Show Placings
Wolsingham & Wear Valley AS Open Show
4th Sep 2016
Judge: Mrs Lesley Roberts (Mindlen)
Best Puppy
Name at show: BPIS, TPG1, Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Darlington Championship Dog Show
16th Sep 2016
Judge: Mr Mark Lowry (Ravenside)
Thank you to Darlington Dog Show Society for inviting me to judge their show. Special thanks to my stewards who’s relaxed but competent manner made for an enjoyable show, also a big thank you to all the exhibitors for allowing me to go over their dogs. I was very happy with my main winners who I felt were fit for purpose and should have continued success in the show ring.
Mouths were good with even the smaller exhibits still having big strong teeth. Coats were of various lengths as to be expected. The two biggest concerns were heavy, almost sprung ribs in some dogs. Even on some smaller dogs and bitches, which in profile appear fine, but when going over, were surprisingly big in rib. This would hinder them when working underground. I am not saying they should be flat ribbed but the standard states deep and narrow and not over sprung.
Also I found not many dogs moving without much drive from behind. They should have the soundness to follow a horse. I did think on the whole that dogs were turned out very well and temperaments appeared good.
Minor Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Placing Critique
7 month old grizzle and tan with good bodylines. Thick pelt with good double coat and nice bend of stifle. Moved well holding a good topline. A little loose in front but still my overall pick.
The Yorkshire, Lancashire & Cheshire Border Terrier Club Championship Show
24th Sep 2016
Judge: Mrs Jena Tuck (Nettleby)
I would like to thank the Committee of the Yorkshire, Lancashire and Cheshire Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge this very enjoyable and well run show. It was an honour and pleasure. In the ring I was very ably assisted by my two capable stewards Ian and Bridget, who I would like to thank. The hospitality of the Club was second to none I had a truly wonderful day. Thanks must go to the exhibitors, who allowed me to go over their dogs. The depth of quality was remarkable and some very good exhibits had to go cardless I was delighted by my main winners, thank you again for giving me the pleasure of judging them. I chose the dog as BIS because he had that extra attitude and showmanship.
Minor Puppy - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Placing Critique
Not so narrow in front as one, with a good head, not in such good pelt or coat as the winner. Preferred the overall balance of one.
Driffield Agricultural Society Championship Dog Show
1st Oct 2016
Judge: Mrs Jane Roberts (Smalesmouth)
I would like to thank the officers and committee of the Driffield Agricultural Society for the invitation to judge at their show.
I was grateful to have the use of an excellent sized ring. The surface was rather undulating and rough cut in places, which proved more of a challenge to those dogs whose movement did not have “the soundness to follow a horse”. It was a very raw start to the day with the dogs being judged under rather cold and misty conditions although the sun did break through as the bitch classes began.
Grateful thanks to my stewards Anne and Sarah, who kept everything moving so efficiently and were good company for the day. My thanks to all the exhibitors, it really is a privilege to go over your dogs and is always a learning curve. I had a thoroughly enjoyable day and there were some top quality exhibits and some promising youngsters, whose progress I will watch with interest. Some decisions were hard, and limit dog, junior and limit bitch had quality in depth.
It was extremely rewarding to find some very good double jackets amongst the entry but felt there were several others who had thin pelts or lacked undercoat. There were a couple with teeth out of alignment and too many dogs whose movement lacked the necessary drive from the hindquarters.
I was mindful of the job that Border Terriers were bred to undertake and I was pleased with my class winners; making the challenge for both dogs and bitches an enjoyable if difficult task.
Minor Puppy - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Placing Critique
Eight months grizzle. Good head and expression. Not quite the front assembly of the winner but he has a good length of rib, level topline and nice shaped carrot tail. Shown in good double coat and pelt. He moved soundly, covering the ground with a decent length of stride. Well handled.
The Border Terrier Club Open Show
15th Oct 2016
Judge: Mr. Graham Richardson (Staynorwood)
I would like to thank The Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge their Open Show . The club and officers were very welcoming and I thoroughly enjoyed my day . I would like to thank my very helpful stewards Liz Barratt and Janice Johnson who kept things flowing through the day . I was pleased with my entry with some quality dogs to handle. It was also good to see some promising pups coming through . I was very pleased with my winners on the day
Best Puppy - Dog
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Minor Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Placing Critique
mature looking 7.5 month old puppy, typical otter head with excellent bite , good length of neck, straight front with well laid back shoulders , narrow throughout, easily spanned with good length of rib ,shown in full coarse double coat, loose pelt . Tail set on well and carried well, .good angulation Moved with ease and confidence around the ring. Pleased to award him R.B.P.I.S.
The Midland Border Terrier Club Open Show
5th Nov 2016
Judge: Mrs Joyce Martin (Merumhor)
I would like to thank the Midland Border Terrier Club for their invitation to judge this show. It was a great privilege to be asked and I would like to thank my two ring stewards Jem Thomas and Richard Wright for keeping everything moving smoothly for me throughout the day.
Best Puppy - Dog
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Minor Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Placing Critique
Almost 9 months old and a very mature grizzle puppy. He has a super head, with keen expression, nice big teeth and strong muzzle. He has good reach of neck and lovely straight front, built on narrow lines with good length of body. Shown in harsh coat with plenty of loose pelt and short thick carrot tail. He moved well and was steady. BPD
Novice - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
The Sporting Terrier Association Of Yorkshire Open Show
13th Nov 2016
Judge: Mr C Wallace (Hobholt)
My thanks to the committee for the appointment, my very capable steward and the exhibitors for bringing a fine group of Borders’ to the show. Pleased to see the Best Puppy go BPIS under Bill Browne-Cole.
Junior /
Third Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Boston & District Canine Society
8th Jan 2017
Judge: Mr E Houston
My thanks to the Society for inviting me,to my two very able stewards, Barry and Debs,and,most especially,to the exhibitors who allowed me the privilege of going over their dogs and who accepted my decisions so sportingly.
Overall I was very impressed with the quality of the entry.The limit and open classes in both sexes had quality beyond the placings and there were some very promising puppies,especially among the bitches- this must augur well for the future.Heads were largely typical,most were spannable and considering the time of year I was pleasantly surprised to find so many in good coat.On the downside,many were lacking muscletone and front movement continues to be an issue and not just in the lower classes.I was pleased with both line ups and thought my main winners excellent examples of the breed. I was delighted to hear that my Best of Breed went on to win the Group.
Puppy - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Placing Critique
Another promising youngster.Lovely headed red with neat,well set ears.Moved well on good feet.Double coated but not much depth of topcoat at the moment.
Yorkshire, Lancashire & Cheshire Border Terrier Club Open Show
28th Jan 2017
Judge: Mrs. A. Heathcote (Saxheath)
My thanks to the Committee for asking me to judge this show , my Stewards Callie and Ian for their invaluable assistance and all the exhibitors for allowing me to judge their dogs . I had some quality dogs to go over with some close decisions in some classes , however , I found front movement in particular was rather disappointing in the lower classes .That aside I thoroughly enjoyed my day .
