Show Placings
The Northern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
15th Jul 2018
Judge: Professor S P Dean (Tyrian)
Thoroughly enjoyed my day with the NBTC. My thanks to the Committee for the appointment and the exhibitors for their entry of Borders. I was well looked after all day and I would like to express my gratitude to my Stewards who did an excellent job by keeping focused on their task throughout the day. I was extremely pleased with the overall quality of the dogs across both sexes. For those who left without prize cards do not be too disappointed, I saw only one undershot jaw and no dog was out of place in the show ring. My top winners were all outstanding dogs and there were several others who deserve that label who were placed but did not reach the final accounting. Overall heads are very good but let’s be careful not to breed for too much strength in skull. Ensure we balance what we have with equal strength in muzzle and under-jaw and please lots more beautiful large white teeth. Most dogs had the correct outline, with many good top-lines and neat tails. Coats and pelts were generally very good and do not be afraid to show a Border in that rich, thick ,harsh, double coat they are well known for. Generally conformation was correct, with shoulders and stifles showing acceptable angulation. The straight stifle is quite rare, but equally let’s not over do the angulation of the hind limb as that produces weakness. Short hocks go best with correct stifles. Dogs with a length of leg, drive from hindquarters, tight feet and good ribbing did well today provided they had the typical Border Terrier characteristics we all look for. A few dogs are getting a little long in body for a variety of reasons. Some have their shoulder set forwards on the chest, some lack the well ribbed-back conformation and so appear to have long couplings and some have shorter legs than they ideally need. Much of this was marginal today but they are all points to remember as the breed moves forward. I was pleased with the CC line ups and excited by the quality in some of the youngsters coming through. It would have been nice to reward some of these emerging future champions with higher honours but the quality at the top was too much for relatively immature dogs.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Class Critique
Challenging class of promising youngsters.
Bakewell Agricultural & Horticultural Society Open Show
21st Jul 2018
Judge: Tracey Anscombe (Orangebox)
Thank you for the invitation to judge your border terrier classes. The location is very picture postcard. My two lady stewards were simply wonderful, thank you. I had a lovely entry of quality dogs with some very close decisions Coats were at differing stages which did play its part. I had no bad mouths or kinked tails and all dogs were entire.
Puppy /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Placing Critique
Sweet bitch just six months old who is just changing her coat. Beautiful feminine head with a correct bite of large teeth. Well placed ears which framed her expression. She moved well for her age but just couldn't match 1 in coat and maturity but it is all there and I will watch her progress with interest.
Leeds Championship Dog Show
29th Jul 2018
Judge: Mr Brian Baxter (Beenaben)
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Paignton
4th Aug 2018
Judge: Professor A S Milton
I suspect I shall retire from judging now. I certainly have no intention, when it comes into effect, of paying the Kennel Club to get on their judging lists. I have always assumed, though I may be wrong, that I have been invited to judge because people wanted me to. I have no intention of 'prostituting’ my art by paying money for the privilege. If I may reminisce, I have never sought a judging appointment, indeed in the beginning I had never even thought about judging. Then one day a letter arrived from the secretary of a large open show in Scotland. Would I judge the terrier breeds and the terrier group at their next open show? I have, to this day, no idea who suggested my name. I had never judged before, not even a match or a limited show, I was on no judging list, they didn’t exist in those days, I had never stewarded, and have never done so to this day, I have to this day never attended any hands on or assessment seminar. After my first appointment invitations came at fairly frequent intervals, including two breed clubs, and eventually I received an invitation to judge at a Championship show. However, when I replied, with my judging cv, the committee told me that they couldn't continue with my appointment, as the Kennel Club would not accept the nomination owing to the 'parochial' range of my judging, which had, with one exception, all been in Scotland. Notwithstanding that for example two of the shows had been over 200 miles apart, and from my home to the breed club show in England over 500 miles. Peter Thompson (Thoraldby) and Sybil Churchill came to my rescue and I found myself judging at LKA.
A few thoughts on Border Terriers. Size has always been a problem, right from the beginning of the breed, with there being far too many large dogs, outside the weight standard, and the numbers seem to be getting larger (forgive the pun). I blame the breeders for this. In one class at Paignton, there was only one dog, which I could span. Movement is another problem; the trend at the moment seems to be very narrow hindquarters, with the feet nearly touching. In 1991, I made a video of Crufts with the late R.A. Williams judging. Almost without exception all the dogs are in full coat. (A few years ago there was a pirated video made of this tape). In the book 'About the Border Terrier', Walter Gardner says 'It is difficult to judge Border coats today because so often the dogs are stripped, well nigh skinned'. Two personal gripes, Border should be walked on a loose lead, not strung up, and should stand naturally, I do particularly dislike those exhibitors who are continually fussing with their dogs, moving a foot a cm here, a cm there and the like.
I should like to thank the committee of the Paignton show for inviting me to judge. They were all very helpful, and also the vets at the show who kindly looked after my young puppy which I had, perforce, to bring with me, whilst I was judging.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Placing Critique
Just a baby but looks to have potential. Attractive head with well set ears. Good neck leading to level topline and good tail set. Good front and rear. Coat needed to improve.
The Midland Border Terrier Club Championship Show
5th Aug 2018
Judge: Dogs: Jimmy Gilpin, Bitches: Hilary Gilpin
Bitches :- Thank you to the committee for the very kind invitation to judge the bitches at your always sunny show, yes it was very hot but all dogs were underneath the gazebo when not being assessed. Thank you to all who exhibited in the hot afternoon sun, we all coped very well.
I've had BT's since 1978 and started showing in 1986, I have meet quite a few friends along the way and judged many BT's, today I found some lovely exhibits as you always do, the downside was so many other dogs really had poor movement both front and rear. Handlers must watch their dogs as bad movement is a no no for me. Coats were mainly good, some with no coat at all and were penalised accordingly. In all the bitches there was only one undershot mouth.
I totally agreed with the dog judge for best in show, the dog stood out for us both, in movement, confirmation and type. Judge Hilary Gilpin
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Placing Critique
Another lovely feminine puppy, light red with a coat of good texture, well laid back shoulders and another one who moved correctly.
