THE country’s best pet has been found in Witham after a month-long search.

Carol Phile and her German Shepherd Bertie have been crowned The UK’s Best Pet by Protectivity Insurance.

Pet owners across the UK were asked to write a love letter to their pets letting them know how they have been a source of comfort over the last 12 months.

After 123 entries, Carol and Bertie were crowned the winners.

Carol, who has had Bertie since he was a puppy, said he “lives to learn”.

She said: “Over the last year I have become disabled and I can’t walk or play with you like I used to.

“I was afraid that our bond would be affected when I couldn’t do as much, but we are closer than ever.

“You keep me going with your love and clowning, you get me off the floor when I fall or fetch my phone so I can call for help and you never let me down. I love you Bertie.”

After Bertie was crowned the winner, Carol added: “We have had Bertie since he was a puppy, he lives to learn, so he enjoys finding new ways to help me, some taught and some that he’s thought of himself.

“For example, when I struggle to get up he will put his head under my head and shoulders and push me up to a sitting position.”

Carol chose German Shepherd Dog Rescue to be the recipient of the £100 charity donation.

Sean Walsh, of Protectivity said: “Reading some of the incredible and touching stories from pet owners across the country shows just how much of a huge part of our lives our pets are.

"They are our companions, our sleeping-buddies, and never fail to put a smile on our faces, especially during such a difficult time.

"We’re thrilled to crown Bertie the UK’s Best Pet, and make a contribution towards the German Shepherd Dog Rescue charity.

"The road towards the provisional end of lockdown may seem like it's some way off, but thankfully for pet lovers up and down the UK, they have furry, feathered and scaly friends to keep them company, and put a smile on their face."