London's most gay dog; Skipper, with owner Neil Mitche

The search for London’s most fabulous dog is over, with the winner now set to star at this weekend’s Pride Parade celebrations.

Skipper, a Staffordshire bull terrier, beat off 29 rival canines for the title of London’s first-ever Pride Pooch.

Now she will be top dog on the Battersea dogs and cats home float at the event tomorrow, surrounded by dancers.

Judges were impressed by Skipper’s good looks and calm nature, which may come in handy at the high-octane and noisy carnival atmosphere of the Pride festival.

Proud owner Neil Mitchell said: “Skipper’s a fantastic rescue dog. I fell in love with her as soon as I saw her at Battersea, and I’m really proud of her for taking the title of Pride Pooch 2011.

“I’m so excited about seeing her in the Pride Parade this weekend, and I know she’s going to love sitting on the float and lording it over the crowds.”

Battersea Dogs & Cats Home Events Officer Richard Chadwick added: “We can’t wait to welcome Skipper onto the Battersea float at Saturday’s parade. She’s a wonderful Staffie and a very worthy winner.

“London’s first Pride Pooch show was a big success and it was great to see so many lovely doggies with their proud owners,” he added.

There was delight for Battersea Dogs and Cats home at Skipper’s win, after the centre cared for her when she arrived as a stray in 2009.