A Cut Above in Canine Care
Marie Burns, the proud owner of Top Trimz, has been grooming dogs in Leadgate for over 20 years. Her business has flourished, becoming a trusted name in the local area not just for pet grooming, but also as a training hub for future professionals.
From Groomer to Educator
Operating from her immaculate, well-equipped salon, Marie now trains others to become qualified dog groomers. On a recent visit, I observed a class of five students hard at work, grooming a variety of breeds under Marie’s expert guidance.
The students, who come from across the North East, are working towards a City & Guilds qualification — a key step that allows them to work in other salons or even set up their own grooming businesses. It was heartening to see how carefully they handled each dog, clearly trained to ensure their four-legged clients felt safe, calm, and comfortable.
Judging at the Highest Level
When she’s not in the salon, Marie is making waves in the dog show world. She regularly serves as a judge at top-tier competitions, including the world-famous Crufts. In fact, she’s something of a local legend — in 2016, her own West Highland Terrier, Devon, was crowned Best in Show at Crufts, one of the most prestigious accolades in the canine world.
A Legacy of Expertise and Passion
Whether it’s grooming pets, training the next generation of professionals, or judging on the world stage, Marie Burns continues to elevate the standards of dog care — all from her base in Leadgate. Her dedication, expertise, and love for animals are evident in every snip, clip, and show-stopping moment.
📸 Story and photo by David Leck – Consett in Focus
