My best friend Max has heart of gold

Name: Max Finest hour: Always keeping our thoughts happy and bright Likes: Being with us 24/ 7, running around, his best friend Ned (the golden labrador who lives across the road) Dislikes: Baths, the cold, and not being allowed to chew things

DEAREST Max — You are so sweet, funny and friendly, and always manage to make me smile whether the weather is rain or sunshine.

You are constantly there for me and you have a big heart of gold. You’re a little bit cheeky sometimes like when you always chew stuff like my favourite hairbrush, dad’s wellies, my flip flops, my brother’ s footballs (we seem to be constantly buying new ones), the garden hose (twice). But you always manage to be innocent until proven guilty!

You are always waiting for us when we come home from school, just sitting at our front door. I don’t know what I would do without you in my life.

You love going for walks with mammy and love visiting the farm with daddy. You also love playing with me outside, giving me kisses and hugs and chasing after the ball while my brothers are practising football.

I remember the day we got you one year ago, when my dad came in with a brand new puppy hidden inside his coat. I really couldn’t get over how cute and cuddly you were, the way you fell fast asleep on my lap and how you were always bounding about with leaps of joy.

I love you so, so much Max that words couldn’t even explain. You’re my best friend and all I can say is thank you, thank you so much Max for all you have done for me so far.

Kate Rice (aged 11), Kilkerley, Dundalk, Co Louth