-ever dog Bella set to make their Crufts debut

Debbie’s first time at Crufts was another big national stage – and with the first dog she had ever owned too.

Above: Debbie had not realised initially the previous dog shows she entered had qualified Bella for Crufts. 

Debbie said: “I run lots of big and vast projects, not quite on this scale, but big, south-west projects for young people trying to help support their mental health through transformation, musical experiences.

“So, my job can be quite stressful on a day-to-day basis and what Bella can bring is this amazing sense of calm and unconditional love to my life.

“This is way more nerve-wracking than getting in front of a full house at Exeter Cathedral and delivering a singing festival, or singing in front of an audience because you feel responsible, but in a different way.

“I think probably because I've just never done this before.”

Debbie and Bella qualified for their first Crufts completely by accident not just once, but twice.

The music teacher was unaware the dog show she entered was a Crufts qualifier and was shocked to find out she had booked her ticket to the hallowed green carpet this March.

With showing now under their belt, Debbie also revealed they had now taken up mini agility, obedience and scent work training with an ex-police officer as they continue to explore the opportunities available to them.

She added: “She qualified at her first dog show as a complete novice.

“I wanted to take her to a show that wasn't mixed breed, but I didn't realise it was a Crufts qualifier and then she got placed. And then her second show, she placed second so we qualified twice.

“I've got friends that have come here and I've got friends who've been judges at other dog shows. So we know quite a lot about the world but nothing about showing a dog.

“It's been quite a learning curve and coming here is quite overwhelming.”

Away from her newfound world of dog showing, Debbie leads the Teachers Rock Choir and delivers music projects at Exeter Cathedral for children looking to get into music.

It has seen her standing on the famous BGT stage and recording at Abbey Road Studios, as she looks to inspire school children of all ages and backgrounds to find their musical avenue.

Crufts, run by The Kennel Club, is a unique celebration of happy, healthy dogs and of the loving relationship that they enjoy with their owners.

Crufts is held from March 5 to 8 at the NEC Birmingham. Viewers can follow all the action from the last day today (Sunday) and highlights on Channel 4 and More4 or for more information visit https://crufts.org.uk