Puppy - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Novice - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
The Midland Border Terrier Club Open Show
11th Feb 2017
Judge: Mr Jem Thomas (Daluce)
I would like to thank the club and it's committee for giving me the great honour and opportunity of judging their show. Thank you to my stewards on the day Sharon Pickering and Liz Wright who kept me on my toes and made sure everything ran smoothly. A massive thank you to the exhibitors who braved the elements on what what's a horrible morning weather wise and accepted my decisions In a wonderfully sporting manner.
Thank you all.
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Placing Critique
Just shy of 12m old grizzle and tan dog. Lovely headed dog. Correct ear set. Excellent top line and tail set. Showed in fabulous harsh coat with one of the best pelts of the day. Well angulated rear which gave drive around the ring. Moved well in profile, just needs to tighten up in front
The Border Terrier Club Open Show
25th Feb 2017
Judge: Rachel Larner (Hawcoat)
Firstly I would like to thank the club and its committee members for inviting me to judge their show, it was an honour and privilege and I thoroughly enjoyed my day. Thank you to my two lovely stewards, Liz Barrett and Anna Duxbury, for their help and assistance and for keeping the show running smoothly. Lastly I would like to thank all the exhibitors for entering and bringing their lovely dogs for me to judge. I have done the majority of my judging, so far, in the south west and wales so it was a real pleasure to go over some dogs that I have not had the pleasure of judging, Northern dogs are a lot hardier than our southerners!!
I had some quality dogs to go over which gave me some tough decisions to make and wish I could have given out more cards. I found all dogs to be entire and no bad mouths, apart from the odd missing tooth in the Veteran class!
I really did have a fabulous day and just want to apologise for not getting this critique out sooner.
Best Dog
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Best In Show
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Placing Critique
This dog took my eye as soon as I saw him and he did not disappoint when I got my hands on him. He is everything I like in a dog. Lovely otter head with flat skull, little stop, strong muzzle and dark eye with wonderful expression, ears set well and a good bite with lovely teeth. Good length of neck, with a good narrow front and throughout. Well laid shoulders and good length of rib with strong loin. Well balanced and with good angulation front and rear. Easily spanned. Super topline into a well set tail that was of correct size and shape. He moved with ease around the ring and held his topline well. Shown in super condition and lovely grizzle jacket with thick pelt. I was absolutely delighted to award him BD and BIS. I really do hope he goes on to do well in the future.
Crufts
9th Mar 2017
Judge: Miss Sally Leslie (Risdene)
It was a great honour and pleasure to examine a superb entry of 250 dogs with 28 absentees. I was conscious that the judging period available had to be used wisely. My profound thanks to all exhibitors, my splendidly efficient stewards Mr R and Mrs A Green and the marvellous exhibitor who provided the red chair as my unofficial ring marker (even if she did occasionally have the temerity to sit in it) for co-operating famously to ensure that we completed our task in a timely manner while hopefully enabling everyone an equal opportunity to put their best foot forward.
To go over something special and send it round and see proof that it meets the crucial test of health and conformation makes the pulse quicken. I was looking for typical, well knit, well conditioned, free moving specimens exhibiting all the breed characteristics we need to retain while trying to minimise undesirable aspects. This is a natural and unexaggerated breed and my ultimate line-ups pleased me immensely displaying exactly what I was seeking
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Placing Critique
good to handle, I know he can grow a proper coat as he was in it and I appreciated it for texture and the presence of a good undercoat, may have blurred his outline a little ringside but underneath has correct bone and is of good size, make and shape, good skull and foreface, lovely expression, sufficient neck, good head carriage, correct depth of body, good in loin and moved well using his tidy quarters to really drive forward
The Border Terrier Club Championship Show
25th Mar 2017
Judge: Mrs. Margaret Curtis (Matamba)
Thank you to The Border Terrier Club officers, committee and members who elected to give me the privilege of judging their club championship show, and many thanks to the exhibitors who travelled from near and far and accepted my placings sportingly. Thanks to my two stewards Janice Johnson and Judith Fawcett who did a grand job and also thanks to the hard working Joyce Martin for all the wonderful photographs.
Today the overall picture and my main concern was that we seem to be losing the "Head like that of an otter moderately broad in the skull, with short strong muzzle". What I was seeing was a narrow skull which does not give that typical Border Terrier expression. Movement was more of a problem in the dog classes, in the bitch classes came the quality and the soundness.
When it comes to the showring, presentation is, in my opinion, important. I like to see a dog smart but not over groomed or in full coat but tidy, today attention to ears, tails and feet could have been beneficial to some exhibits.
Junior - Dog /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
National Terrier Club
1st Apr 2017
Judge: Mr A Horner (Stineval)
Thank you to The National Terrier Club for the appointment also my stewards who did a sterling job in keeping everything moving smoothly and a thank you to the exhibitors for allowing me the opportunity to go over their prized possessions. A few dogs were under weight and some would benefit by having their feet and nails some attention. I only found one suspect mouth and lots lacking in body condition. Some need to put scissors in the drawer and leave them there too! I was pleased with the final lines of my winners of both sexes.
Junior - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Novice - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Placing Critique
(G/tan) Lovely head and expression with small neat ears, nice reach of neck onto straight front and level topline and tail set on well. Good double jacket and thick pliable pelt and moved well.
Joint Border Terriers Clubs' Championship Show
30th Apr 2017
Judge: Mrs. K. Wilkinson (Otterkin)
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Placing Critique
Lovely balance on this dog. Although short of coat today, he moved the best in the class. Super otter head, though I would prefer if more of the longer face furnishings on his muzzle were removed (his muzzle is strong enough not to need this extra hair). Good straight front and a lovely topline. Excellent rib shape which gives the pleasing outline when viewed from above and was easily spanned. Pleased to see a lot of the show dogs today also have a pleasant home life, as evidenced in this case by his good hard condition with good muscle tone throughout and on good second thigh.
Graduate - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Placing Critique
For full report, see his first placing in Junior Dog. While still a young dog, he won this 2nd class for him on his excellent body shape and hind movement. A little loose in front movement in this class, but he has time to improve there.
North West Canine Association Open Show
1st May 2017
Judge: Mr Colin Woodward (Wadeson)
Junior /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Post Graduate /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Birmingham National Dog Show
4th May 2017
Judge: Mr Terence Tuck
Junior - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Graduate - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Placing Critique
Nice head, out of coat but won on his overall proportions and bodylines, being nicely ribbed back and with decent all round construction.
The Yorkshire, Lancashire & Cheshire Border Terrier Club Open Show
13th May 2017
Judge: Mr. J. Thomas (Blaisdon)
Thank you to officers and committee for inviting me to judge and to stewards for excellent work and also to the exhibitors for supporting the show.