Maiden - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Placing Critique
2nd in minor puppy
Bournemouth Canine Association
13th Aug 2018
Judge: Mrs Eileen Cole (Towden)
I would like to thank Bournemouth Canine Association for inviting me to judge the Border Terriers and their hospitality on arrival and to my very efficient stewards. I would also like to thank the exhibitors for entering their dogs and giving me the honour of going over them, most were in top condition and movement on the whole was good, coats varied quite a lot and there were a couple of level bite teeth, but I was very pleased with my final line up.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Placing Critique
7mth red grizzle bitch sweet feminine head neat dark ears and keen expression narrow front nice length in body level topline and clean underline well balanced all round in good coat and pelt moved well both ways spanned easy.
Novice - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Welsh Kennel Club
18th Aug 2018
Judge: Mr. David Maggs (Chrydas)
I would like to thank The Welsh Kennel Club for inviting me to judge Borders at their show when the original judge Mr Bill Brown-Cole dropped out through illness, it is 13 years since I judged this show last and I must say that I enjoyed it just as much as the first time. The quality throughout was excellent, I found no bad mouths , movement was fine except for a few who were a little bit loose in front, but coats were very varied.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Placing Critique
8 month red bitch, same comments as 1 but movement not as good.
The Scottish Kennel Club
25th Aug 2018
Judge: Mr. Ian Higham (Comberdown)
What a privilege it was to judge my breed again at the Scottish Kennel Club. I am very grateful for the invite.
I would really like to thank all of those who exhibited their dogs under me and for putting trust in my opinion and my integrity. I would also like to thank my very capable stewards Kate Scott and Lindsay O’Neill, who were very confident, efficient and jovial on the day.
My general findings were that the breed is showing a good in-depth quality. Movement is still a bit erratic here and there as one would expect, but I saw plenty of good borders on the day. However, I did notice that thickness of skin was not as evident as in the past and I honestly only found a few really good thick pelts. I found one dog had a very slight deformity near the very end of its tail. I had one or two level bites and one that obviously had recently had a tooth come out and its owner, very honestly, informed me of what had happened. None of these dogs were penalised in any way re mouths. Some exhibits were tallish but spannable, however, there were some that were two heavy in chest and had a rounder shape rib rather than the correct ‘v’ or heart shape.
As usual I was looking for borders that fulfilled the type points as laid out in our standard, combined with correct physical construction to be able to cover the ground well as they would have had to when our standard was written all those years ago.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Leicester City Canine Society Open Show
27th Aug 2018
Judge: Mr R Wright (Borderexpress)
Many thanks to the officers and committee of Leicester City Canine Society for inviting me to judge at their open show and to the exhibitors supporting my entry, also to my two very efficient stewards on the day
Puppy /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
City of Birmingham
1st Sep 2018
Judge: Mr Dave Matthews (Tojamatt)
Many thanks to City of Birmingham Canine Society for giving me the opportunity to judge this show , my first Championship show, may I also thank every exhibitor who entered the show ,and also my steward Alan Tomlinson for his help.
I enjoyed my day ,I was very pleased with the entry,I had some difficult decisions to make on the day .
The ring was of a good size and that gave the exibits the chance to get into there stride,front movement on some exibits was a little loose ,but I had some real good movers, a few low set tails are creeping in to the breed ,Iwas pleased with the condition and presentation of the exhibits ,I found some really good pelts and coats, I am pleased to say the the day passed without a cross word from any of the exibits ,I was pleased with heads and expression , some foreign expressions had been appearing in recent years.
May I again thank you all for the chance to go over your dogs , and for the way you accepted my decisions .
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Richmond Championship Show
8th Sep 2018
Judge: Mrs Patsy Hollings (Gunalt)
As always at this show, everything runs smoothly and hospitality is first rate. Thank you. I really enjoyed this appointment with many quality Borders to choose from.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
The London & Home Counties Terrier Club
9th Sep 2018
Judge: Ms Tina Jones (Otterholme)
Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Darlington Championship Show
14th Sep 2018
Judge: Mr Chris Wallace (Hobholt)
My thanks to Darlington Dog Show Society for the opportunity to judge my first Championship Show and to the exhibitors for bringing your Borders’. My stewards John and Carol were very helpful and kept the ring well organised. Despite feeling somewhat nervous before judging started I thoroughly enjoyed the day and thank the exhibitors for accepting my decisions.
Our standard mentions moderate 4 times in its current form, it also provides guidance on size (weight) and body (spanning). I mention these points as there were a surprising number of Borders’ that were impossible to span, were too deep in chest, big, heavy and exaggerated in a number of areas. Movement became a key criteria when placing my Borders along with being moderate and not exaggerated. A lot of Borders were “Knitting” in front movement or flicking their wrists outwards, probably best described as erratic compared to the Borders that moved well. Mouths were good overall, one chipped tooth which was of no consequence. Coats and pelts were excellent overall, and the dogs were complete.
Overall, we have a number of promising youngsters coming through and it’s unfortunate judges only have two “tickets” to hand out.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Placing Critique
Light Grizzle, 8 month, Moderate otter head, keen expression. Liked her front and overall construction, good length of back and level topline. Good coat and easy span. Flat rib and moved very well, straight and true front and rear. Handler needs to increase his pace to ensure he gets the best out of this ones movement.
Southern Border Terrier Club Open Show
16th Sep 2018
Judge: Mr Julien Barney (Romaunt)
A big thank you to the committee for giving me the opportunity to judge at this well run show. A super sporting atmosphere around the ring on a very pleasant sunny autumn afternoon.
My general comments would be about heads and the lack of that typical Otter look with a good skull and a powerful muzzle required to do their job. Front movement in some wasn’t good being tied in front and I wonder how well they would be able to follow a horse for a good days hunting. Plus size seemed to be an issue with some being well up to the limit.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Placing Critique
Little more sturdy all through. Good front and bone and feet, in super harsh coat. Well ribbed into a good loin and a well constructed rear. Maybe like a little more sparkle on the day.
