Show Placings
East of England Championship Show
8th Jul 2021
Judge: Mr Ian Hopper (Esyntona)
My thanks go to the East of England committee for inviting me to judge the show. Thank you to my two stewards who efficiently helped exhibitors to follow the corvid regulations in place for the show.
For quite a lot of the younger dogs it was there first show due to the lockdown they all handled it well.
All teeth were ok a few of the dogs were just spannable there was no problem with the bitches
I was pleased with my final line ups for dogs and bitches and the main winners I feel could still carry out the work they were bred for if required.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Glebeheath Button It
Placing Critique
Grizzle bitch typical head, scissor bit good ear set in good coat on a loose pelt moved out well.
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.
Limit - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Glebeheath Button It
Placing Critique
griz/t, b of good breed type, lovely otter head, neat well placed ears, dark eye, correct bite, good run-in & layback, easily spanned, well ribbed to firm loin, well muscled quarters, low hocks, good pelt & coat of correct texture, moved well fore & aft, should do well,
The Midland Border Terrier Club Championship Show
1st Aug 2021
Judge: Mrs C Archibald (Dogs) Mrs L M Ward (Bitches) Ref Mr T Tuck
Referee’s Report:
I was asked to make the final decisions for BIS, Res BIS, BOS, and Best Veteran. It was a real pleasure to go over these quality borders.
BIS: I thought that the dog Brewster and Green’s Stowthorney Wicker Man JW, and the bitch Irving’s Dandyhow Pandora, were both eye-catching borders though quite different. The dog was very well constructed throughout, with a typical otter-like head, strong muzzle and large teeth. He had good angulation front and rear, moved well, and was in good coat. The bitch was a handy size, with an attractive outline and balanced overall proportions. She also had a thick pelt and correct coat though I think it was not yet at its best. I just favoured the dog for BIS on the strength of his head, his overall outline, and coat on the day.
Res BIS: I felt that Tuffin’s Hartswelin Veritas with Oatberry edged it over the bitch for similar reasons to those given above. He shared a lot of qualities with BIS, having a lovely outline and angulation, a good otter-like head, and an excellent coat and pelt.
BOS: Irving’s Dandyhow Pandora.
Best Veteran: Both veterans were eye-catching and typical borders, with very good coats. The dog, Jackson’s Clipstone Starshine, had a lovely head and expression, and I liked his outline and overall proportions. The bitch, Dean’s Ch Cedarhill Wish Upon a Star, had balanced proportions and she was very well constructed all through. I thought her neat front and shoulders, plus her hind angulation gave her the edge for Best Veteran.
Referee: Terence Tuck
DOGS
My sincere thanks to the MBTC for inviting me to judge the dogs at this show. Also thank you to all the exhibitors for their support. A very convivial atmosphere, it was so good to be out and about with dogs again. The weather did it's best to stay fair, ideal temperature for dog showing. I found movement still to be an issue, particularly front, also small teeth, the odd broken or missing tooth, and some dirty teeth too! Size and weight need to be addressed - some too heavy, the other end of the spectrum, needed a good feed!! Jackets at various stages, good to see some exhibits in full coat, a rarity these days. I was very happy with my winners and pleased the referee agreed in part.
BITCHES
Many thanks to the club for the invitation to judge, to the exhibitors for a nice entry and my steward Carol Smith for keeping the ring running smoothly.
As ever at this show the atmosphere was relaxed and friendly but was tinged today with poignancy by the sad loss of so many of our good friends. I must mention Dawn Bladen who has been a close friend since 1995 when we had a litter brother and sister by my dog. On principle Dawn didn’t show under me so would again have been at the ringside today with her camera. We miss them all and hope to continue to see their families and friends amongst us.
There was a noticeable diversity in both type and overall size today. My chief concern was exhibits that came very heavily to hand and often in combination with being very difficult (for a man’s hands) to span. It really needs to be addressed if we are to keep the Border “Essentially a working terrier”, as the standard lays down.
There was only one mouth with misplaced teeth and I was especially pleased to find so many otter-like heads.
Coats were generally good for texture and depth and good undercoats on thick pelts predominated. B/T jackets were especially harsh and dense and I aplaud the breeders who have achieved this huge improvement compared to the B/Ts of the 90’s.
Today tough pads were plentiful but it was a pity that feet on some exhibits appeared to be bigger and flatter than they actually were when this could be easily remedied by trimming.
Tails seem to get thinner and longer each time I judge. In this entry we have overcome the problem of kinks that was evident for some years but with the loss of the desired carroty shape and moderately short length which finishes off the typical Border outline.
Overall I was pleased to find good fitness and muscle tone plus good condition and only one that needed a good dinner and a couple that had obviously enjoyed too many.
I was very happy with my lineup and fully expect to see several going on to the higher honours which they narrowly missed out on today.
