Our annual award celebrates young people who are transforming the lives of others, recognising those who are going above and beyond or overcoming huge challenges to demonstrate their love of dogs, and encourage others to become a part the dog world.
They could be giving up their time to mentor other young people, training dogs, fundraising or competing. Whatever they are doing, they have one thing in common – a desire to make a difference and improve the lives of dogs.
Shaun McAlpine Memorial Trophy
The overall winner of the Young Kennel Club Young Person of the Year award will be presented with the Shaun McAlpine Memorial Trophy.
The award has been presented at Crufts for over 39 years by Ed and Cindy McAlpine. The award is in memory of Shaun, who tragically died two weeks after his 22nd birthday in November 1984.
The trophy is awarded annually to encourage young dog lovers to become more involved in dog activities, as Shaun himself had achieved considerable success as a dog handler, competing at Crufts on many occasions.
Roll of honour
- 2024 - Emily Dabb
- 2023 - Izzy King
- 2022 -
- 2021 - Lewis Garstang
- 2020 - Ryan Hennessy
- 2019 - Paige Jepson
- 2018 - Lauren Ashby
- 2017 - Daisy Buckland
- 2016 - Charlotte-Louise Page
- 2015 - Oliver Beckett
- 2014 - Ryan Ross
- 2013 - Jessica Ward
- 2012 - Kian Pellow
- 2011 - Alice Moodie
- 2010 - Chelsea Hickford
- 2009 - Linzi Follet
- 2008 - Joshua Griffin
- 2007 - Georgina Ferguson
- 2006 - Stephanie Lansdell
- 2005 - Chantelle Prior
- 2004 - Jodie Harrison
- 2003 - Rachel Buckwell
- 2002 - Amy Holmes
- 2001 - Adam Rose
- 2000 - Jodie Harrison
- 1999 - Adrian Marett
- 1998 - Defrel Owen
- 1997 - Donna-Elena Hardwicke
- 1996 - Phillippa Noble
- 1995 - Dona-Elena Hardwicke
Young Person of the Year Award
Recognising outstanding Young Kennel Club members, and their dogs, who are making a difference to improve the lives of their canine companions.
The Kennel Club Educational Trust will be awarding £100.00 to all category winners then £250.00 for the final overall winner.
New Nomination Categories for 2025
Inspiration – Awarded to a young person and their dog who have inspired others either through their own personal journey or have made a significant positive impact in their community.
Teamwork – Awarded to an inspirational partnership or team of members and their canine companions that have overcome challenges to achieve together.
Talent – Awarded to a young handler or trainer who has shown exceptional skill and dedication in competing or training their dog.
Creative – Awarded to a young person who has creatively showcased their love of dogs through art, photography, writing, or social media.
Awareness – Awarded to a young person who actively promotes animal welfare or involvement in animal rescue or shelter work, and awareness campaigns.
How to nominate
Nominations open November 2025
To nominate someone for the Young Person of the Year Award, you may only nominate a member for one of the categories (and you can't nominate yourself). All nominees must be current Young Kennel Club member. Once the category winners have been announced, the general public will then get to vote on who should win the overall Young Person of the Year award in January 2025. All category winners will be invited to Crufts 2025 to find out who’ll be the overall Young Person of the Year.