Show Placings
Leeds Championship Show
25th Jul 2021
Judge: Mr Neil Straw (Shaolin)
Thank you to the Officer’s and Committee for their invitation to judge at their show and congratulate Liz Stannard and her hard working team for putting on the well organised show. Thank you to the exhibitors for a lovely entry and your support on the day with only 10 being absent. Temperaments throughout were excellent as you would expect, front movement is still an issue but I felt that some bitches were a tab up on size. All were well presented.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery
Placing Critique
well made head, keen eye, good dentition, still developing in body, firm loin, level topline, sound quarters, good pelt & jacket, move out well behind, needs to settle in front
Class Critique
some in this class were at their first show but took it all in their stride
Paignton Championship Show
7th Aug 2021
Judge: Mr B Aubrey
I only found 1 mouth fault and that was in the bitches, so i won't be mentioning teeth except some could have been cleaner and please watch movement there were some iffy ones here today.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery
Placing Critique
7month old grizzle young lady, and a star in the making , what a lovely type, Feminine head, dark eyes, lovely front and bone lovely feet bone, nice body for her age and moved positively i will watch her progress with interest.
Bournemouth Championship Show
16th Aug 2021
Judge: Mr J Horswell
I very much enjoyed tackling this entry and found the breed to be in pretty good shape. Quite a relaxed and friendly atmosphere I thought. I did take coats into account, there were quite a lot who were rather naked on the day and as a result went further down the line that they might otherwise have done – you have to judge what you can see, and a good coat is important in a working terrier.
Best Puppy
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery
Placing Critique
Liked her size. She has a super head and is in excellent coat. Well laid shoulder. Level topline. Well bent stifle. Can firm out and back, as to be expected really, but super in profile. Quality about her and handled to very best advantage. BP
Class Critique
That was a v nice class, all show promise.
Darlington Championship Show
17th Sep 2021
Judge: Mrs E Cuthbertson (Ashbrae)
My thanks to Darlington Committee for the invitation to my ring stewards and the exhibitors for your entries. Not having attended a show since they started up again it was quite a surprize and worry to handle some very big dogs. I know size has always been a talking point in the breed but today it was a problem with some of the dogs, bitches were a much better size with some close decisions in their classes.
Another noticeable difference is some exhibitors deciding to run with their dogs, why I don’t know it’s something never seen or needed in the border ring. With some handlers in a class walking around and others deciding to run its not what is expected. Watching a dog and handler move in unison on a good, collected pace is much more acceptable.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery
National Dog Show
24th Sep 2021
Judge: Mrs Wendy Mooney (Chesterton)
Thank you to the committee of Birmingham Dog Show Society for inviting me to judge Border Terriers at their show. Many thanks to all the exhibitors who entered and gave me the honour and pleasure of judging their dogs. I had a fabulous entry and was truly spoilt for choice in many of the classes. One general observation is that there were quite a number of dogs that were, in my opinion, simply too big to do the job that they are bred to do.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery
The Scottish Kennel Club (May) Championship Show
1st Oct 2021
Judge: Mrs Trudi Baird (Dowgri)
I was delighted to accept the invitation to judge at the May show postponed to October.
Under Scottish government rules it meant those of us inside had to wear masks & I thank the majority of exhibitors for complying with this legislation.
Thank you to my lone steward who was able to keep the classes coming in and ready for me, it wasn't an easy task with our neighbouring ring hosting the breeds October show but thankfully we didn't get too many clashes.
I always feel immensely privileged to be able to judge your dogs and I hope exhibitors felt that I gave each of you ample time to set up your dogs on the table to show them at their best.
The entry was varied and I felt my top winners were outstanding. As always coats were presented at various stages and bites were generally very good. A number with long flat & untidy feet and a few dogs I just couldn't span even with my large hands!
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery
The Scottish Kennel Club (October) Championship Show
1st Oct 2021
Judge: Miss Anita Harrison (Iacheslei)
My thanks to SKC for holding the show after two changes of date and merging the May and October shows. It can’t have been easy. My grateful thanks to Bob Potts, my sole ring steward for the day, who cheerfully and calmly kept the ring running smoothly with the greatest efficiency.
Whilst my main winners fitted the breed standard I was disappointed with some of the other exhibits. The front movement on some left an awful lot to be desired. (Try videoing your dogs moving) Many were light of bone, on the leg and short coupled giving a square outline. Several had short round ribs. Having said that the majority were spannable. Dentition was generally good. All dogs were entire. Coats were at various stages but those with no coat had to be penalised in several classes. Presentation of some exhibits could have been better. Temperaments on the whole appeared to be okay, with just the odd exhibit displaying a tendency to be over excited in the presence of others.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery
Placing Critique
another grizzle bitch with pleasing head and expression, good length of rib, correct rear angulation. Front movement needs to tighten a little.
