The final night of the nation’s favourite dog event, Crufts, is to be broadcast for the first time on Channel 4 next year. More4 will continue its coverage across the remainder of the annual four-day show.

With Clare Balding at the helm, Channel 4 will cover the grand finale of Crufts 2012 for two hours, from 6pm-8pm, on Sunday, March 10. More4 will be covering the first three days for two and half hours each night, from 6.30pm-9pm, March 7-9.

Channel 4 Documentaries Commissioning Editor, Anna Miralis has also commissioned a documentary entitled Best in Show: Taking the Lead, to be broadcast in the lead up to Crufts.

“Channel 4 is known for its coverage of great sporting events and our Crufts coverage will capture all of the excitement of the different competitions, from showing to agility, in a live sporting format," said Anna.

The move of the Sunday night show to Channel 4 reflects the continuing popularity of Crufts and demand for coverage. More4 will look forward to continuing its coverage of the event for the other three days, delivering an exciting show for its loyal dog-loving audience.

Crufts coverage will include interviews about buying and caring for dogs, as well as exploring issues surrounding dog health, welfare and general wellbeing.

Caroline Kisko, Secretary of the Kennel Club, which organises Crufts, says: “The Sunday night programme on Channel 4 will enable millions of people to watch the grand finale of the world’s greatest dog event.

"Crufts is a key date in any dog lover’s calendar and More4’s coverage for the last three years has captured the special relationship between man and dog. The coverage on More4 and Channel 4 means that it will continue to be essential viewing, whether people are looking for information on choosing, caring for and enjoying life with their dog or simply want to watch dogs of all shapes and sizes showing off a range of special talents.”