Novice - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Driffield Championship Show
22nd Sep 2018
Judge: Mr Paul Wilkinson
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Placing Critique
Nice head, keen expression, a shade long in loin, good quarters, moved well in rear just needs to settle in front
South Wales Kennel Association
5th Oct 2018
Judge: Mr Peter Bakewell
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Placing Critique
feminine head, keen expression, good ears, nice neck and forequarters, good hindquarters, moved well, good outline and overall balance.
Beckenham Canine Association Open Show
7th Oct 2018
Judge: Mrs C E Sansom (Tarkaswell)
My thanks to the officers and committee of the Beckenham Canine Association for inviting me to judge at their open show and the exhibitors for their lovely quality entry. My steward Debbie Sims was very efficient and we were fortunate to have a lovely large ring which gave the dogs the opportunity to really move.
Puppy /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Class Critique
A super class of quality youngsters.
Grantham & District Canine Society Open Show
13th Oct 2018
Judge: Mr R Brewster (Breckgreen / Stowthorney)
I would like to thank the committee of Grantham and District CS for inviting me to judge at their Open Show on 13th October 20018. I would also like to thank the exhibitors for entering under me. I had a quality entry of beautiful dogs.
Best Puppy
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Puppy /
First Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Placing Critique
10-month-old grizzle and tan bitch of nice size. Lovely otter head with correct scissor bite. Nice reach of neck into well laid shoulders. Nice length of rib. In good jacket with thick pelt. Moved well. BP
The Birmingham & District Gundog & Terrier Club
20th Oct 2018
Judge: Mrs Jill Stevens (Cobstoneway)
I would like to thank the committee for giving me the honour of judging at this lovely show, and for the hospitality shown on the day. Thank you also to my 2 very efficient stewards, Lesley and Judith, but most of all I would like to thank all the exhibitors who gave me such a lovely entry of quality dogs which were a pleasure to go over. I found no bad mouths, no kinked tails, and all the dogs were entire. Coats were at various stages, as to be expected, but none of the exhibits were without the correct double coat needed by a working terrier.
Puppy /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Junior /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Midland Counties Canine Society
27th Oct 2018
Judge: Mrs. Margaret Bailey (Grindelvald)
IT WAS AN HONOUR TO JUDGE THE MIDLAND COUNTIES CS ON THEIR 50TH ANNIVERSARY.
ALSO MANY THANKS TO THE EXHIBITORS FOR ENTERING THEIR DOGS UNDER ME & MY STEWARDS KEPT THE RING RUNNING SMOOTHLY, WITH SUCH AN EXCELLENT ENTRY.
ALL DOGS WERE ENTIRE, 1 OR 2 DISAPPOINTING MOUTHS. I’M AMAZED THE AMOUNT OF TIT-BITS SOME OF THE EXHIBITORS GAVE THEIR DOGS, ESPECIALLY ON THE TABLE MOST WERE BEING REWARDED FOR BAD BEHAVIOUR, THE WORSE THE DOG BEHAVIED THE MORE FOOD THEY GOT. I FOUND SOME OF THEM ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO EXAMINE, MAYBE MORE RING CRAFT CLASSES WOULD HELP!
IT IS VERY PROMISING TO SEE SOME QUAILITY PUPPIES COMING THROUGH. STILL A FEW DODGY FRONTS. OVERALL THE QUALITY IS IMPROVING. PLEASED TO SEE NO AGGRESIVE BEHAVIOUR IN THE BREED, IN OR OUT OF THE RINGTODAY.
NICE TO SEE MY BOB WINNER WENT ON TO WIN THE TERRIER GROUP. I UNDERSTAND FROM THE OWNER THIS WAS HIS LAST SHOW AS THE DOG IS BEING RETIRED FROM SHOWING .A DELIGHT TO JUDGE HIM.
IT WAS A REAL PLEASURE TO JUDGE ALLTHE DOGS WHO CAME UNDER ME.
Puppy - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Huntingdonshire CS Open Show
10th Nov 2018
Judge: Mr R Eastall (Daedal0
Puppy /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
East Anglia Border Terrier Club Open Show
25th Nov 2018
Judge: Mr Colin Girling (Benattivo)
Many thanks for the invitation to judge and for the warm welcome and support received on the day, special mention to my lead steward Robert Brewster. I was pleased that I received such large minor puppy entries in both dogs and bitches; it was lovely to see the youngsters and so many new and enthusiastic exhibitors too. The show represented a first outing for some and I hope the day was enjoyable for both four and two legged beginners. Overall the exhibits were well turned out and in good condition with only a few slightly overweight and some dirty or stained teeth; coats were at both ends of the scale. I really did feel the show had a good sporting atmosphere throughout the day and I thank all those who attended for making it a thoroughly enjoyable experience.
Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Placing Critique
Good feminine head and expression with well placed ears, good reach of neck with ribs carried well back to give her the length of body and strength of loin to edge the class. Her rear angulation and drive also helped.
Class Critique
The beautiful quality puppies also showed up in this class making my job difficult but fun.
Novice - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Placing Critique
See puppy class for critique
Burton On Trent Kennel Association Open Show
2nd Dec 2018
Judge: Lynne Greenhill (Arudu)
Junior /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Post Graduate /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Boston & District Canine Society
6th Jan 2019
Judge: Mrs Beverley Barber (Alcumlow)
Thank you to all exhibitors who entered their dogs for me to judge. Thank you to Boston Show Society for inviting me to judge and putting on a very well organised event. Running these events is hard work and takes a lot of organising. The breed has changed a lot in the thirty years I have owned and been part of. Heads are very varied and lack strength under the eye so giving a weaker muzzle and too many domed skulls. Good movement is hard to find too many borders just mark time. Coats were varied but it is a difficult time of the year and I am not a fan of the over tidied coat or worrying about perfect presentation but a little attention to detail helps. A lot of long nails and excess hair on the feet, and a lot of long hair left on sides of the head and muzzles. My judging is based on good shape and conformation in accordance with the breed standard and of course good movement that allows the dog to cover the ground with ease. No animal is perfect and we all judge in our own way but I enjoyed today's challenge.