Border Union Championship Show
4th Oct 2021
Judge: Mr W Shorthose (Cundytyke)
Many thanks go to the exhibitors and my two stewards who kept going throughout a rather damp session during the judging of the bitch classes. One of the essentials of a working terrier is being able to withstand a little rain but there were a few exhibits with thin skins and short of coat. I found that some lacked muscle, particularly behind, which affected the driving movement necessary for the breed’s function. My other main concern was the lack of width in the jaws of some, detracting from the desired, ‘like that of an otter’, head shape. This is a most identifying feature of the breed and needs to be carefully adhered to.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery
Placing Critique
Not same substance as 1, though older, moved ok and narrow.
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 ?
Best Puppy - Bitch
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Best Puppy
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Placing Critique
8 months old, nicely sized pup for her age, shown in tiptop condition, good scissor bite and lovely dark eyes, good length of neck which tapers into her level top line and tail set, nice length of tail. B.P.I.S.
Maiden - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Placing Critique
See Minor Puppy Bitch notes
Novice - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
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.
Best Puppy - Bitch
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Best Puppy
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Placing Critique
perfect for size, in excellent form, double coat presented to perfection & good condition, she is mature in ring confidence and knows how to show to her best advantage.She is so well balanced on the stack and strides out well on move despite being a little over exuberant with her front at times but she is young & that will settle in time. Super head shape & well set eye & ears, well placed neck, shoulder & upper arm, good body for raw age with correct rib shape & firm in loin
Novice - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Class Critique
Despite being novice a quality class with worthy winners. Due to recent times dogs in this class that would have won well & be well out of this class now.
Whitehaven & District Canine Association Open Show
21st Nov 2021
Judge: Tracey Anscombe (Orangebox)
Thank you to the committee for the invitation to judge at your show and to the Border Terrier Club for their support of the classes. I thoroughly enjoyed my day, there was a friendly ringside atmosphere and lovely exhibits to judge. Some of the entries in the younger classes didn’t settle that well on the move, perhaps due to the distraction of the large amount of bait left on the ground from the previous classes, but they did well enough and were all sound just distracted.
Best Puppy
Name at show: TPG1, Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Placing Critique
Very well-schooled dark grizzle presented in good order in harsh double jacket. Typical in head with clean scissor bite. I would prefer slightly smaller ears but they didn’t detract from her expression. Held her shape in the stack and on the move and strode out well once she got going. Very balanced and of a handy size and easy span. Pleased that she was awarded Puppy Group 1, BPB BPIB PG1
Class Critique
None of these exhibits moved that well due to various outside elements which made assessing movement difficult
Worcester & Malvern CS Open Show
3rd Jan 2022
Judge: Jacqui Ward (Mianja)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Best Puppy
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Puppy /
First Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Boston & District Canine Society Championship Show
9th Jan 2022
Judge: Professor A S Milton (Baillieswells)
Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Members Limited Show
30th Jan 2022
Judge: Mrs C E Sansom (Tarkaswell)
I would like to thank the committee and members of the Scottish Border Terrier Club for the invitation to judge at this very friendly and well organised club show. My steward Pete Appleby was a great help, keeping things moving smoothly, and I am most grateful to the exhibitors for giving me such a lovely entry.
Reserve Best Bitch
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Reserve Best In Show
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Junior - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Placing Critique
This dark grizzle and tan bitch was balanced in her construction and showed with presence. She had a dark eye and keen expression. Her lovely reach of neck flowed into a narrow and fairly long body, with her ribs carried well back. Level in her top line, her tail was well set and carried gaily. Correctly constructed, with good angulation, she moved out positively with drive and purpose. Presented in a harsh double coat with a thick pelt. I was pleased to award her RBB and RBIS.
National Terrier
2nd Apr 2022
Judge: Miss J Singh (Vandamere)
I would like to thank the Secretary of the National Terrier Club and committee members for their warm welcome and superb hospitality. I had a nice entry of 113. Inevitably there were some absentees. It was encouraging to see young handlers in the ring and I hope they continue to enjoy the show scene.
I found three wry mouths and one exhibit with a kink tail. A couple of exhibits were in need of muscle tone and condition. This is achievable by good feeding and exercise and not starvation. My thanks go to my very capable stewards who kept the proceedings running smoothly.
Junior - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Placing Critique
She was sporting an excellent pin wire coat, has a level topline and a good tail carriage. I liked her size and she was easily spanned. She was presented in good condition and showed well.
WELKS
25th Apr 2022
Judge: Mr S A Mcpherson (Brumberhill))
Thank you to the WELKS committee for the invitation to judge their show and to my stewards, who did a sterling job, keeping everything moving, to get through the entry.
Wasn’t sure what to expect, being on a Monday, in the current financial climate, so was delighted to receive an entry of 126 dogs, making 181 entries, topping the Terrier Group, by quite a margin. Thank you to those exhibitors, for bringing their dogs, and wanting my opinion. There were very few I’d actually judged before, having last judged at Blackpool ’19.
We were blessed with a lovely sunny day, and a huge double sized ring, giving everyone full chance to show their dogs to full advantage.
I felt it was a high quality entry, especially the bitches, where, I felt, my final bitch challenge line up was one of the best I’ve judged. There were a number of bitches, both there, and in the placings, I have no doubt will gain their crowns, given a fair chance.
