LOCAL Dilton Marsh resident, Ashley Russell, is hoping to hit stardom with his dog after auditioning and being selected to star on the new Channel 4 TV series Superstar Dogs. The TV programme will be broadcast on Monday 17th February at 5.30pm for two weeks.
Ashley, whose dog is a German short haired Pointer named Oliver Twist, noticed that the production company Tuesday’s Child was running auditions for the forthcoming show, so he decided to give it a try. After two successful auditions, Ashley and Oliver received the news that they had been selected to appear on the TV programme.
Ashley said, “On the 27th and 31st January I travelled to MediaCityUK in Salford Quay, Manchester, to be filmed competing against 30 other dogs and handlers for a chance to win a cash prize and a grand unveiling at Crufts 2014.”
The competition and filming has concluded, but viewers will have to wait to find out who wins the Superstar title.
Ashley and Oliver Twist enjoyed a starry start as they met the new TV programme’s host.
Ashley explained, “We were introduced to TV host and presenter John Barrowman before taking to the stage and competing.
“I was extremely pleased with Oliver’s performance on the days’ filming; the bright lights and TV audience seemed to encourage him rather than hinder his performance. I asked Oliver to work out of his comfort zone on obstacles he was unfamiliar with and I couldn’t have asked for more effort nor commitment from my best friend and companion.
“Regardless of the final results, entering this competition has further built mine and Oliver’s bond and I could not have asked for a better or more loving dog than Oliver Twist.”
Watch Ashley and Oliver Twist on Superstar Dogs, starting on Monday 17th February. Full results will be unveiled on completion of the TV series.
