A HIGHLY respected dog was just one vote away from becoming the leader of a village group. Jackson the dog ran his rival Peter Talbot all the way to

A HIGHLY respected dog was just one vote away from becoming the leader of a village group.Jackson the dog ran his rival Peter Talbot all the way to the wire in a thrilling election race to decide who would become chairman of Congresbury Footpaths Group.After a dogged battle to become the group's number one, Peter clocked up 16 votes and edged out Jackson's admirable 15.Peter was expected to be easily voted in when the group's annual general meeting started, as there were no other nominations apart from him.But some members of the group felt Jackson had attended more walks and club events than Peter and nominated him to be chairman as well.The 10-year-old terrier was also set to enter into the voting for position of secretary, but he was withdrawn when villagers decided his typing skills were not up to scratch.Speaking after his victory, Peter said: "Everyone thought it was highly amusing but I didn't expect it to run so close."It all got a bit nervy but if he had won I'm sure he would have done a sterling job as chairman."Unfortunately we decided his typing skills weren't up to the job of being secretary and Jackson felt he didn't want the treasurer's job."Adrian Bacon was elected as secretary and Barry Blackwood, a founding footpaths group member, was voted in as treasurer.A full range of walks for the summer was also finalised. New members of any ability are welcome. The cost is just £1 per walk. For more details call Adrian on 01934 834178 or Peter on 832657. Jackson, pictured right with Jackie Fox, is, regrettably, not available for contact.