Best Puppy
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Placing Critique
Liked this grizzle puppy. All round quality youngster. Excellent head with correct bite and strength to muzzle, dark expressive eyes. Very well put together with good front and rear angulation standing on well shaped feet with thick pads. Came together on the move beautifully. Very pleased to award her best puppy bitch and Best Puppy
Junior - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Manchester Championship Show
18th Jan 2019
Judge: Mrs. Kathy Newsome (Kighill)
My first judging appointment at a Championship show and what a lovely day I had. Firstly I would like to thank the Manchester Dog Society for inviting me to judge their show, and also to all the exhibitors for showing their support.
I had a lovely selection of dogs and I was very pleased with the quality that came before me. All dogs were entire and mouths were good. Some dogs could have done with being tidied up a little more.
Junior - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Placing Critique
Good otter head, full coat with a good thick pelt, narrow front and good reach of neck. Moved well
Yorkshire, Lancashire & Cheshire Border Terrier Club Open Show
26th Jan 2019
Judge: Mr Bob Blackley (Vaevictus)
It was an honour and pleasure to Judge at this great club show, I would like to thank the officers and committee for inviting me, also a big thank you to all the exhibitors, my entry was fantastic full of quality, I’m sorry but some really good dogs were not in the top honours today. I thought the bitches in general were of better quality than the dogs which is good for the breed, and in the dogs, I also noticed some exhibits were lacking coat, a sign of Crufts approaching, but in general they were good.
Junior - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Isle of Eley CS Open Show
2nd Feb 2019
Judge: Jane Eyeington (Meadowdale)
Thank you for a lovely entry, I was spoilt for choice, super dogs
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Placing Critique
13 month old bitch, showing her stubborn streak today, so not showing herself off as she could, but she has a lovely outline racy and well put together. Her well balanced head, has good width to the backskull and strong short foreface. Ribs are carried well back and easily spanned with a firm topline. Good angulation fore and aft. Moving true, free and easy
West Midland Terrier Society Open Show
9th Feb 2019
Judge: Anne Speake
I would like to thank the officers and committee for their invitation to judge at the show. The hospitality received was much appreciated, and the day was one I really enjoyed. It was lovely to see such a good entry for the show as a whole, my thanks to my two capable stewards, who kept things moving along nicely. Thanks also to the exhibitors who did me the honour and privilege of going over their dogs and accepting my decisions in a sporting manner. All exhibits were of good quality and fit for purpose. As to be expected at this time of year, coats were at various stages. I was delighted with my entry.
Junior - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Placing Critique
13 mth old grizzle tan, another quality exhibit, unfortunate to come up against winner today. Good head, narrow front. With a good angulations front and rear, with strong hindquarters, moved well and easily spanned. Good thick pelt but short of coat today. These two could easily changes places on another day.
The Midland Border Terrier Club Open Show
10th Feb 2019
Judge: Mrs Margaret Davies (Glenorchy)
I would firstly like to thank the Club for giving me the opportunity to judge their February Open Show, which I thoroughly enjoyed. Also thank you to my very efficient stewards Julie Price ad Jem Thomas and by no means least my grateful thanks to all the exhibitors for a super entry.
A few exhibits were wide in front, one or two I couldn't span, movement left a lot to be desired and some could have done with a little more tidying up.
Junior - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Placing Critique
grizze bitch with lovely expression, nice head. Moved well but a little lacking in coat today.
Sutton Coldfield & District CA Open Show
23rd Feb 2019
Judge: Mr Rob Jones
Junior /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Cheltenham & District Canine Society Open Show
24th Feb 2019
Judge: Mrs Sue Baxter (Mysulan/Sulan)
My thanks go to the committee for their invitation to judge Borders and the hospitality received on the day , both were much appreciated. My steward Jean Walker helped keep things on track , thank you . I am grateful for the sporting way in which my decisions were accepted and thanks go to all the exhibitors who gave me entries and allowed me the pleasure of going over their dogs .
In general , one or 2 exhibits may have been carrying a little too much “condition” and benefit from perhaps a better work to calorie ratio. Feet were good and all dogs appeared to be intact .Bites all seemed correct at this stage and no sign of any kinked tails.
Junior /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
Placing Critique
an eager grizzle bitch of a slightly larger stamp. Head and expression pleasing , movement was good once she steadied . A little bit short of coat today. Pelt was good and another day could see these two bitches change places.
Wath West & District Canine Society Open Show
2nd Mar 2019
Judge: Tracy Butler (Ycart)
Junior /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Placing Critique
Grizzle bitch,stronger and heavier right through than one,carrying a touch to much weight for me,pleasing head and expression,not the coat of one,but coreect harsh coat and good pelt,moves well
East Anglia Border Terrier Club Championship Show
7th Apr 2019
Judge: Mrs. Nancy Hogg (Raeburnfoot)
I would like to express my thanks to the officers, committee and members for the invitation to judge their championship show. I enjoyed it very much. Special thanks go to my two very able stewards who kept everything running smoothly for me. I appreciated it.
There was a good selection of quality dogs and bitches for me to pick from. Coats on the whole were pleasing. As was size. Temperament too apart from one blip. Some with winter noses, possibly more than I have noticed before. A few with domed skulls which makes for an untypical head. I felt that the depth of quality in the bitch classes outweighed the dogs. Both the puppy bitch classes were a joy. Some lovely pups having to go cardless. Its very encouraging and surely bodes well for the breed.
I was very happy with my main winners. It was a pleasure to award them their honours.
Thank you EABTC.
Junior - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Wellingborough and DCS Open Show
13th Apr 2019
Judge: Mr R Brewster (Breckgreen / Stowthorney)
I would like to thank the committee of Wellingborough & District CS for inviting me to judge at their show also thanks to my steward for the day. I would also like to thank the exhibitors for entering under me with their beautiful dogs.
