Worcestershire has a new star this morning, and she's got something X-Factor winner Leona Lewis will never have - namely four legs, a tail and lovely soft fur.

As far as the county's pet owners are concerned, our Pet Idol contest, run in conjunction with Wilson's Pet Centres, is The X-Factor, Pop Idol, Opportunity Knocks and Stars In Their Eyes all rolled into one.

And while overall winner Tip Toes, plus category winners Inca Sanchez, Thumper and Terry, may not realise the significance of their achievement, their owners are thrilled to bits.

Because it's obvious that Katie Lettley, Nikki Thompson, Carrie Bray and Amy Riley are absolutely devoted to their pets.

And that's what it's all about.

Because Pet Idol is not really a talent show or a beauty contest, but a celebration of the love that pet owners have for their animals.

Although these are the four entrants our judges have named the cutest from a shortlist chosen by thousands of readers, let's not forget the hundreds of other owners who sent in pictures for the competition and will always think their pet is the best - which is how it should be.

The lucky winners and runners-ups get hundreds of pounds in vouchers which they can spend in Wilsons to make sure their pets are more contented than ever.

But everyone who owns a pet will always make sure their animals have what they need, whether they win a competition or not.

So congratulations to the winners, but well done to all the proud pet owners who entered - and better luck next year.