BELINDA Morris a dog groomer extraordinaire.

The Ledbury woman has just won 1st place in the open hand strip category at Premier groom with a Dandie Dinmont Terrier called Jasper.

Belinda is passionate about dogs and grooming them safely.

She runs Four Paws Groom School Herefordshire at 7 The Southend, Ledbury.

We took time out to chat to Belinda who used to work in the fitness industry at a spa before turning to dog grooming.

How did you get into dog grooming?     

"I decided on a career change as I hit 30 years old I am now 48 and never looked back. Previously I was a manager of a women’s health spa and had always worked in the fitness industry"

Have you got a favourite breed to groom?      "Terriers."

What is Ledbury like as a town to operate in?    

" Lovely friendly customers and small private shops and businesses.

"Since I moved back to Ledbury and opened the school 3 years ago the Ledbury community have really supported me by bringing their dogs in for students to learn how to groom and gain a qualification in dog grooming."

What training have you done to be able to groom dogs?  

" I have achieved the highest level of qualification the industry has to offer with a Level 4 qualification from city and guilds and a higher diploma in dog grooming along with a degree in teaching and a level 4 qualification in Canine first aid."

What is the weirdest thing you have been asked to do at Four Paws?

"Circumcise a rabbit."

Anything else you would like to add? 

"I am passionate about people gaining a qualification in dog grooming as it is an unregulated industry.

"Learning how to safely groom dogs and gain their compliance and cooperation.

"For me I am at my happiest when I am surrounded by dogs.

"They bring us so much happiness."