Main points of concern, as last time I judged, at Blackpool ’19, are still deep stops, with a rounder eye, giving an untypical expression. A few, with this problem, also had tighter, untidy bites, as they were very short in muzzle.
A few knobbly tails, some too long, carried high, but most were ok and well carried.
On the whole, I thought movement had improved, although still a few high steppers, due to incorrect shoulder and upper arm. Toplines were good, on most. Presentation, on the whole, was good, as most were in good coat, or evidence of texture.
Junior - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Placing Critique
Grizzle. 15 ½ months. Typical head and expression. Excellent neck, shoulder, front and feet. Excellent topline and tailset. Super hindquarters, she knows how to use, on the move. Good tail and tailset. Sound, free, stylish mover, in a super double coat on a thick pelt, presented to the minute. Not easily discounted, in the challenge, she was in my final four. I understand this win gave her the final points for her Junior Warrant. Congratulations!
Joint Border Terrier Clubs' Championship Show
30th Apr 2022
Judge: Miss Elspeth Jackson (Clipstone)
What a great honour it was to be invited to judge the Joint Border Terrier Clubs’ Show in the Border Terrier’s centenary year. Waiting an extra two years did not decrease my excitement for the appointment and my anticipation was richly rewarded with a super entry both in turns of numbers and quality.
My critique must start with several expressions of gratitude to those who made this appointment possible and so enjoyable.
To the Committee for inviting me to judge at such a prestigious event. It was truly an honour, and the memory of the day will be one I shall treasure. Further the hospitality that myself and my family were shown at the show and the dinner following was much appreciated. We all had a great time.
To the show organisers, especially Show Manger Helen Axford, whose organisation and show layout allowed everything to run smoothly even when the weather was a little less than kind to us.
To my capable and efficient Stewards Christine Horner and Sharon Pickering. Having you in the ring with me was both supportive and enjoyable.Thank you to the exhibitors for giving me a lovely entry to judge. I enjoyed judging each and every dog whether in the cards or not. I had some tough decisions to make and in the stronger classes five places was insufficient for the depth of quality. A number of dogs I liked very much went cardless. I loved the line up in both my challenges and was able to find the type I wanted in all classes.
I was glad to find some super coats and pelts. The changeable late April Border weather and biting wind certainly showed us the importance of these. It left us in no doubt that for a Border Terrier working the Border country in the colder winter months and at higher elevations a good coat is a must. I understand that it is not always possible to present your dogs at a show in the perfect jacket but when out of coat, personally I prefer to see a dog neatly stripped back rather than left with a few top coat hairs.
I found three mouths with teeth well out of line and a couple of tails were questionable but overall the quality was excellent.
Junior - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Class Critique
Headed by two lovely bitches of similar type both with bags of promise who gave me a tough choice to make.
The Midland Border Terrier Club Open Show
6th May 2022
Judge: Mr R Wright (Borderexpress)
I would like to thank the Officers and Committee of The Midland Border Terrier Club for the invite to judge the Open Show held in conjunction with The Birmingham National. The hospitality showed by both clubs on the day was tremendous plus the wonderful gift received with many thanks – I will remember my first club show appointment for a long time.
I could not of been more pleased with my entry on the day so a big thank you for all of the exhibitors that gave me the opportunity to go over their dogs and the quality presented. Junior Bitch, Limit Bitch and Limit Dog classes were of real quality and on another day placings could of easily been switched. That aside I was really pleased with my Bitch/Dog line ups having some real quality to pick my main winners from.
Also a special mention to my two stewards Sharon and La for keeping my classes going and to Bev who co-ordinated between the two rings whilst the judging was going on.
It was nice having the opportunity to see Terrier Group at the Birmingham National at the end of the day and see my Best Dog go on to represent the Border Terrier by getting short listed in a really big group, he had his 3 CC today and I was delighted to see he has become a Champion in his own right.
Junior - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Placing Critique
15 month old grizzle that could easily of taken the class, lovely for size and comes to hand really well. Pleasant in head and her shoulder/rib/top line - very impressive on the move which was effortless. She has drive from her well constructed rear angulation and topped off with a super jacket/pelt.
Class Critique
Possibly the hardest class of the day with some real quality youngsters and my first 5 could all change places on another day.
National Dog Show
6th May 2022
Judge: Mrs Margaret Sneddon (Kersfell)
Thank you to the Committee for the invitation to judge at this show; I had received an invitation to judge the breed here in 2007 but was unable to accept due to a previous appointment so was very pleased to be offered the opportunity again. Thanks to my stewards for all their hard work during the day and also to the exhibitors for entering some lovely Border Terriers. There were some wonderful quality exhibits but I was particularly pleased with my line-up of unbeaten bitches with 4 or 5 in contention for the top honours, a very difficult but enjoyable decision.
It is 50 years since I won my first CC in the breed and at that time it was emphasised to novices by the experienced exhibitors that the most important part of the breed standard was the first line “essentially a working terrier” and I have always had this at the forefront in my mind when judging the breed. Not, does it work, but could it do so; meaning could it follow a horse and go to ground when needed; also could it get out again.