Post Graduate - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Southern Counties Canine Association
3rd Jun 2017
Judge: Mr Kimmo Mustonen (Finland)
I would like to thank the committee for inviting me to judge at this show. And to my two stewards who were very helpful all the day. I really enjoyed the show. It was a pleasure and an honour to judge my own breed Border Terriers in their home country. It was a day I will remember. Thank you to the exhibitors for their entries!
Graduate - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Placing Critique
Excellent size and proportions. Good head and typical expression. Good eyes and ears. Very good topline. Enough angulated. Excellent coat and pelt. Easy to span Moved well, only a bit loose in front.
Three Counties
10th Jun 2017
Judge: Ms Michelle Barnett
Many thanks to the Officers and the committee for kindly inviting me to Judge at the show and my most capable stewards for their efficiency in the ring. My sincere thanks also to the exhibitors for their entries and support. The classes were filled with some lovely breed quality dogs and bitches and on completing my appointment I was delighted to see my final line up(s) presenting me with such a hard task in my final decision of who to award the ultimate top honours too! That always makes for a satisfying end to a judges day. So can i take this opportunity to thank you for allowing me the privilege of judging your Border terriers Two nice classes of pups which bodes well for the future
Junior - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Placing Critique
16 mth old Grizzle and Tan beat off strong competition to secure 2nd and like 1st appealed for his many breed qualities, Just felt in the final run-off, although sound he lacked the enthusiasm of 1st on the move today.
Class Critique
Very nice class
Post Graduate - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Class Critique
Yet another nice class
Blackpool Championship Dog Show
23rd Jun 2017
Judge: Mr D Mitchell (Paleside)
I would like to thank Blackpool for inviting me to give my first CC’s, and to the exhibitors for a lovely entry of super dogs which were a pleasure to go over. My two stewards for doing a sterling job. It was such a shame the weather turned on Friday morning, the heavens opened and it blew a gale. But you turned out non the less. Overall I was pleased with the movement back and front. Dogs were in good fit condition, some would benefit from ringcraft for both dog and owner. From what I saw today things are good for the future of our breed.
RDCC
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Placing Critique
I could not take my eyes off this young dog, dark eye, lovely head and dentition, good reach of neck, and good shoulders. Narrow, good length of rib and strong in loin. Well-muscled second thigh, carrot tail. Stood on thick pads, RCC
Graduate - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Placing Critique
As junior.
The Nothern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
15th Jul 2017
Judge: Mrs. P. McLellan (Breconbeds)
My thanks to the committee and members for giving me the opportunity to judge this show, with such an excellent entry. However, I’m sorry to say that I was alarmed to see so many dogs that were short in both rib and leg, resulting in short backed and cobby looking dogs with deep briskets. I also observed that some of these same dogs had pleasant enough heads but carried very small teeth.
Movement was a major concern; decent enough dogs to examine but poor fronts on the move spoiled the whole picture – toeing in and/or with incorrect shoulder angulation. Some were really wide in front.
Junior - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Post Graduate - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Leeds Championship Dog Show
22nd Jul 2017
Judge: Mrs Jayne Alpe
Thanks to the committee for my invitation and for providing two excellent stewards who enabled me to easily get on with my judging. Thank you to the exhibitors for the good quality entry. Overall impression from last time I judged was that movement has improved somewhat but many lacked the drive and ease of movement that is needed in a dog that was bred to follow a horse. I was looking for both this and balance without some of the over exaggerations that I have noticed slowly creeping in to the breed. I was delighted to see my BOB pulled into the cut in the group and my BP with a Group 4.
RDCC
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Placing Critique
lovely balanced dog, moved true and sound with good drive and kept his top line on the move, thick pelt and harsh double coat. Correct bite with large teeth, dark eye and correct varminty expression. Pushed hard for top honours. RDCC
Leek & DCS Open Show
29th Jul 2017
Judge: Mr G Richardson
Thank you to the society for inviting me to judge at their show and all the exhibitors who entered and allowed me to judge their dogs on the day. I was pleased with all the dogs placed on the day and to see my B.O.B .go on to take B.I.S.
Reserve Best Of Breed
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Placing Critique
Grizzle 17 month old dog, Balanced with typical otter head well set ears . strong jaw ,correct bite with large teeth, good length of neck and shoulder placement , narrow straight front . Easily spanned ,shown in full coat , loose pelt. Well muscled rear quarters with good angulation. Moved soundly around the ring .
Post Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Placing Critique
See Junior
The Midland Border Terrier Club Championship Show
6th Aug 2017
Judge: Dogs: Julie Guvercin, Bitches: Denise Townsend
Julie Guvercin, Dogs:-
Midland border terrier club ch sh 6th August 2017 A warm welcome and a super quality entry awaited me at this show with very few absentees.
A few kinked tails, some untidy bites and very noticeable were the amount of light eyes creeping in, some so pale it ruined the expression completely. Just one male with what felt like abnormal testicles!
Thank you for bringing your dogs, some classes were so hotly contested that all 5 placed had lots to commend them and 1st to 3rd was splitting hairs in some cases.
Some dogs looked beautiful stood, but failed miserably on the move and paid the price.
Denise Townsend, Bitches:-
I judged the first show ever held by the Midland Border Terrier Club back in 1984 which made me feel very old when I worked how long ago that was! Thank you to all exhibitors for the opportunity to go over your dogs – I always consider it a great privilege and I was very pleased with my winners. I could span virtually every bitch present so think that criteria went before me in terms of my entry! Just the very occasional crooked mouth and I would agree with my co-judge that I noticed several light eyes and some dogs that were light in underjaw.
Junior - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Placing Critique
Beautiful headed red, another quality dog who I have seen on better form. Not moving as soundly behind today. Quality coat, just past its best but still well presented on thick pelt. Excellent topline and tail is well set and carried. A very nice dog.
The Border Terrier Club Open Show
21st Oct 2017
Judge: Ms. Suzanne Coldham (nee Marwood) (Annesuz)
It was an absolute honour and pleasure to judge the Border Terrier Club’s Open show in Low Hesket and I would like to thank a very hardworking committee for this opportunity. I would also like to thank the exhibitors and spectators for their warm welcome and genuine applause at my placings. There was a good atmosphere throughout the day and good to see so many still ringside to see the top honours at the end.
I was greeted with an excellent entry of 104 dogs making 122 entries and from these I was able to select some top specimens truly representative of our breed. I am not going to wax lyrical about the breed in general but suffice to say in my humble opinion a watch needs to be kept on heads, movement and coats/pelt.
I was pleasantly surprised to find my Best Dog is the grandsire of my Reserve Best Dog and my Best Bitch and Reserve Best Bitch share the same sire as each other.