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG3, Otterwood Diodem JW
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Placing Critique
Grizzle & Tan 16-month-old bitch. Lovely otter head with neat ears and a keen expression. Correct dentition. Good in rib and spanned well. She was in very good coat. Pleasing top-line finished off with good tail set. Moved well. Pleased to award her Best of Breed. She later went on to Terrier Group 3
Yorkshire, Lancashire & Cheshire Border Terrier Club Open Show
20th Apr 2019
Judge: Mr Graham Richardson (Staynorwood)
I would like to thank the Officers and Committee for inviting me to judge their Open Show and also the sporting way in which the exhibitors accepted my decisions. Also thank you to my stewards Anna Duxbury and Bridget Singh for keeping the ring moving smoothly throughout the day. Most exhibits were shown in a fit condition although there were one or two that were a little over weight and nervous on the day.
Junior - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Derby CS Open Show
21st Apr 2019
Judge: Becky Johnson (Downstream)
Yearling /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Dunstable & DCS Open Show
22nd Apr 2019
Judge: Mandy Holmes (Bimandi)
Junior /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Birmingham & District Gundog and Terrier Club Open Show
27th Apr 2019
Judge: Dogs Angela Read, Bitches Bridget Singh
Junior - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
West of England Ladies' Kennel Society
28th Apr 2019
Judge: Mrs L A Crawley
Junior - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Placing Critique
Really liked this bitch, did consider for rcc but still needs a bit more maturity, beautiful head and expression, correct front assembly, well made body, good for length of neck and topline, a shade big for me but one of the few who excelled in movement, shown in great coat.
National Dog Show
11th May 2019
Judge: Mrs Anne Heathcote (Saxheath)
I would like to thank the Society for giving me the opportunity to judge our breed for the first time at their 160th Anniversary show and for their hospitality. I was able to complete the judging in good time thanks to my two excellent Stewards Steph and Alan.
The quality of the entry was pleasing overall but one or two could have benefited from tidying , it is a show and you owe it to your dog to present them well , and I was unable to span a few . However , my main winners were for me the correct size and in some of the classes the decisions were very close.
Thank you for accepting my decisions so gracefully.
Junior - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Coventry & DKA Open Show
19th May 2019
Judge: Mr B Blunden (Licassa)
Junior /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
The Southern Counties Canine Assocation
1st Jun 2019
Judge: Miss J Singh (Vandamere)
I was a delighted to receive the invitation to judge at this friendly and well run show The weather was glorious and there was a nice atmosphere around the ring.
I thoroughly enjoyed my day as I had some quality dogs to go over and this was reflected on the impressive results in the Group placings . I was thrilled to learn that the Best of Breed was awarded Terrier Group 1, my bitch CC winner was awarded Terrier Junior Group 2, the puppy gained Puppy Terrier Group 3 and the veteran was awarded Veteran Terrier Group 3. Is this a new record for group placings at one show for the breed?
The day was kept running smoothly by my two stewards Alan McKenzie and Sue Hann,
I was concerned about the number of exhibits with misplaced teeth. In total I found five exhibits each with a misplaced tooth, also two kinked tails and one exhibit with one testicle. Some exhibits were lacking in muscle tone and condition.
Junior - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Blackpool & District Canine Society
23rd Jun 2019
Judge: Mr S A Mcpherson
My thanks go to Blackpool & District Canine Society for the invitation to judge their show, my very efficient stewards and to the exhibitors for their wonderful entry, topping the Terrier Group by quite a margin!
It was a good quality entry, all the way through, especially in the younger classes, Junior bitch being quite exceptional, which bodes well, for the future!
I thought the line ups, for the CCs, were excellent, all, for me, fitting the Standard well, good for size, lithe bodied, easily spanned and with a good length of stride.
Only a very few were difficult to span.
As for points of concern, a number with very deep stops, often with a rounder eye, which gives a rather untypical expression, more reminiscent of the Asian short clawed Otter, rather than the English River Otter.
Forehand construction, as ever, is the main area for concern, correct shoulder and upper arm being the most difficult thing to breed for and attain. A correct forehand is a joy to watch, on the move, especially if they have the rear angulation to match, giving totally balanced, efficient, ground covering movement, but get it wrong and the movement is a bit like a “ bike with square wheels! “ in profile! I’m well aware it’s possible to win, at the highest levels, with the latter, but it doesn’t make it correct, when the Standard asks for the soundness to follow a horse, which, obviously, would require a good length of stride.
A few dogs weren’t too keen on the bandage on my hand, covering up the aftermath of an unfortunate trip up, on gravel, none were unduly penalised.
Junior - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Class Critique
One of the best classes I have ever judged! Think I shortlisted 8, any of whom I would have been more than happy to award a first prize to on another day!
Windsor Championship Show
27th Jun 2019
Judge: Mrs Jena Tuck (Nettleby)
My thanks to the Society for inviting me, to my two very able stewards who kept everything moving smoothly, and to the exhibitors for giving me the privilege of going over their dogs. I was delighted by my winners, and by the overall quality of the entry.
Junior - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
East of England Agricultural Society Open Show
4th Jul 2019
Judge: Mrs V Atkinson (Raedwulf)
I so much enjoyed my day judging the inaugural Open Show. Thank you to Mrs Pat Dufty and the Committee for inviting me to judge, it was an honour. I was assisted expertly by the wonderful Avis and Preston Haffenden to whom I am very grateful. Thank you most of all to my Exhibitors who allowed me the privilege of going over their dogs and for the sporting manner in which my decisions were taken.
Junior /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Placing Critique
Another 17 month old grizzle and tan bitch. Really lovely otter head with big teeth and correct bite. This bitch looked big until I got my hands on her. Presented with plenty of coat and a loose thick pelt, she was easily spanned with narrow rib, strong loin and good rear.
Moved with efficiency she carried her top line but I preferred the size of my winner in this class.
Heckington & DAS Open Show
27th Jul 2019
Judge: Mr Robin Searle
Graduate /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Paignton Championship Show
3rd Aug 2019
Judge: Mr. Mark Ord (Marnadee)
Thank you all who entered today some classes more difficult than others & some that could change places on a different day. For me it is all about judging the dog on the day and how it performs. I am sad to say I found many of the males difficult to span, I was not impressed with a lot of the heads, the standard is specific on what it requires. Tails I found better than previously. A lot of dogs I thought good on the stack fell apart in front movement. Bitches for me had more depth of quality and more uniform in size, happy to say I could span most of them. I have been criticised before as have others for using the term racy when the breed standard only uses the term with regard to quarters but I also interpret the statement “able to follow a horse” to mean a dog needs to be racy. Nothing heavy & broad will be capable of this task. Vital to remember what the breed was bred to do. Borders had the biggest entry in Terriers today by a long shot & I thank you all for giving me the privilege to handle your dogs.