Junior - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
The Scottish Kennel Club Championship Show
21st May 2022
Judge: Mrs G Vaughan (Holteal)
I would like to thank Scottish Border Terrier Kennel Club and committee for my invite to judge and award my 1st CC appointment,their hospitality and welcome was appreciated greatly for such a long trip from my home county of norfolk i thoroughly enjoyed my day judging and thanks to my 2 great stewards who kept my ring running smoothly.
To have an entry of 87 dogs I believe the 6th highest of the whole show with only 19 being absent on the day which is to be expected was a great honor for myself.
Coats as always were in many different stages,not always easy to target for every show entered,I found no major faults in any of my exhibits thankfully but some dogs lacking good thick pelts and a few longer and not so desirable longer tails. There were some closer choices between some dogs in the stronger classes.
Junior - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Southern Counties Canine Association
3rd Jun 2022
Judge: Mrs Elizabeth Barrett (Howthwaite)
Thank you to the committee for inviting me to award my first set of CCs. Although my appointment was originally for 2020, it was worth the wait. Thank you to my stewards Doug and Sue for keeping me in line and the ring running smoothly. And most of all, thank you to all of the exhibitors for your entries and for allowing me to go over your dogs. I also want to thank anyone who made unsporting comments, for doing so out of my earshot.
As I would expect, the entry was on the whole very pleasing. Thankfully, I didn’t have many exaggerations, such as ultra short muzzles or over-angulated hindquarters. Unfortunately though, good fronts, and in particular clean, well laid, shoulders and good front angulation, were few and far between. Movement, with both good reach and drive and accuracy was hard to find, so I did find myself forgiving the odd wayward front legs on dogs that otherwise had good construction and an easy ground covering stride. I would rather see a dog a little loose and covering the ground than one very accurate that can only take a three inch stride. All dogs were entire. There were only a couple of less than perfect bites and an ever so slightly kinked tail. Only a select few had a good short carroty tail, and some were very long, something we need to look out for. A few, including some bitches, were big in the rib and far too heavy to pick up and quite a number had very little undercoat and thin pelts. I looked for good construction and movement, balance and no exaggeration. I found several dogs that I would happily award CCs to on another day and had the privilege of having to really nitpick, especially in the dog challenge.
Junior - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Class Critique
A lovely class of juniors who I will watch with interest.
The Southern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
4th Jun 2022
Judge: Mr David Hunt (Ottaswell)
My sincere thanks to the officers and committee of the Southern Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge at this show on such a special occasion as the Queens Platinum Jubilee Celebration day, I am sure the celebration cakes were enjoyed by all. Thanks also to the various stewards who organised the entries on the day and kept the classes running smoothly. Having been show manager of this show for the past 12 years I appreciate the effort that was made by the committee members present on the day. A final thank you to all the exhibitors for giving me the opportunity to assess your dogs.
With showers forecast and cool blustery weather outside it was decided to judge inside using a good sized ring that had good lighting with exhibitors/visitors able to view from 3 sides. I thought the entry was of a high quality, with several entries of both dogs and bitches deserving higher honours. In general the entries were in good condition. All males were entire and I found no kinked tails. Bites were of a good standard with just a few misplaced teeth, although teeth size varied considerably. Several exhibits would benefit from attention to feet to produce the small feet as required. Movement in general was better at the rear than in front. As usual coats were at various stages, with some exceptionally thick pelts to examine.
Junior - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Placing Critique
Another classy exhibit but of a smaller type than most. Has an appealing head with strong muzzle, flat skull and an alert expression. Straight front, neat feet and well placed short tail. I particularly liked her flow of neck into a well laid shoulder. With a harsh double coat she moved truly and with purpose using her well let down hocks.
Blackpool & District Canine Society
26th Jun 2022
Judge: Mrs Trak Fryer (Irton)
Thanks to the exhibitors for a lovely entry, much appreciated in these difficult times. Thanks also to my stewards who not only kept the ring moving well but proved very adept at fielding judging slips, ring cards and prize cards and miscellaneous other bits and pieces flying across the ring in a very blustery wind. I thought it would be better to judge outside, the wind did upset a few dogs and those with a lot of coat were truly blown. The Border is essentially a working terrier that should combine activity with gameness – I thought that worth repeating since some seem to have forgotten it! I managed to find good heads but in general they were not strong, the head and jaw is not a cosmetic addition but an essential part of the terrier’s make up. Feet and pelts were OK but very few could be regarded as really good, again they are an essential feature required for the work the dog was bred for. Coats were all over the place very few being presented in a good sharp deep coat, however most were acceptable.
Movement remains a problem, there were feet flicking out, plaiting in front, bouncing up and down or rocking on the front – all problems with shoulder construction. The best move with that lovely unfussy ground covering drive that is so typical of the breed.
I was surprised to find several exhibits with level bites, I know the standard allows for this but it is undesirable, particularly in young dogs.
Having said all that I did find a good number of excellent very typical dogs, Limit & Open classes in both sexes were excellent and there were some promising puppies coming along.
