A Clayhall groomers is just a whisker away from becoming best in show after being shortlisted for a national prize.

Professional pooch preeners Paw-Fect have fought off hundreds entrants to make it through to the London finals of the National Apprenticeship Awards 2014.

The Longwood Gardens business - which takes on apprentices from Chelmsford’s Writtle College and has only three employees - has been shortlisted in the Newcomers category.

Owner Stacy Ismael, 44, said: “We were delighted to have been put through to the London regional finals.

“Myself, [co-workers] Kirsty and Carla have worked hard to provide a dedicated and skilled service to our customers, and for this to be acknowledged by such a prestigious achievement is fabulous news.

“We really feel that we could not have achieved all we have to date without the support and wonderful staff at Writtle College.”