How well-loved TV star got a pampering session courtesy of an East Yorkshire salon
An East Yorkshire business found itself thrust into the limelight when a TV show came calling to help out one of its stars.
Wagtails of the Wolds was sought out by the BBC team behind Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing, when the programme paid a visit to the county. Bob Mortimer and Paul Whitehouse were in search of wild brown trout at Driffield Beck and travelling with them to Mulberry Whin, site of one of the UK’s most northerly chalk streams, was Bob’s faithful canine companion, Ted.
The spot proved an idyllic spot for the eager anglers, whose experiences were aired on BBC2 on Sunday evening (and can be seen on BBC iPlayer), but viewers also saw the pair slightly distracted by “a bit pongy” Ted. Obsessed by rolling in the mud on the riverbank, the senior pet got himself in a messy state – hence Bob booking him in for a luxurious doggy spa at Wagtails, of Driffield.
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Louisa Wellington, of Wagtails, said she was first contacted by the TV crew in January 2023, and was “beyond excited”, but the original filming schedule for that May had to be cancelled last minute, due to unforeseen circumstances. “While it was disappointing at the time, we completely understood the situation,” she said.
“The team was great in staying in touch and rescheduling, and by the time the filming happened, it was absolutely worth the wait. It was incredibly hard to keep quiet about it, though, we've had so many people asking what was going on, and it was tough not to spill the beans.”
The show saw Louisa being asked by Bob to smell Ted before his treatments. “That moment was hilarious! Ted definitely had that ‘adventure dog’ scent going on. It wasn't awful, but let’s just say, he was due for a proper spa day.
“We tailored his treatments to suit his senior dog status, just like we do for other older clients. We gave him a relaxing blueberry facial to help cleanse and soothe his skin, followed by a mobility mud bath and massage to ease any joint stiffness.
“Plus, a nail trim to keep him comfortable. We then finished with a full groom to get him camera-ready for the rest of the week.”
As canine clients go, Ted was “an absolute star”, according to Louisa. “He was super relaxed and well-behaved. We made sure he felt pampered and comfortable the whole time. Honestly, he was one of the calmest dogs we've had in the salon.
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“The filming took half a day, but it honestly flew by. From the moment the crew arrived, to getting Ted pampered and chatting with Bob, it felt like no time at all. We were all buzzing, we didn't want the day to end—we were having so much fun, and it was such a unique experience.”
“Watching it go live on TV was so surreal. There were a few happy tears. Seeing Ted on screen after all the hard work was such a proud moment.
“The response since has been amazing. We’ve had so much positive feedback, both from regular clients and new people discovering Wagtails for the first time. It's really boosted our profile.”
Louisa said Wagtails had worked with some local celebrity pets but Ted was “definitely the most famous client we’ve had so far” in the grooming salon. “Ted has raised the bar.
“All of our clients are truly VIPs to us. Each dog that comes into Wagtails gets the same level of care, attention, and pampering, and we absolutely love working with every one of them.
“That said, Ted does have the biggest TV presence among our pack. It was a real honour to have him here, but no matter who they are, every dog gets treated like a star at Wagtails.”
Wagtails originally began in Weybridge, Surrey, in 2014 and in 2018, Louisa made the move to Driffield to be closer to family. “So, Wagtails of Weybridge was transported up north and became Wagtails of the Wolds.
“It’s been amazing to continue the business in such a beautiful part of the country, and we’ve truly settled into the local community here. Every dog is unique, and we take the time to understand their specific requirements, whether that’s a special treatment for an older dog like Ted or a playful pampering for a younger pup.”
Louisa works with fellow grooming professional Hannah Carter and members of the family pitch in when it is busy at Wagtails. “My mum, Terri, and my niece, Imogen, help in the salon, especially during peak times, ensuring that everything runs smoothly.
“My partner, Billy, supports me mentally from behind the scenes and helps keep me sane! My dad, David, and sister, Nicola, also provide creative ideas and valuable support in running the business.
“Just like raising children, it truly takes a community to make Wagtails thrive, and I’m incredibly grateful for the love and teamwork that surrounds me every day.” For more information, visit wagtailsofthewolds.co.uk