Best Junior
Name at show: RBJIS, TJG1, Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Junior - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Placing Critique
Smart, well presented bitch. Head OK but could be stronger. Nice size, well balanced through with a good tail & set. In very good coat & condition, moving and showing well. I thought her promising but as yet immature for top honours. Best Junior and went on to RBJIS.
East of England
9th Jul 2022
Judge: Mr Bob Blackley (Vaevictus)
Junior - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Placing Critique
Good headed bitch, well balanced throughout, with a racy backend, good size, spanable, good coat and pelt, moved well both ways.
Richmond Championship Dog Show
11th Sep 2022
Judge: Mr J A Barney (Romaunt)
Many thanks to Richmond in giving me the opportunity to judge a breed that still has some depth in quality to it. Generally, I felt movement needs to be attended to. It's a breed I've always associated with true movement both ways and a number did tend to pin in front. Coat texture was pretty good throughout but some would benefit from slightly neater presentation. I was able to span nearly all exhibits and pelts good. At the moment I would say that bitches are far stronger than the males.
RBCC
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Yearling - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Placing Critique
RCC. Really enjoyed watching this bitch move and one of the reasons she won the RCC. She really kept her shape in profile on the move. Full of her own character. Well set tail and carriage keeping a good strong topline. In good order with a harsh wiry coat. Good bone and feet with straight front. Could be slightly tighter in elbow. Good depth of brisket and well ribbed back and well bodied. Racy rear construction. Needs to mature for top honours.
Darlington Championship Dog Show
17th Sep 2022
Judge: Miss Tracey Peacock (Ragatam)
Firstly, I would like to thank the committee for their invitation to judge Border Terriers. Huge thanks to my two efficient stewards Laura Jordan-Smith and Julie North who kept me on track and finally the exhibitors for a super entry. Movement in general was better at the rear than in front as there were too many swinging fronts, wide movement and toeing in. There was a good selection of quality dogs and bitches for me to choose from and I thoroughly enjoyed my day.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Placing Critique
very nice type, head okay, good for size, well balanced throughout with good tail set. Good double coat and thick pelt. Moved with accuracy on a long ground covering stride.
The Scottish Kennel Club (October Show)
1st Oct 2022
Judge: Mr G Richardson
I would like to thank the Scottish Kennel Club for offering me the chance to award C.Cs for the first time, thanks to their hospitality i had a very enjoyable experience . Thank you to the exhibitors for accepting my decisions in a sporting manner . Also thank you to my very efficient Steward on the day Judy Carr , with her experience she kept the day flowing excellently. Overall I was very pleased with the dogs placed on the day, generally there was a better quality bitch entry compared to dogs. Movement and wide fronts was an issue with some exhibits but generally ok. I was happy to see my B.P, take Puppy Group 2 and B.S.B.I.B. take S.B. Group 1 .
Yearling - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Placing Critique
Head ok with good bite, moderate reach of neck. straight front , small feet ,Spannable shown in double coat , well angulated rear , solid on the move.
The Border Terrier Club Open Show
15th Oct 2022
Judge: Ms Julie Green (Breckgreen/Stowthorney)
I would like to thank the officers and committee for asking me to judge The Border Terrier Club Open Show at Low Hesket and big thank you for my lovely judge’s gifts. I would also like to thank my two stewards for the day, Judy Carr and Marina Flemming for doing a sterling job and keeping the ring running smoothly through the day. Thanks must go to the exhibitors for their fantastic entry and for excepting my decisions on the day. I had a lovely entry of borders who on whole were of good quality.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
The Terrier Club of Scotland Open Show
16th Oct 2022
Judge: Brenda Brown
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Limit - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Midland Counties Canine Society
30th Oct 2022
Judge: Mr Alan Small (Bethane)
I thoroughly enjoyed my day judging the Border Teriers at Midland Counties Champ. Show. Thanks to the Officers & Committee for the invite & especially to the exhibitors who presented me with such a wonderful entry of 230 from 174 dogs. It was a quality entry overall and I was particuarly impressed with the quality of the young stock which augers well for the breed. There's no Puppy or Veteran Groups at the Midland, which is a pity because I feel both would have done well. Must not be too greedy, as it was nice to see my BOB, Ch. Otterbobs Tolson top the Terrier Group and my Best Special Beginners, Thistlemead Sundance, take her respective Group as well.....Well done.
Special thanks to my Ring Stewards, Penny Lloyd & Gavin Argyle, who kept things moving along nicely. Border Terriers are dear to my heart having owned & bred them over a number of years. Thanks again for such a wonderful entry, I enjoyed your dogs and a nice atmosphere prevailed.
Yearling - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Placing Critique
nice size grizzle bitch with pleasing head, good eye & bite, ribs back & spanable, in good harsh coat with thick pelt & strong quarters, moved & handled well.
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.”
Yearling - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Placing Critique
very showy grizzle of 21 months.Nice size,well constructed, super coat and pelt.Very sound on the move, expertly handled. Plainer in head than winner and not quite as good on the move.