Reserve Best Dog
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Reserve Best In Show
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Post Graduate - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Placing Critique
A very smart dog who immediately took my eye. Loved his head, excellent big teeth, keen eye, flat topskull. A well balanced dog of correct size, level topline, narrow throughout but with substance. He is well angulated, good bone and small tight feet. Put down in good hard condition, he moved effortlessly round the ring. Pushed very hard for Best Dog but pleased to award him Reserve Best Dog. He should gain his title with ease. Reserve BIS, Reserve Best Dog
Midland Counties Canine Society
27th Oct 2017
Judge: Mr David G Winsley (Davmar)
My thanks to the exhibitors for their quality entry, also to my two efficient stewards.
I would like to mention that due to the noisy ring next to our during the first three bitch classes, some youngster were upset and didn't show to their best advantage, hopefully they will have gotten over it. Movement generally was good in the majority of dogs. Feet need more attention, some certainly don't comply with the breed standard and certainly would affect them if they had to go long distances. Some just needed a little judicious trimming.
Yearling - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer
Placing Critique
I liked this one for his size & well balanced shape. He has a typical head & expression, with a good neck & correct shoulders. Well made body, good hindquarters with a nice turn of stifle. Carrying a quality harsh jacket & good pelt. He moves soundly both ways & is a good showman.
The Midland Border Terrier Club Open Show
4th Nov 2017
Judge: Mrs Sandra Girling (Benattivo)
I would like to express my sincere thanks to the Officers and Committee of the Midland Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge my first club show. My very competent and Friendly stewards Jem Thomas and Richard Wright, were well organised to keep the day flowing so many thanks for their help. A special thank you to all the exhibitors who trusted me to evaluate their Border Terriers, accepting my decisions graciously.
I was very impressed by the standard of presentation particularly the quality of coats. I had some amazingly difficult decisions and in many classes placings were hotly contested, forcing me to ‘split hairs’ over placings. I appreciated that some quality exhibits did not win their classes despite some outstanding breed features. I looked for accurate movement and narrow body lines which were present in my primary winners. The youngsters were particularly noteworthy staying enthusiastic and keen right to the end of the show.
Graduate - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
Grizzle and tan male 20 months old. Lovely head, moderately broad skull with good strength in his jaw and has big teeth. He was shown in a quality double jacket covering a lovely length of rib. He is easily spanned and has a strong loin. He moves very well on good neat tight feet.
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Championship Show
11th Nov 2017
Judge: Mrs E Cuthbertson (Ashbrae)
My thanks to the Officers, Committee and members of the Club for this appointment. It was a privilege to judge, with a very nice entry and sporting atmosphere throughout the day.
My thanks for the hospitality, gift and excellent lunch, and to my steward Shona.
I was pleased with the entry overall, coats varied throughout. My main concern not only today but with the breed in general would be size with many being too big and something that must be considered in future breeding. Front movement with pinning in lost some dogs placings today. It was rewarding to start two youngsters off with their first CC’s and I wish them well for their future.
DCC
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Best In Show
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Yearling - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
Quality dog, in super double coat with a thick pelt. He was in lovely condition. Nice head with good strength of muzzle, strong teeth. Moderate in neck with good shoulder and rib. Nicely angulated and balanced. Moved out well, stood out today. Pleased to award him his first CC and BIS.
Ladies Kennel Association
10th Dec 2017
Judge: Mrs Angela M Gregory (Manx)
My thanks to the LKA for their kind invitation to judge the Border terriers at this year’s championship show. My thanks go to the Stewards who assisted at the event and to you all who were very helpful and supportive. Sadly we were victims to the weather and this did have a marked impact on attendance which was a real shame but the association still managed to deliver a quality show. Thanks are also extended to the exhibiters who help support the show. Congratulations to those who did brave the inclement weather and I felt that despite the low attendance the standard of dogs offered a competitive environment. I was delighted to have seen the Border Terrier Group as having a high level of entries this year
RDCC
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Yearling - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
Nice typey B/T. He had a good harsh jacket. Nicely put together dog, good in rib, moved out well with level back and keeping a level top line. Nice head and good reach of neck - and he had a lot to like.
The Border Terrier Club Open Show
24th Feb 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 warm welcome and hospitality shown on the day. Special thanks go to the Show Secretary Kathy Wilkinson, my two efficient stewards Liz Barrett and Judy Carr, and Carol Mackenzie for a lovely lunch. Most of all I would like to say a very big thank you to all the exhibitors for giving me such a lovely entry, and for allowing me the privilege of going over their dogs. The depth of quality in some classes, particularly the bitches, meant that I truly wished for more top places to give out. However, I was very pleased with my main winners, who all looked as though they could manage a day’s work. Most exhibits were in hard, fit condition and well turned out. All dogs were entire, I found just a couple of kinked tails, and, understandably, there were a few missing/misplaced teeth in the veteran class. Coats were at various stages, as to be expected, and this had to affect a few places as it is not only a necessity on a working terrier, but completes the picture. I was pleased to have some very promising puppies, and at the other end of the scale a wonderful class of veterans.
Limit - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
Handsome grizzle and tan who excels for size and breed type. He has a lovely masculine head and varminty expression, with strong jaw and teeth in a correct scissor bite. He has a good reach of neck into well laid back, narrow shoulders, is easily spanned, and has a straight front with just the correct amount of bone. He is well angulated front and rear, holds a good topline with correct tailset, and moves accurately to cover the ground with ease. He has a thick, pliable pelt and was shown in an excellent, harsh topcoat, and pushed very hard for top honours.
Wath, West Melton & District Canine Society Open Show
3rd Mar 2018
Judge: Mrs Linda Coleman (Hartswelin)
Lovely entry marred by absentees but understandable due to the weather conditions
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG1, Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
2 year red gr. dog, so well balanced, correct length and narrow all through. Tight feet, straightest of fronts. Coat spot on, lovely carroty tail set well on. Moved well coming and going BOB TG1
Crufts
9th Mar 2018
Judge: Mr.Carl Gunnar-Stafberg
Mid Limit - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
The Border Terrier Club Championship Show
31st Mar 2018
Judge: Mrs Lesley Gosling (Akinside)
My grateful thanks to the BTC for the invitation to judge the annual Championship show and my thanks to my efficient stewards who were kept busy. I was astonished to see from my catalogue, as I prepared my critique, how far exhibitors had travelled, particularly with the unpredictable weather we are experiencing. Thank you all for coming.
Movement is improving. There are still are some upright shoulders and poor rear angulation. Size is incredibly variable and as this breed has a strong working heritage some exhibits would struggle to get into any fox earth. I would like to see more muscle tone on back ends. The opportunities to work Borders may have diminished, but the breed standard is our template and we should stick to it or we will have classes filled with ‘showing fools.’
Don’t chalk coats to harden them. Your judges will find it. It’s unnecessary - don’t let it become a fashion. A good coat needs no embellishments and good coats on the day were excellent coats. Coats will grow but in the process may miss out on top honours at a Championship show. We all want our dogs to have their best coats on a show day, but the two things don’t always coincide. I also appreciated that coats kept going for Crufts recently had then been stripped out.