I was delighted with my top winners today, I was informed my doc C.C, res C.C. & best puppy dog were all related. My bitch C.C. I did well as a puppy at an open show and is the daughter of the bitch I gave the C.C. last time i judged the breed.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Placing Critique
took my eye on first run around and was not disappointed when I went over her. Good otter head & correct in jaw with strong bite, moderate length of neck to good shoulder & upper arm, has correct body proportions, deep & narrow with ribs carried well back, strong loin, tail well set & carried on move, neat feet, in harsh jacket with depth of undercoat, lovely movement in profile & sound fore & aft
Bournemouth Championship Show
10th Aug 2019
Judge: Mr Alan Small
It was a bit blustery to say the least down at Pikes Farm, with high winds throughout the day. A good crowd round the ring and a pleasant atmosphere prevailed. It was nice to see so many old friends.
Thanks to Officers & Committee of Bournemouth C.A. For the invite, to my Stewards for looking after the Ring & to the exhibitors for such a lovely entry. I enjoyed your Border Terries, thanks for coming.
Yearling - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
City of Birmingham
31st Aug 2019
Judge: Mr Dan Ericsson (Sweden)
It is always a pleasure to judge Border Terriers and this was no exception. Many thanks for a decent entry which, however, was marred by quite a number of absentees.
There has always been diversity in the breed, but I felt this was even more obvious this time than on previous occasions when I have judged Borders in the UK. Many dogs were well up to size making them impossible to span. I also felt that heads varied more than I would have liked with plenty of large ears and long weak muzzles, often also falling away under the eyes. Temperaments, as one would expect, were excellent and so were coats and pelts on the whole. Grateful thanks for the sporting manner in which my placings were accepted, and also to my stewards.
Graduate - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
The Southern Border Terrier Club Open Show
15th Sep 2019
Judge: Mrs Helen Bakewell (Norwelston)
Thank you to the committee and exhibitors for such a lovely day. Overall the quality was good, a lot of nice breed types, good feet, mouths, and was able to span most on the day.
Yearling - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Placing Critique
Nice head and eye, good mouth, neck, shoulder, and front. Longer cast body, good rear, coat and moved well.
Driffield Championship Show
21st Sep 2019
Judge: Mr David Shields (Wilholme)
Yearling - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Placing Critique
Slightly bigger framed bitch but is still well balanced and keeps a very feminine outlook and spans easily. Lovely head with the best of expressions and correct eye shape. Another who scores in front assembly, good body, pleasing topline and tailset and good strength of quarters. Moved well both fore and aft.
The Sporting Terrier Association of Yorkshire Open Show
10th Nov 2019
Judge: Anna Duxbury (Ridgebow)
I would very much like to thank the Officers and committee for inviting me to judge their show today. My thanks also to Colin my ring steward. Many thanks to all the exhibitors for taking the time to show under me and accepting my decisions so sportingly. All mouths were good and all male dogs were entire.
Post Graduate /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
The East Anglia Border Terrier Club Open Show
17th Nov 2019
Judge: Mrs Jenny Miller (Feorlig)
I must thank the officers and committee for allowing me to judge their Club Open show which was a great honour and which I really enjoyed. The hospitality and the friendly atmosphere made for a nice show and the quality of the dogs was exceptional. I must thank the Club for the lovely gift and Jan Hollingsbee for the flowers which are still alive and looking good. I must also thank my steward Julie Green who gave up her entry to steward for me.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Burton-on-Trent Kennel Association Open Show
1st Dec 2019
Judge: Mrs Mandy Kenna (Cynetkoy)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Post Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Placing Critique
Smart red grizzle, lovely head and muzzle, good dentition, good level top line and rear angulation, moved true, well balanced throughout although could benefit from loosing a few pounds. BOB
Ladies Kennel Association
14th Dec 2019
Judge: Mr Mark Lowry (Ravenside)
I would first like to thank all the exhibitors for a lovely entry, and for making the effort to travel to the N.E.C on a dark winter’s morning. There was a variation in breed type to a degree, which is always the case, but I was very happy with both my final lineups and only wish I could hand out more awards.
Yearling - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Manchester Championship Show
18th Jan 2020
Judge: Mrs Jill Stevens (Cobstoneway)
Thank you to the Committee for inviting me to judge at this level for the first time, and also to my very efficient ring steward who kept things running smoothly. I had a lovely day and felt it was a great honour and responsibility. I really appreciated each and every entry, and had some lovely exhibits to go over, the depth of quality in some classes meaning that some nice dogs went cardless. Coats were understandably at different stages, and although this has no bearing on the construction of the dog, a good coat does complete the picture of what is essentially a working terrier.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Placing Critique
Nice sized grizzle and tan who has a lovely feminine head with short, strong muzzle and good bite. She has a straight, narrow front with elegant neck into well laid back shoulders, and is ribbed well back. She spans easily, has a good topline and tailset, and correct body depth. Her coat is harsh, her pelt is loose, and she moves out well.
Yorkshire, Lancashire & Cheshire Border Terrier Club Open Show
25th Jan 2020
Judge: Ms. Suzanne Coldham (Annesuz)
I would like to thank the Officers and Committee for their very warm welcome and hospitality, and the exhibitors for their entries and generous applause for the winners. There was a fabulous atmosphere throughout the day which made it a real pleasure.
Having last had my hands on the breed at this level in October 2017 I am concerned about just how narrow some of the dogs are. Whilst the breed standard calls for the body to be ‘deep, narrow, and fairly long’ it should not be taken to the point of exaggeration. That being said my winners are very pleasing, well balanced specimens without recourse to any exaggeration and in my opinion fit for the original purpose of a Border Terrier.
Limit - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Placing Critique
Another very nice grizzle bitch, good head and expression, correct front, tight feet, rib narrow, long and spannable. Excellent harsh coat and thick pelt. She kept her topline standing and moving. She did not move quite so positively as the winner today.