Ladies Kennel Association
11th Dec 2022
Judge: Mr John Bainbridge (Risdene)
A very promising entry on paper but unfortunately the weather took its toll !
However I was more than happy with my main winners all were typical of what I look for in a Border Terrier and the proof that careful breeding pays off was demonstrated by the very promising progeny found amongst the youngsters.
As is my approach to critiques, generally the winners in most respects all meet the standard which calls for a working terrier with an otter like head on reasonable length neck set into well laid shoulders, a moderate length body, well ribbed back, strong shortish loin, racy but moderate rear angulation allowing the dog to move with drive, in harsh double coat and with thick pelt. I do not therefore repeat this for each individual dog but I have highlighted the dog’s best points and the reasons for their placings .
Post Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme
Placing Critique
Nicely put together of good confirmation would prefer slightly more of her, moved out well.
Manchester Championship Show
20th Jan 2023
Judge: Mrs Patsy Hollings (Gunalt)
BCC
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme JW
Limit - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme JW
Placing Critique
I judged this one as a puppy and by shots she has fulfilled that early promise. Gorgeous head ,super,. Size, balance and substance .Spans, grand jacket. She has an air about her that makes me think she could actually work, sensible but with that terrier spirit . No nonsense. Think she’ll pick up a lot of tickets. CC
Class Critique
lovely line up.
National Terrier Club
1st Apr 2023
Judge: Miss Sarah Dandy (Dandale)
There was a good depth of quality overall across both sexes which proved for good competition and some very close decisions especially in the larger classes. Thank you to all those who accepted my decisions so sportingly. Temperaments were excellent especially the youngsters with the added challenge of the tannoy right overhead. There were some very promising youngsters which is always pleasing and positive to see, and I was delighted with my winning line up in both sexes, with top honours closely contested. I was disappointed that some exhibits who looked so good standing fell apart on the move, there were quite a few upright shoulders and I felt that efficient ground covering movement so essential for the breeds ability to follow a horse was somewhat lacking. It is encouraging to see quite a few younger handlers taking an interest in our breed today, so positive for the future. Thank you to both my excellent stewards who most competently kept the ring moving all day.
Limit - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme JW
Class Critique
Quality was excellent throughout this class and several very good bitches went cardless.
Joint Border Terrier Clubs' Championship Show
30th Apr 2023
Judge: Mrs Hilary Gilpin (Otterbobs)
A very big thank you to the SBTC for inviting me to judge this very well run show, to Marina for stewarding and to the exhibitors for entering under me.
BCC
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme JW
Best Opposite Sex
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme JW
Mid Limit - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme JW
Placing Critique
Been waiting to get my hands on this bitch and she didn’t disappoint me, she is certainly the correct size for a bitch, typical Ottery head, lovely bite and ear placement, smooth shoulders which run straight into her level back good loins and perfect set on of a short carrot shaped tail, good hind angulation hocks well let down which propelled her into that steady drive, she was slim and fit.
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Open Show
4th Jun 2023
Judge: Mrs V Atkinson (Raedwulf)
Thank you so much to the society for inviting me to judge this wonderful show. To my steward, Judy Carr, thank you for running my ring so efficiently, especially in the heat. Thanks must go to the ladies for our delicious lunch too. I was presented with some super examples of the breed and there were some tough decisions, especially in the bitches. I do also think the heat affected the performance of some as the day progressed. On the whole mouths were good, but a couple of very knotted tails and some dogs I was unable to span, even with generous allowance which would preclude them from fulfilling the breed standard of ‘essentially a working terrier’.
Best Opposite Sex
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme JW
Reserve Best In Show
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme JW
Best Bitch
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme JW
Limit - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme JW
Placing Critique
Beautiful 2 year old grizzle and tan with a super head and shallow stop. Good reach of neck and nice lay back of shoulder, she has a narrow rib and strong loin with tail straight off the back. Plenty of muscle and good turn of stifle she has small tight feet and had a graceful but purposeful movement. RBIS
Three Counties Championship Dog Show
9th Jun 2023
Judge: Mrs Jane Roberts (Smalesmouth)
Many thanks to the officers and committee for inviting me to judge Border Terriers at Three Counties Championship Dog Show. My appointment was originally for 2020 but it was worth the wait to be able to judge at this lovely showground at the foot of the Malvern Hills. Many thanks indeed to my stewards Bill and Trish who kept everything moving ringside in an efficient and pleasant manner. My thanks go to all the exhibitors who brought their dogs under me. It was a real privilege and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. There were some close decisions and I would like to thank all those who accepted my decisions so sportingly.
Based on my entry I felt that the overall quality of the breed was good. Most were fit and I thought that fronts and heads had improved from the last time I judged. There were only a few that I was unable to span and a couple who had missing teeth and one that had a kinked tail. I was particularly pleased with my bitch line-up and I thought there were some very good quality exhibits who on another day could be ticket winners.
Limit - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme JW
Placing Critique
Another with plenty of virtues. G/T in tip top condition. Nice size and balance. Typical head with little stop. Well placed shoulders, very good legs and feet. Narrow all through. Very good length of rib, top line and tail set. Shown in correct double coat and pelt. Sound, accurate movement from all angles.