Quality and breed type were lacking in some exhibits. Young heads need time at puppy stage but some young males were disappointing. One puppy dog was chronically thin. Puppies should be puppy-ish, carry a bit of weight and be happy in the ring and socialised. The Exhibition Hall is noisy and some pups are phased by unusual sounds, but I’m pleased to say that temperaments were excellent. I dislike seeing youngsters being strung up - dancing on their toes - and having their leads jerked to keep their attention, or to get them walking in a straight line. Try talking to your dog on the move and loosen those leads.
I have expressed an opinion on baiting before, and I will keep doing it until exhibitors take note, or I die pleading. Baiting a dog on the table unbalances the dog, gets in the way of the judge doing his/her job properly when it comes to checking the bite, and distracts the dogs completely. Borders are especially curious of strangers who approach, so the table contest for them becomes ‘bait’ or ‘stranger.’ A judge doesn’t want to waste time getting the dog’s attention away from bait. Practice getting the stance correct on a table without bait. Please - keep your bait until the dog is on the floor.
All males were entire; scissor bites generally were very good but some varied from a level bite, to the odd missing or chipped tooth and a couple of slightly wry mouths, but teeth were well presented and clean. There was just one kinked tail.
The best exhibits were exceptionally good. Eyes were dark and of good shape, bright and healthy. The good coats were tight, crisp and of great texture. Movement was impressive on the whole – straight and true - and almost all dogs were spannable. Sadly, not enough cards to go round and in some of the senior classes of both sexes, there were beautiful exhibits in tremendous condition, which could change places at any time. Their owners are to be congratulated.
Limit - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
Another lovely breed example of correct size. Easily spanned. Double coat of correct texture. Strong head with typical mischievous expression and good scissor bite. Moved out strongly and confidently.
Class Critique
Quality was excellent throughout this class and several very good dogs went cardless.
National Terrier Club
7th Apr 2018
Judge: Mr. W. R. Irving
Thanks to the exhibitors for the entry of 160 from 157 dogs.
There were some very strong classes and interestingly the biggest class was Limit Dog with seventeen entries. My biggest worry about the overall entry was that there seemed be some very large exhibits which were well over the standard size. Even in bitches there were a good number that were too big and in dogs some were enormous. And it was not so much that they were too leggy - rather that so many were far from being able to be spanned. I think we really ought to try to do something about that.
Heads were by and large good but there were quite a few with big ears. Coats of course were variable and I only found one really bad mouth and one kinked tail.
Movement left a bit to be desired especially in front but I was disappointed also that so many were not moving well behind either.
My thanks to my two very efficient stewards which enabled us to finish by around 1 p.m. and to the exhibitors most of whom seemed to take my decisions in the sporting way befitting the breed
Limit - Dog /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Class Critique
This was a very strong class and many good ones had to go unplaced
The East Anglia Border Terrier Club Championship Show
8th Apr 2018
Judge: Mr David Hunt (Ottaswell)
With apologies for the delay in submitting this critique.
My sincere thanks to the officers and committee of East Anglia Border Terrier Club for offering me this appointment.
Huge thanks to my sole steward Rob Brewster who efficiently organised the ring and exhibits all day despite being in poor health and needing constant medication throughout the day. Most of all my appreciation to the exhibitors for giving me the opportunity to assess your dogs.
With the ever rising cost of suitable venues, it was necessary to move this show from the much appreciated previous Burgess Hall at St Ives to a new Leisure Centre at Littleport. On the day the huge venue was shared with a large number of indoor bowls enthusiasts which meant there was a longish walk from the large car park to our hall. The hall itself was large enough but dog cages all around the hall gave rise to lots of noise and distraction from barking dogs which was very evident when listening to my dictaphone. At lunchtime, with lots of people all trying to use the cafe/restaurant at the same time, this caused long queues and even longer waiting times for food and drinks to arrive, which in turn meant the lunch break overran.
I had the honour of judging the first border terrier club show to schedule Champion dog and bitch classes.
Prior to the show I was undecided about such classes but having here seen the smallish entries for both Open and Champions on reflection I see little point or need for them.
As always coats were at various stages but the exhibits were with a few exceptions in good condition. All males were entire. Bites were better than at previous appointments and I only found a few with misplaced teeth, however the size of teeth varies considerably. Although not a fault, I noticed a few liver noses. Several exhibits could benefit from attention to feet to produce the small feet as required. Movement in general was better at the rear than in front with too many swinging fronts, moving wide or toeing in.
Limit - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
A dog I have appreciated from the ringside and does not disappoint on handling. I like his overall balance, type and outline. Good head with pleasing eye shape and expression. He is spannable, has good shoulders, well laid back, with a well angulated rear. With double coat and well set tail he moves with drive from behind.
The Northern Border Terrier Club Open Show
14th Apr 2018
Judge: Ms Judith Fawcett (Carrock)
I would firstly like to thank the Northern Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge their show and for their lovely hospitality – lunch was very tasty. Thank you also to the committee for their lovely gift. My two stewards, Graham Richardson and Geoff Sugars, kept things moving along nicely – well done. This was my first breed club show and I was absolutely delighted with the excellent entry – thank you to everyone for giving me the opportunity of going over your dogs. As expected coats were at various stages but on the whole were good; only a couple of exhibits on the day had no coat at all. All dogs were entire and there were no kinked tails. There were one or two missing or broken teeth, especially in the veteran class and one or two untidy mouths. I thoroughly enjoyed my day and was delighted with my main winners - I had some really good quality dogs to judge.
Best In Show
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Best Dog
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Limit - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
I have watched this dog from the ringside for a while now and was not disappointed today when I went over him. Just over 2 years old, he has a lovely head, strong muzzle and good bite. He has a keen expression with neat ear set. Straight front, and well angulated front and rear. He spans well with a good length of body and strong loin. Very sound and balanced on the move, he holds a super top line with a lovely carrot like tail well set on. Presented in a lovely new top coat with a good loose pelt. Not over done in any way, he stood out today and I was very pleased to award him BD and BIS.
West of England Ladies' Kennel Society
28th Apr 2018
Judge: Miss Anita Harrison (Iacheslei)
Many thanks to the society for inviting me to judge and to the exhibitors for a lovely entry of 117 making 151. My very efficient stewards did a marvelous job and kept the ring running well throughout the day. I thoroughly enjoyed my day and was pleased that exhibitors accepted my decisions in a sporting manner. There was a good atmosphere around the ring and all exhibits displayed good temperaments. I was disappointed to see so many large oversized dogs (and bitches) which were not able to be spanned. Movement was also a concern, I was forgiving of loose front movement in some of the youngsters, but both front and rear movement in some of the adult exhibits was poor. Many exhibits had large ears, low tail sets or short round ribs which had to be penalized. I was pleased with my main winners and delighted to see my Best of Breed shortlisted in the group and the Best Special Beginner placed 2nd in the SB group.