Isle of Ely CA Open Show
1st Feb 2020
Judge: Sharon Ashdown (Chateaunewf)
Reserve Best Of Breed
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Open /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
The Midland Border Terrier Club Open Show
9th Feb 2020
Judge: Mrs. Carolyn Richardson (Staynorwood)
I would like to thank Midland Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge and to thank my Stewards Pete Armstrong and Sue Baxter. Unfortunately, the entry was somewhat reduced due to the awful storm conditions keeping many at home, but I was pleased with the quaity of dogs present for me to go over and very happy with my winners.
Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Placing Critique
Smart bitch with typical otter head. Strong jaw and good earset. Nice reach of neck into good shoulders. Flat rib. Length of back ok, strong loin enabling correct movement. Correct double coat with loose pelt. Moved well.
Matlock & DCS Open Show
16th Feb 2020
Judge: Mr Richard Kinsey (Kitarn)
Reserve Best Of Breed
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Newark & DCS Open Show
22nd Feb 2020
Judge: David Lee (Socksdown)
Firstly, I thank the Society’s Officers and Committee for the invitation to judge some Lovely Terrier Breeds including both The Terrier and Puppy Terrier Groups at this very well organised show and the superb hospitality. Furthermore, I Thank All the Exhibitors for supporting the Society, for supporting Your Breeds and for giving me a wonderful entry . Finally, I thank my two ring stewards that kept things so well organised and running smoothly.
Open /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Cheltenham & DCS Open Show
23rd Feb 2020
Judge: Mr Tony Allcock MBE (Sleepyhollow)
Open /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Wath, West Malton & District CS Open Show
29th Feb 2020
Judge: Mr R Mann (Lynsett)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Retford & DCS Premier Show
15th Mar 2020
Judge: Paul Eardley (Sherex)
Open /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
The Midland Border Terrier Club 2020 Championship Show
24th Sep 2021
Judge: (Dogs) Anne Gregory (Remony) (Bitches) Liz Wright (Totherend)
DOGS:
A most enjoyable day judging dogs at this show and I would like to thank the Club for inviting me to do so. Thanks also to my two stewards, John and John, who kept things moving along in a professional and efficient manner. Thanks also to the exhibitors for their support and allowing me the privilege of going over their dogs.
Mouths, on the whole, were good and I found only one suspect mouth. There were plenty of typical otter heads but evidence also of stops that were too deep and muzzles that were too short, which is not typical of an otter head.
Movement in some dogs was less than desirable with a few crossing in front, toeing in or flicking wrists. Rear movement was somewhat better but side movement showed some dogs short stepping. I also found some flat, slack feet and loose pasterns, which could well have been improved with proper exercise, and some feet could have been tidied up to better effect.
Generally coats and pelts were harsh and thick but, in some classes, lack of coat was the deciding factor in final placements.
My main concern today was size and weight. Some dogs were very difficult to span, were too heavy and did not come to hand well. This must be addressed to ensure Borders remain fit for the purpose they were intended.
I was pleased with my final line-up and my co judge and I whole heartedly agreed when it came to the final awards.
BITCHES:
My thanks to the Midland Border Terrier Club for offering this my first judging appointment at championship level. I had a really enjoyable day and must thank exhibitors for their wonderful entry and allowing me the opportunity to go over their dogs. Huge thanks also to my two stewards, John & John, who kept everything running smoothly.
I was really pleased with the quality of exhibits, unfortunately this meant some good dogs went unplaced.
Coats were at various stages, all acceptable, but I personally prefer more than less. Some of the exhibits would have benefitted from a tidy up, especially feet. Front movement could have been better, a few upright shoulders and over-angulated rear ends. Overall size was OK, but a few were over weight which made them unspannable.
Really pleased with my final line up and final awards.
Limit - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
The Northern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
9th Oct 2021
Judge: Mr Jimmy Gilpin (Otterbobs)
I feel honoured to have been elected by the members to have judged their clubs 75 year show, and can I thank Alan and Graham for keeping things running so smoothly for me, and can I especially thank the committee for lunch that they provided and also Mr J Whalton for looking after me and my wife, I am not going to rant on about this and that but where have all the heads and tail sets gone ?
Mid Limit - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
The Border Terrier Club Championship Show
17th Oct 2021
Judge: Mrs Nancy Hogg (Raeburnfoot)
It was an honour to judge my favourite show. Many thanks must go to all who made it run so smoothly. Special thanks go to Janice Johnson and Judy Carr for their stewarding. So helpful.
Had some lovely dogs to go over. Temperaments were good. Just a couple of grumbles. A few shown with no coat and placings reflected this. Bites were good. Some teeth larger than others. Front movement in particular let some down. I did find more than a few which were difficult to span. Needs watching.
Mid Limit - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Championship Show
13th Nov 2021
Judge: Mr M Ord
Massive Thank You to The Officers & Committee for inviting me to judge your Championship Show today. This club I was a member of in the formative years and have fond memories of the very first Championship Show where I was an exhibitor. It is good to see a club go from strength to strength and the committee worked very hard to put on this event in what has been difficult times to plan ahead. Thank you everyone who entered today and I was honoured with an entry of 150 Dogs, 192 Entries & 0 NFCs. Like every show absentees were inevitable but I hope those present today took my decisions sportingly.
A few general observations on todays entry which are my thoughts and because I care so much for this lovely breed. Driving to the venue today was a perfect way to view the countryside where this breed was developed and all could see the rough terrain they would need to work in. It is essential you judge a breed with the work they were bred to do foremost in your mind and learn why they are built the way they were and why the breed standard exists. It is a dog show and we now want to see them clean, healthy and well presented but I was sad to see today several exhibits with very clear evidence of scissor work on the coats and not just on tidying feet etc. Please stop this trend NOW. Several were scissored from hip to hock, no need to do this & does nothing to enhance the dog. Good otter heads were not in abundance today and I witnessed a lot of fly away ears. We have always witnessed the odd one but today quite a number could be seen when the dog was in action & not always on youngsters either.
