A 'ONE in a million' bearded dragon has turned heads to be crowned the winner of the News' pet idol competition.

Two year old Bruce beat his furry competitors to claim the coveted 2019 title.

Thrilled owners Daniel Baxter, 14, and his mum Kay Macleod said they didn't think the loveable reptile would have a chance against the tough competition - but say the victory is well deserved.

Kay, who lives at Holehouse Court in Largs, said: "We definitely never expected to win the competition.

"You always expect something furry to win it, but people must have liked seeing something different for a change.

"Sometimes I think people can be a bit scared of him because he is spikey and not your typical pet, but honestly he is the most fabulous animal.

"He is really cute and has his own wee personality, so he is definitely a deserved winner."

Kay says the lovable breed make the perfect pet.

She added: "I would recommend bearded dragons as a pet to everyone if they are all like Bruce.

"We have had him since he was one-year-old and it was actually my mum who bought him for Daniel.

"She had been keen to get one for a while, however we were a bit unsure at first because he was unusual.

"But she ended up buying him for Daniel's birthday and it has turned out to be one of the best gifts ever."

A party to mark Bruce's big win was put on hold until Daniel returned from holiday down south last week.

Kay says that Bruce had been 'feeling down' since his owner went away but added that the pair couldn't wait to be reunited to celebrate the good news.

She said: "Bruce lives in a six-foot cage in Daniel's room and I think he has been feeling a bit depressed because he is used to having him around.

"Daniel's friends love coming over and seeing Bruce as well, he is certainly a talking point - and now he is a local celebrity.

"He dines out on locusts and worms but his favourite food is raspberries. I think we might need to treat him to some of them now he is the Pet Idol champion."