The Southern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
10th Jun 2023
Judge: Miss Julie Price (Oxcroft)
Thank you to all at the Southern Border Terrier Club for the invitation to judge your championship show this year, it was a great honour and privilege. The weather was hot and the venue was good to gain some shade for the dogs and myself! I had two very capable stewards who kept things running smoothy throughout the day, so thank to Kathleen Haugh and Sophie Liggat for their support. I really enjoyed my day and was more than happy with my winners. Thank you again for your hospitality.
I was looking for type, gameness, soundness and dogs that were fit to do a day’s work whilst not losing any attributes of the breed standard. Some exhibits were rather well muscled around the shoulders which made it difficult to feel the lay of the shoulders and this would also restrict their ability to go to ground. As a breed I think we are losing the otter heads and keen expressions which distinguishes the Border Terrier from other terrier breeds. A lady contacted me a week after the show and explained that she had attended the show during some of the bitch classes as she was looking to purchase a puppy having recently lost two of her old Borders. She explained she was now thinking of buying another breed as the dogs in the show ring did not look like the Borders she had had previously. She felt that they did not have the characteristic otter heads, and sadly I had to agree with her.
Overall, most dogs were fit for purpose and I am sure you all took the best dog home with you. In the current financial climate, all your entries were valuable to the club and it was a pleasure and an honour to go over your dogs.
Mid Limit - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme JW
Placing Critique
Grizzle bitch of correct size, and easily spanned. Good reach of neck into narrow front and straight legs. Keen expression, neat ears and large teeth, would have like more substance around the muzzle and not just whiskers. Presented in superb coat and condition, moved okay.
Class Critique
Only three in this class, all of different types.
Blackpool & District Canine Society
25th Jun 2023
Judge: Mrs Jayne Gillam (Orenberg)
Many thanks to the officers and committee for inviting me to judge Border Terriers at Blackpool & District Canine Society Championship show. Grateful thanks must go to my very efficient steward Gisela Duran who did an excellent job in making sure everything ran like clockwork. Finally thank you to the exhibitors for giving me such an excellent entry of 142 dogs making 183 entries, the largest entry across all breeds on the day. It really was a privilege to go over such a large entry of dogs and I thoroughly enjoyed my day.
The size of dogs has always been a perennial topic, but I was pleased to say overall, many of the dogs were of correct size on this occasion, with very few oversized dogs and only the odd one or two I couldn’t span. Bites were good and only an odd one with teeth out of line, although a few had broken teeth, quite a few had dirty teeth and some had small teeth which is something I really don’t like to see on, essentially a working terrier. It was good to find some really lovely tails, with not too many long thin, spindly tails we have seen in the past, although I was surprised to find four kinked tails in the entry.
Overall I thought it was a good entry, I found some quality exhibits and I was very pleased with my winners, and in particular will watch the progress of my puppy and junior placings with interest.
BCC
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme JW
Limit - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme JW
Placing Critique
G&T. Stood out in this class. Quality bitch of correct size, well constructed and presented in superb coat and condition, really good to go over and so easily spanned. Lovely refined otter like head with little stop, good dentition keen expression and well placed V shaped ears. Good reach of neck into well laid shoulders, straight forelegs with small feet and thick pads. Looked great in profile with level topline and short well set on tail. Racy, well angulated hindquarters and well let down hocks which she used to great effect as she powered around the ring. BCC.
East of England Agricultural Society
6th Jul 2023
Judge: Joyce Martin (Merumhor)
Many thanks to the officers and committee for the invitation to judge Border Terriers at the East of England Agricultural Society Show, which was to be the last one run by this society. It was a super venue with lovely big rings which gave the dogs a chance to stride out. Many thanks to my ring stewards Peter and Lesley Armstrong for keeping things running smoothly and efficiently. I was delighted with my entry of 109 dogs making a total entry of 149 and pleased with the overall quality of dogs shown. Thank you to the exhibitors for giving the chance to go over your dogs and for the sporting way the placings were taken. It is indeed a privilege to have the opportunity do so. I was thrilled to be able to watch the terrier group and see my BOB - Stineval Lambert JW take group 1 in a quality line up. I also was delighted to hear that my BPIB - Glebeheath Ophelia went Group 3 in the Puppy Group.
RBCC
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme JW
Limit - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme JW
Placing Critique
A handy sized grizzle bitch with a good head and big teeth. She was presented in very good condition with a super tweedy jacket and loose pelt. She has good reach of neck flowing in to a level topline with a short, thick carroty tail straight off the back. Well angulated with a good bend of stifle and well muscled which she put to good use moving round the ring. RBCC.
Bournemouth CS Open Show
11th Aug 2023
Judge: Mrs Hilary Male (Malenbrook)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme JW
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme JW
Bournemouth Championship Show
13th Aug 2023
Judge: Ms Tina Jones (Otterholme)
My thanks go to the committee of Bournemouth Championship Show for inviting me to award tickets for the first time, it was a very special day.