Coats as always were in various stages today but you must judge the dog on the day and find evidence of the correct texture and undercoat which is vital to stop the working dog getting wet through to the skin. Mouths were very good today as where tails which have thankfully improved greatly. Some exhibits in my opinion had lovely conformation however where far too big and long in leg. I though ribs were good with only a few that would be unable to be spanned with the average size hands. I did find today the bitches were more uniform for size so just need to work on the males not becoming big, leggy & heavy.
Mid Limit - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Coventry Ladies’ Kennel Society Open Show
1st Jan 2022
Judge: David Bell (Balintyne)
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Manchester Championship Show
20th Jan 2022
Judge: Mr Stuart Plane
What a weekend it proved to be for Border Terriers
Limit - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Wath and West Melton Canine Society Open Show
5th Mar 2022
Judge: Mark Atkinson (Raedwulf)
Open /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Open Show
5th Jun 2022
Judge: Mrs Norma Ellis (Normbar)
I’d like the thank the Committee and the Exhibitors for making this a most pleasurable show to Judge. Good sportsmanship prevailed and some good dogs to go over. Thankyou to the Ladies in the kitchen who looked after me making sure we were supplied with excellent food and plenty of it …
Reserve Best Bitch
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Limit - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Placing Critique
most appealing head and expression presented in good form, best of fronts , tight feet correct shoulders and topline kept well on the move, well muscled, strode out with purpose. Coat was harsh with good pelt. Res Best Bitch
Windsor Championship Dog Show
1st Jul 2022
Judge: Mr David G Winsley (Davmar)
I last judged the breed in 2017 so most of the dogs were new to me. I felt that the breed is losing that ‘ otter head’ appearance, fore-faces appearing to be too long. Poor front construction in many was a deciding factor in my placing, our ring didn’t help, but the conditions were the same for everyone.
Limit - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
The East Anglia Border Terrier Club Open Show
5th Nov 2022
Judge: Mandy Holmes (Bimandi)
Many thanks to EABT for asking me to judge and to all the exhibitors for entering under me.
All males entire. 3 dogs with level bites, the rest all had good mouths. No kinked tails. Some very nice youngsters in the ring today, a real credit to their breeders.
Limit - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Class Critique
nice class of bitches, 1st, 2nd and 3rd places could easily change on another day.
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Championship Show
12th Nov 2022
Judge: Mr Eddie Houston (Earthwise)
I won my first Crufts qualifier at this show 25 years ago and it has always been one of my favourites. It was an honour to be invited to judge and my thanks go to the Scottish Club for their hospitality. Thanks also to my very capable stewards Bill Shorthose and Judy Carr.My sincere thanks to all those who entered and allowed me the privilege of going over their dogs.
Today I found there to be a much greater depth of quality among the bitches with there being many promising puppies and some very nice animals in the upper classes,particularly limit and open. This depth of quality was not apparent in a number of the dog classes although I was pleased with my main winners.
As would be expected there was some diversity in size and type.A number of exhibits of both sexes were up to size- I have big hands so if I find them difficult to span they are probably too big. I found all males to be entire, no serious mouth faults and one kinked tail.Of most concern was the number of dogs with very poor front movement and the number with atypical heads; some too long in muzzle and a few where the muzzle was too short, the latter giving a rather cat like look. Coats and pelts were generally good and a few dogs would benefit from more exercise to improve their muscletone.A fairly minor fault, but one which detracts from the overall outline, were the dogs which carried their tails curled over their backs i.e “gay tailed” as opposed to carrying their tails gaily.
Some of these faults are aesthetic but others such as size and soundness are not and we should be mindful that our breed is “essentially a working terrier.”
Limit - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Placing Critique
4years light grizzle.Leggier bitch, narrow throughout. Feminine head, good general construction, neat feet,short, dense coat and free moving.
Yorkshire, Lancashire & Cheshire Border Terrier Club Open Show
28th Jan 2023
Judge: Dr. Margaret Armstrong (Ploughdown)
I’d like to thank Yorks, Lancs and Cheshire Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge their January Open Show. It was a privilege. I was given a really warm welcome and the hospitality was second to none. The venue was bright and airy and provided for a large ring with plenty of room for exhibitors. I was very ably assisted on the day by my two stewards, Margaret Davis and Sian McKay, who organised the ring with cheerful good humour and efficiency. It was also super to be present for the presentation by the Club to Pat and Brian Baxter, who always add a convivial and kindly presence to any gathering. Lastly I’d like to thank the exhibitors for coming out in numbers in chilly January and who accepted my placings with such good grace.
Open - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Placing Critique
Much to like about this grizzle bitch. Typical headpiece with flat cranium and some strength in foreface. Correct scissor bite. Good flow of neck into level topline. Fine for bone and standing on neat tight feet. Good bend of stifle and moved out well. In full double coat with good pelt. Not showing as true in front today as 1.
The Midland Border Terrier Club Open Show
5th Feb 2023
Judge: Roger Mann (Lynsett)
My thanks go to the committee of Midland Border Terrier Club for their invitation to judge the February Open show. I had some lovely dogs to judge & would like to thank the exhibitors for their entries. I thoroughly enjoyed my day.
Best Bitch
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Best In Show
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Limit - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
Placing Critique
My star of the day. Lovely 4yr old Grizzle with a super feminine head. Strength of muzzle, correct bite, lovely eye shape, width of skull & well set neat ears. Good reach of neck leads to well placed shoulders. Well angulated all through with ribs reaching well back. Level topline held on the move, well set carrot tail. Standing on straight legs & neat feet. Shown in full coat of good texture, she has a thick loose pelt & is easily spanned. Moved out really well to take this class Best Bitch & ultimately Best In Show.
The Northern Border Terrier Club Open Show
8th Apr 2023
Judge: Mrs J Carr (Wreighaugh)
My thanks go to the Committee of the NBTC for their invitation to judge their Open Show. I was honoured to receive this appointment and am incredibly grateful to the exhibitors who gave me such a great entry. It was a most enjoyable day and special thanks go to my Stewards, Andrea Pitt and Mark Atkinson, for keeping me on track and helping the ring to run smoothly.
Open - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterwood Diodem JW
