You have heard of Crufts but what about the Budgerigar World Show?

Taking place this month, the show will bring together the UK’s best budgies and their breeders, including one man from Watford who will be flying the flag for the town this year.

Jon Ashby is a member of the Budgerigar Society, first set up in 1925. There is a specialist society based in Watford and Mr Ashby has been selected to represent the town alongside 2,000 fellow Budgerigars.

The budgie is a popular pet in the UK and breeding used to be a big hobby across the country. Notable past Budgerigar breeders include the late Formula One motor racing champion James Hunt.

Mr Ashby, who breeds more than 125 birds a year from 35 breeding cages, will be competing at the show in Doncaster on September 29 and 30, and he cannot wait to appear alongside the UK’s best.

He said: “I’ve kept budgies since I was a child and I’ve just got the bug and can’t shake it off. It is incredible to see the birds in the flesh and to be able to wonder at the different colours and varieties that are possible to breed.

“This is an at-home hobby, inexpensive, and peaceful. And it’s great for everyone to show off their exhibits at what I like to call the Budgie Crufts.”

Mr Ashby is hoping for success at the show later this month where people are competing for the coveted award of Best in Show.