Limit - Dog /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Blackpool & District Canine Society
22nd Jun 2018
Judge: Mr Karl-Erik Johansson
I was most happy with such a good entry on this my first CC-appointment having had close contact with breed since the early 70s.
Overall size was excellent as was temperament. I was able to span almost everyone although I had hoped for more typical otter-heads. There were some long and narrow muzzles. Bites were excellent and Pelts mostly good for the season.
Conformation and movement coming and going was very good. Maybe I am a bit more concerned about side movement as some who was excellent standing lost the topline on the move.
Limit - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
Very nice type. Ex head, dark eyes. Ex confirmation. Short coat.
East of England Agricultural Society
6th Jul 2018
Judge: Mr Bob Wright (Totherend)
Many thanks to the East of England Agricultural Society for the opportunity to judge my fist Championship Show and to the excellent stewards who nursed me through with efficiency and humour. I was humbled by the size of entry and the willingness of the exhibitors to travel the length and breadth of the country despite the intense heat from which we tried to protect the dogs as much as possible.
I was particularly impressed by the quality of the open classes which were peppered with exhibits worthy of a ticket but unfortunately they only gave me two. A large number of exhibits were up to size and only just spannable but thankfully many of them were also narrow. I found one kinked tail, several borderline mouths and many promising exhibits that disappointed in the width or movement of their fronts. There was also a dearth of muscle particularly on the upper thighs but there were plenty of loose thick pelts and harsh coats. I was delighted not only with my winners but many of those who came close but regretfully had to leave empty handed despite being worthy of more.
RDCC
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Limit - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
Well balanced overall, typical head and stop, strong muzzle, keen expression, strong teeth with a good bite, well set ears, good reach of neck, narrow easy span, harsh double coat on thick loose pelt, level topline into well set carrot tail, straight front with well laid back shoulders, moved out well driving from behind on tight neat feet. RDCC.
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.
Limit - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
Very close up, Superb coat and pelt, Very strong head, well made with flowing lines, well let down hocks. Covers the ground on the move. Preferred hindquarters and ribbing of 1.
Class Critique
High quality class where several worthy dogs went without.
Leeds Championship Dog Show
29th Jul 2018
Judge: Mr Brian Baxter (Beenaben)
Limit - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
A handy sized dog, easily spanned, good bite, strong muscle, nice length of neck, thick pelt, moved true both ways.
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.
Limit - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
Good strong head, level topline with well set tail, which was rather long and bushy. Narrow front, well angulated hind quarters. Good coat,
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
RDCC
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Limit - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
Another dog with a most masculine head came very close and pushed 1st hard, very good double coat, built on strong lines but not overdone in any way. Reserve Dog CC
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.
RDCC
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Limit - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
grizzle dog, very close decision in this class, the same comments as for 1 but preferred the coat of 1. RDCC
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.
Limit - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
Grizzle dog. Moved every bit as well as first and was also spannable with correct rib and strong loin. A good headed dog with correct mouth. Another fine example. Just preferred the coat of first today.
Class Critique
A very nice class of good quality border males.
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 .
Limit - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Wolsingham & Wear Valley Open Show
2nd Sep 2018
Judge: Mr R Wright (Borderexpress)
Many thanks to the officers and committee of Wolsingham & Wear Valley open show for the invite to judge on the day and also the exhibitors that supported my super entry on the day. This is a lovely well organised show and supported tremendously by the local community. Also delighted to see my BOB go Terrier Group 1 and not to be outdone by the Best Puppy also following suit and taking Puppy Group 1 – well done.
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG1, Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
2 1/2 Y/O Grizzle & Tan dog in super fit condition on the day, cracking head with super big teeth and dark eye. Nice in the shoulder/rib and easily spannable, nice crisp jacket and best movement in the class. My BOB today and nice to see him go on and secure his Terrier Group 1 win – well done.
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.
Limit - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
This is a grand dog. All male but not overdone. Good head with clean balanced shape. Neck flows through decent forehand, spans and has long ribs to developed loin. Quality jacket, racy quarters. Strong set on and tail set. Free easy mover.
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.
Open - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
ONE I’VE ADMIRED FROM THE RINGSIDE, OVERALL HE DID’NT DISAPPOINT EXCEPT HE HAD NO COAT TODAY & I HAVE TO JUDGE THEM ON THE DAY.MASCULINE HEAD SHORT MUZZLE & STRONG JAW, CORRECT MOUTH, GOOD WIDTH OF SKULL,GOOD EAR SET, GOOD NECK WELL LAID SHOULDERS, NARROW THROUGHTOUT ,NEAT FEET,CORRECT ANGULATION, MOVED WITH DRIVE.
The Midland Border Terrier Club Open Show
4th Nov 2018
Judge: Mr. Paul Cheeseman (Bromscar)
Open - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
this grizzle and tan also looked very nice standing in line, everything seemed to be nicely in place, but once again movement was very poor
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Championship Show
10th Nov 2018
Judge: Mrs Charlotte Archibald (Tweedburn)
My sincere thanks to the Scottish Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge their Championship show, one of my favourites. Also my thanks to the exhibitors for allowing me the privilege to judge their dogs.
My main concern is size and weight, it really does matter, there were a number of exhibits that were too heavy/big, and at the other end of the spectrum, not enough muscle/bone/condition, which is essential for a working dog. However, I was very happy with the main winners, and both line ups.
Open - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
another very attractive exhibit, lovely expression, finer set than the first two, also lacking in jacket, would have like a little more condition/muscle, moved out well on neat feet.
Penrith & District Open Show
9th Dec 2018
Judge: Mr M Oxley
Open /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
Good for size and easily spanned, liked his head, strong muzzle, good mouth and bite, good reach of neck, straight front, nice feet and thick pads, level topline with well set tail, moved well.
Ladies Kennel Association
16th Dec 2018
Judge: Mrs. K. Wilkinson (Otterkin)
Thanks to the exhibitors for a super entry of Border Terriers. As I repeatedly say, the shows are about the dogs and the exhibitors and are not held for the benefit of the judges, so I appreciated the honour of going over your dogs. Thanks also to the ring stewards Angie Feildsend and Andrea Caudrelier who kept everything flowing smoothly so that we finished in good time. With an entry of 148 dogs making 159 entries, we had the highest entry in the Terrier Group and what a lovely entry it was that awaited me on 16th December. As my finalists came into the ring for each set of CCs, I thought "I like all these!!"
After the show was over, I was told that the four dogs I had brought together at the top of the ring, when deciding on the Dog CC, were all related to one dog and in fact three of them were by that same dog, one I have often referred to in the past when discussing stud dogs with people, as a dog who consistently puts breed type on his progeny, so I was thrilled to be told that Ch Grindelvald In Full Cry JW sired three of the dogs and was the great grandsire of the fourth and to confirm that in the catalogue later. Congratulations to Mrs Margaret Bailey on breeding and owning a dog who clearly puts his breed type stamp on his progeny.
