3 years ago
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ARTICLE AD BOX
Image source, Sir David Amess
Image caption, Sir David, pictured cuddling Vivienne in September, said she was political royaltyA French Bulldog who Sir David Amess said always made him smile has been crowned Westminster Dog of the Year.
Vivienne was owned by the Conservative MP for Southend West, who was stabbed to death while meeting constituents in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, a fortnight ago.
Sir David nominated his companion for always lifting his spirits and said she was "an enthusiastic supporter of Southend becoming a city!".
Southend was granted city status in Sir David's honour, days after his death.
Westminster Dog of the Year is a celebration of the bond between dogs and their parliamentarian owners.
The Dogs Trust, which runs the awards with The Kennel Club, said Vivienne was a fitting winner "in memory of Sir David Amess, a devoted animal lover".
Conservative MPs Andrew Rosindell and Mark Francois collected the honour with Vivienne.
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