Special thanks to my stewards Gentle Lowe and Brian Aubrey for doing such a sterling job, allowing me to focus on the task in hand.
I was delighted with the entry that awaited me, a huge thank you to the exhibitors for giving me the privilege to go over their dogs, this was a real honour and the sporting way they accepted my decisions, on the whole by most exhibitors.
I was told many years ago, by someone well respected in the breed to judge with the hands, not with the eyes, never did this ring true as today. Some dogs I have admired from the ringside, didn’t live up to expectations, whilst others that hadn’t previously caught my eye, surprised me and did.
Being the daughter of a hunt terrier man I could get no better grounding in the requirements of an earth dog, these were the days long before quad bikes, terriers would be expected to be on their feet from the moment hounds drew off until close of the hunting day, working in landscapes not dissimilar to that of that hunt the breed first originated from.
l tried to look subjectively at the exhibit before me to see if they had the confirmation and condition to undertake such duties. I was surprised how quite a number were difficult to span and far too deep in chest and too wide in front and came up heavy, lacking the narrowness to go to ground, a distinct disadvantage in the working arena, legs bend, chests don’t.
I was finding rear movement was better than front, but more than a few lacked the drive that I looked for with elevated front action that indicates an upper arm that is shorter than ideal.
I look to see feet that are tight with a good thick pad so vital in an earth dog, many were lacking in this important trait.
I found temperaments superb throughout the day, dentition was questionable on several exhibits and all dogs entire.
A plea to exhibitors if you bait them on the table, that is fine if they look hypnotically at the treat, but on several occasions, owners were wrestling with their dogs trying to get at the treat, making it difficult to assess them.
I am always mindful to judge fit for function, and I was happy that my winners fitted that bill and all sporting decent jackets and pelts and meeting my interpretation of the breed standard.
I was delighted to see my BOB going on to third in the terrier group and my BP winning the terrier puppy group.
Open - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme JW
Placing Critique
Another very sound well constructed and well balanced bitch of excellent type and quality. Correctly proportioned head, good length of neck which flowed seamlessly into well placed shoulders, of pleasing size and narrow all through, easy to span, not overdone in any way. Presented a balanced picture in profile and on the move, in a super jacket of good depth and texture with ample pelt. Stood on tight well padded feet. Moved out with a free and easy stride. Unlucky to meet 1 today
Class Critique
A quality class
Richmond Championship Show
8th Sep 2023
Judge: Mr Tim Ball (Kaitak)
Open - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: CH Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme JW
Yorkshire, Lancashire & Cheshire Border Terrier Club Championship Show
30th Sep 2023
Judge: Mrs J Guvercin (Glebeheath)
Thank you to the committee for this appointment, everyone worked hard to make it an enjoyable day. This venue always has a super atmosphere, however, the ring is too small really to see outlines, being far too near the dogs and side profile movement is very difficult to see, let alone for the dogs to perform really well. Many moved poorly, not liking the smooth mats and although I had to judge them on this today, I think most would move much better outside in a big grass ring.
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: CH Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme JW
Placing Critique
grizzle, smaller package all round but has all the essentials and would get anywhere. Feminine head, a fraction longer in muzzle than my ideal but it’s strong with good bite. Skull is ottery with neat well set ear and dark eye. Medium neck into a very easily spanned body with best of coats that was well prepared covering a thick pelt. Lovely topline and short carroty tail which she uses well on the move, such a showgirl who will always catch the eye and was pushing all the way today.
Midland Counties Championship Show
26th Oct 2023
Judge: Mr J Gilpin (Otterbobs)
I would like to thank the officers & committee for giving me the opportunity to judge the Border Terrier classes, & also a big thank you to Penny Winger & Gavin Argill my two ring stewards who kept things in order & also made sure we finished on time, and a special mention to my Best of Breed winner for attending the terrier group, and being rewarded with being short listed in the final seven.
Best Of Breed
Name at show: CH Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme JW
BCC
Name at show: CH Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme JW
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: CH Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme JW
Placing Critique
The winner has outstanding quality with a wide skull and strong muzzle, dark eye and neat ears, liked her straight front, shoulders, fore-chest, strong coupling and racy lines, easy spanned, correct bone and well-muscled, nice bend of stifle which helped her move with drive. BCC & BOB.
National Terrier Club
6th Apr 2024
Judge: Miss Elspeth Jackson (Clipstone)
Thanks to the National Terrier Club for their invitation to judge at this prestigious show and to the exhibitors who did me the honour of judging their dogs. I was lucky to have two efficient stewards who kept things running smoothly, thank you Laura and Dave.
The entry showed a good depth of quality. In many classes the places were hotly contested with decisions needing to be made on the narrowest of margins. I was very pleased to find that there were some good coats on thick pelts and the nice thick short tails which set off a good border so well.
Open - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: CH Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme JW
Class Critique
Super class with quality right down the line and topped by two eye catching blue bitches.
West of England Ladies Kennel Society
26th Apr 2024
Judge: Mandy Holmes (Bimandi)
Open - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: CH Liatch Madame Pommery at Wilholme JW