Unless something changes drastically with the Judges Competency Framework, this will be my last General Championship Show appointment and so, when asking for the name of the dog to whom I had awarded the CC and Best of Breed at the end when I was filling in the Award Cards, it was fitting that I then found out his name was Dassett Last Waltz JW. So pleased to later see him pulled out in the shortcut in the Terrier Group. Good luck for the future.
Open - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
Another very hard decision in this class. This boy has a lovely refined otterhead with a straight front and excellent length of body, with ribs carried well back. Tail well set on. Lovely hindquarters. Another considered for the CC. His day will come.
Crufts
9th Mar 2019
Judge: Mrs Trak Fryer (Irton)
A very great thank you to the exhibitors for giving me such a superb entry, I hope that I did it justice. My thanks must also go to my Stewards who worked very hard to keep the classes moving well.
This was a very challenging entry with some very big classes filled with quality dogs all the way through, there were no easy decisions. I tried to pull out all the dogs that I felt were in contention to give those exhibits a closer look. This meant that those out of coat or condition paid the penalty. particularly in the upper classes many super quality dogs had to go out without a place - I just didn't have enough cards.
On the plus side all the exhibits were good tempered and happy in the ring. Most dogs came with a good coat on and a decent pelt. There were plenty of good heads and neat well balanced Borders, the key to the Standard. The Breed Standard asks for a dog that can run, requiring heart and lung room, and that can go to ground, requiring a good rib carried back without exaggerated angulations, a rather challenging blueprint to fit into a fairly small package.
There were quite a number with rather heavy or thin ears, round eyes and I was surprised to find quite a number of “winter noses”; I did not necessarily penalise these if the rest was OK. There were a number of heads with weak jaws framed by sticky out ears, a worrying trend. There were some heavy bitches well beyond spannable.
The biggest problem is movement with the forward angulations mostly at fault, this has been a problem in the breed for some time but there are now a significant number with tied in fronts waving their forelegs about, a new variant!
A well made dog will just cover the ground without any fuss or flipping – a joy to see. In order to do this they also need a reasonable build of muscle and it is a constant concern of mine that so many that come into the show ring do not have this.
RDCC
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Limit - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
Another lovely dog in top form today and pushing hard for top honours. Good head, neck and shoulder , moving well and looking sparkling, couldn’t quite match my first today but did enough to secure the Reserve CC in some pretty tough competition.
Class Critique
A splendid class of dogs headed by two outstanding examples.
Whitehaven and District Canine Association Open Show
17th Mar 2019
Judge: Mrs M Armstrong (Carrickfarm)
Thank you to the Committee of Whitehaven and District Canine Association for inviting me to judge Border Terriers at their Open Show and for the excellent hospitality and the lovely lunch you provided. I had a super entry and thank the Exhibitors for allowing me the privilege to go over their dogs. I enjoyed the day.
Best Dog
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Open - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
Well balanced grizzle with masculine head and varminty expression, strong scissor bite. Good angulation, good topline and tailset. Double coat of correct texture and moved out well with drive although a little close in front. BD, BOS.
The Border Terrier Club Championship Show
30th Mar 2019
Judge: Mrs Denise Townsend (Llanishen)
Thank you to the officers, committee and members of the Border Terrier Club for awarding the honour of judging this prestigious show and for giving me such a warm welcome. The show had a wonderfully friendly atmosphere and I hope everyone enjoyed the day as much as I did. Many thanks to all exhibitors for their entries, and for allowing me the opportunity to go over their dogs, something I consider a privilege. My stewards Judy and Judith looked after me perfectly and kept everything moving smoothly.
I was very pleased with my winners and with the overall standard of the entry. Some causes for concern included a small number of wry mouths in the early dog classes, exhibits with barely any undercoat and some heads which were lacking strength in their under-jaw.
RDCC
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Open - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
I really liked this dog and he was unlucky to come up against my winner today. Very typical with good conformation and much to admire. Topline maintained on the move. Excellent harsh coat and pleasing otter head. RDCC.
National Terrier
6th Apr 2019
Judge: Mr Eddie Houston
My thanks to the Society for inviting me, to my stewards Dave and Pat who kept things moving and most especially to all the exhibitors for entering and allowing me the privilege of going over their dogs.
I was very pleased with my main winners and there was a lot of quality in the puppy classes which should augur well for the future. Temperaments were excellent, all males were entire and there were no serious mouth faults.
On the minus side there were quite a number of animals of both sexes which were up to size and front movement is a real problem throughout the age range. A few dogs were carrying too much weight and a couple could have done with carrying a bit more. There were a number of dogs lacking in muscle-ours is a working breed and an unfit dog would not be able to fulfill the job of a working terrier.
DCC
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Open - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
Eye catching grizzle.Much to like about him.Lovely head and expression,correct size,easily spanned.Well constructed and sound on the move.He has a super coat overlying a loose pelt and a well shaped,well set on tail.Beautifully presented and well handled. Dog CC.
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.
DCC
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Best In Show
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Open - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
Really liked this dog. So typical of the breed, Just right for size. Pleasing head with strong muzzle. Good lay of shoulder. Ribs carried well back. Strong loin. Narrow and spans well. Harsh coat with a thick loose pelt. Moved so well. Presented in lovely condition. A credit to his owner. DCC And BOB.
The Northern Border Terrier Club Open Show
13th Apr 2019
Judge: Anna Duxbury (Ridgebow)
I would very much like to thank the officers and committee for offering me my first club show in this lovely light, large hall. The hospitality was wonderful! Thanks also to the efficient ring stewards and most of all to all the exhibitors for their wonderful entry and allowing me the privilege of going over their dogs. Sincere thanks for the sporting manner in which my decisions were accepted. Temperaments on the day were excellent, coats were very varied - some good dogs were penalised for not having double coat. No mouths were undershot and all male dogs were entire.
Open - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
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.
Best Dog
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Best In Show
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Open - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
Balanced, 3 yr old shown in correct double coat . Lovely masculine otterhead with good bite.Narrow spannable and good length of rib, with well angulated rear. Tail well set on and carried well on the move ,moved with ease around the ring. Pleased to award him B.I.S.
Sunderland & DCS Premier Open Show
21st Apr 2019
Judge: Mr. Stewart Golding (Beaconpike)
Many thanks to the committee for a lovely day and to the exhibitors for a super entry.
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
Strong headed dog with lots of ring presence and handled and shown beautifully I really liked his size easily spanned shown in super double jacket, sadly in the challenge he wasn’t moving as well as my best of breed.
West of England Ladies' Kennel Society
28th Apr 2019
Judge: Mrs L A Crawley
Open - Dog /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Joint Border Terrier Clubs' Championship Show
5th May 2019
Judge: Mrs Su Williams (Hollybridge)
I would like to thank The Border Terrier Club for the invitation & thank my 2 very capable Stewards Carolyn Richardson & Liz Barrett for their help on the day. I would also like to thank those exhibitors who entered under me and who accepted the placing's sportingly. I was pleased to have a number of high quality entries but the down side of that is, some good dogs went card less
Mouths are a bit of a worry as I noticed a few with a tooth or teeth out of line, small teeth and one even undershot. Movement on the whole was good especially in my winners. Coats & Pelts were good too,with just a few thin pelted dogs.
Open - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
Another lovely dog with pleasing head and expression, I liked his overall balance in outline, sadly on the day he didn’t move as positive in front as 1st though it was a close call. A very attractive breed typical dog
Leeds Championship Dog Show
26th Jul 2019
Judge: Mr T Tuck (Nettleby)
Thanks to all exhibitors for providing a really good entry, and thanks also to my calm and efficient steward for helping to make this a thoroughly enjoyable appointment. The heatwave temperature had thankfully dropped and the covered half of the ring provided very comfortable conditions.
I was thrilled with my final line up in dogs and bitches. In particular, I thought the Reserve CC and CC winners were very typical, high quality and honest all round border terriers. It is always very exciting and satisfying to see borders of such a high calibre at the top end of the range.
It is difficult to make generalisations, as strengths and weaknesses varied considerably across the total entry. I found numerous decent, moderately broad heads, some of which had the classic otter-like appearance, strong muzzle and keen expression. Overall size and correct balanced proportions seemed reasonably consistent, and I don’t recall any of the well over-sized and coarser types that one sometimes encounters. I thought hind quarters were good overall, though straight fronts and well laid shoulders were less common. Coats varied, as they always do, though I would have liked to find a few more that combined the really harsh topcoat, good undercoat, and thick pelt. Was this just due to the state of individual coats on the day, or is the weatherproof coat and jacket receiving less attention?
Any of the above observations are, of course, based on the entry on the day and are not necessarily a pronouncement on the breed as a whole!
Open - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: CH Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
Another masculine and well proportioned border. Typical otter-like head, good neck, spannable ribs and well angulated quarters, with a nice turn of stifle and good second thigh. I liked his overall outline, just beaten by the exceptional conformation and front of the winner.
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.
Open - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: CH Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
quality young male & worthy of his title, in profile his picture is of balance & correct in size, has the desired otter head shape, correct dentition, clean in neck & front, spannable ribs of correct shape, excellent in top line, racy quarters, small neat feet & tail well set & of correct length, he has a loose pelt and perfectly presented coat of correct texture, one I strongly considered for top honours
Welsh Kennel Club
17th Aug 2019
Judge: Miss T Peacock
I was honoured to be invited to judge the Welsh Kennel Cub Ch. Show. The entry was excellent both in quality and quantity, It was a pleasure to go over such quality exhibits. Movement was variable and some exhibits moved okay coming an going but lacked drive.
Open - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: CH Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
The Scottish Kennel Club
25th Aug 2019
Judge: Mr Richard Allen (Penparc)
RDCC
Name at show: CH Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Open - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: CH Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
Another quality dog with a very good outline. Correct eye, muzzle, big teeth. Unluckily to meet first on top form today. RDCC.
Richmond Championship Show
7th Sep 2019
Judge: Mr John Bainbridge (Risdene)
In this day of mentoring I make no apologies for restating the main criteria I apply in my judging. The standard states that the border terrier is essentially a working terrier and it should be able to follow a horse. Therefore I require a dog deep in chest but well ribbed back providing ample heart and lung room which will enable it to travel and be present when and if required to flush the quarry, narrow throughout and spannable to enable it to go to ground, head like that of a otter with strong muzzle and big teeth to help protect from any attack of the quarry, harsh double coat and thick skin as protection from the elements whilst underground or on the moors, good temperament to mix with the hounds and able to be handled as necessary.
I felt that most of my winners met this criteria and my report concentrates on the dogs distinguishing points that resulted in its placing. However no dog is perfect and that is where the judgement comes in and remember opinions from the ring side do not always hold up on closer inspection.
Open - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: CH Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
The Northern Border Terrier Club Open Show
5th Oct 2019
Judge: Mrs. L. Roberts (Mindlen)
I would like to thank the officers and committee for inviting me to judge their open show the hospitality was second to none. Thanks must also go to the efficient stewards and sporting exhibitors for their support would like to thank the officers and committee for inviting me to judge their open show the hospitality was second to none. Thanks must also go to the efficient stewards and sporting exhibitors for their support
Best In Show
Name at show: CH Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Best Dog
Name at show: CH Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Open - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: CH Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
Workmanlike dog. Excelled in head eye and ear. Lovely narrow front and good feet. Spans well flexible nicely balanced body. Racy rear which was well muscled. Excellent coat and pelt. Moved and handled well
South Wales Kennel Association
12th Oct 2019
Judge: Mrs M Wanless (Thorneyburn)
My thanks go to SWKA for their kind invitation to judge at this good venue. Also to my stewards Sue and Wendy who kept things flowing.
Thank you too all those who entered and accepted my decisions so sportingly. All mouths were good, all dogs entire and coat quality was excellent , especially in the dog classes. Pleased with my winners, and my final line-up, and to see my bob and bp be shortlisted in their groups.
Open - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: CH Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
3+year old grizzle. A very sound dog, excels in head with strong jaw, big white teeth, dark eye , and neat ears. He has a strong neck into a pleasing body ,good rib, spannable, with a harsh coat on a thick pelt. A straight front led to neat feet. He moved well holding a level top-line.
Crufts
8th Mar 2020
Judge: Mr Simon Jackson (Clipstone)
Firstly, I would like to thank the Kennel Club for allowing me the honour of judging this Border Terrier Centenary year. I also thank my excellent stewards for keeping me on track and to everybody who gave me such a fantastic entry, both in numbers and quality across all classes. To be blunt, I don't think I have ever seen and enjoyed such a very high quality entry before. Unfortunately many good exhibits went home unrewarded. Several classes the placed exhibits could have all stood in first place. I really was splitting hairs. I can honestly say that I really enjoyed myself and hope everybody else did too. I'd also like to thank Joyce Martin and my son, Laurence Jackson, for the excellent photographs which has made the writing of this critique so much easier. I understand Laurence also live-streamed the CC's and BOB – technology far above me – but thanks!
Open - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: CH Cedarhill Ghost Writer JW
Placing Critique
Really nice typy dog with close, hard coat and thick pelt. Keen intelligent expression and strong otter head, such strength continuing through the front, loin and quarters. Great topline. Shown beautifully. Was well up in consideration for top honours.
Class Critique
A really enjoyable class to judge. The standard was consistent throughout the class.