My colleague judge and I cordially agreed to disagree when it came to the final accolades (in each case having a preference for the sex we had judged) so referee Tez Tuck was kept busy to the very end with his decisions accepted with good grace by the exhibitors.
Limit - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Glebeheath Button It
Placing Critique
Stepped into the ring and instantly owned it. Moved soundly with well laid shoulder and rear angulation enabling good reach and drive with topline kept. Feminine head with ears close to cheek. Seriously considered in the challenge.
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.
BCC
Name at show: Glebeheath Button It
Limit - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Glebeheath Button It
Placing Critique
wow Factor when i seen this bitch, oozes breed type, Otter type head, dark eyes. strong punishing jaw, neat ears, good length of neck, nice bone straight legs standing on good feet thick pads, easily spanned ,ribs well back with Racey hindquarters, her jacket in A1 condition, she got movement to die for honoured to give her the first CC should make it to the top house easily
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 Of Breed
Name at show: Glebeheath Button It
BCC
Name at show: Glebeheath Button It
Limit - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Glebeheath Button It
Placing Critique
Really super b, ideal proportions, in super coat and such a good mover. She has a fem head of strength. Correct neck. Well laid shoulder. Well ribbed back with enough length to loin. V good rear. Nice feel. Quality girl, who for me stood away today. CC & BOB
Blackpool & District Canine Society
22nd Aug 2021
Judge: Mrs P McLellan (Breconbeds)
My thanks to Blackpool & District Canine Society for the invitation to judge BorderTerriers, and thank you to my two very efficient stewards who kept things moving along in the ring.
Sadly today, rudeness to the stewards and a lack of sportsmanship seem to be on the increase.
BCC
Name at show: Glebeheath Button It
Limit - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Glebeheath Button It
Placing Critique
Quality bitch. Beautiful head and reach of neck. Great muscle tone and very sound on the move. Level topline and well set on tail. Absolute picture in profile. No hesitation in awarding her the BCC – her 3rd.
The East Anglia Border Terrier Club Championship Show
29th Aug 2021
Judge: Mrs Janet Lee (Tythrop)
My thanks to the Officers & Committee for inviting me to judge their show , & for the excellent ring stewards Mr Brewster & Mrs Armstrong who made the day run smoothly & kept me going with refreshments ! I enjoyed being with fellow BT fanciers & their dogs , as I always do .
I had a very good entry come forward & after such a long time away from the ring , a few were ring rusty & some youngsters were a little overawed , which I considered quite acceptable given so many had missed out on their early education & socialisation & tried to give them opportunity to shine , though a few very nice dogs could have been higher placed but the occasion was too much for them .
I found very good examples , but also had some whose construction fell a little short of the standard …….deep unspannable bodies or brisket below elbow standing or on the move on much shorter than their depth legs , forward placed & too little angulation in their fronts due to upright shoulders & short steep upper arms which shorten their strides or make them goosestep , & flat croups with extra high set tails carried like hound sterns ,or conversely short steep croups with low tailsets , often thin & long tails too & some poor downhill or lumpy/hinged toplines became apparent in profile movement , however the most common thing that struck me was how many have too little bone in pasterns & east-west feet when our standard calls for straight legs & good tight feet . As I lift every dog to see how their fronts ‘’drop’’ into place I found lack of bone through pasterns into feet was a common fault today & so some had feet not facing forward naturally . Most came in good condition , but a few were too thin & their pelvic bones were sticking up & they felt shelly with no depth of loin so their rears lacked muscle accordingly , conversely a handful had indulged during lockdown a little too much ! Coats were as ever , mixed , but the top winners all came in very good order with double coats .
RBCC
Name at show: Glebeheath Button It
Limit - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Glebeheath Button It
Placing Critique
Stylish quality 20m grizzle with clean balanced outline both standing & on the move .Feminine head , dark eye , good bite . Good reach of neck with narrow front & clean well laid shoulders , narrow body with good length of rib that is easily spanned , firm in backline with good underline , picks up light , and has well angulated rear with correctly set & carried tail .. Moved very well with accuracy , freedom & long stride , in double coat well presented . Think her best is yet to come as not the finish in head or body yet as Duchess , being younger & a late maturing type . Close decision , RBCC .
Crufts
11th Mar 2022
Judge: Mrs. Margaret Curtis (Matamba)
Crufts has always been a memorable experience for me, from sitting ringside to winning top honours in this breed, and to retire from judging with my last appointment being Crufts was a special occasion. Many thanks to all the exhibitors for the entry of 233 dogs making 257 entries with 28 absentees.
It was a long day and with only one steward for almost all of the classes my sincere thanks must go to Robyn Burnett. Plus a special thanks to Judy Carr for stepping in to help Robyn in those last big classes to help us finish just in time to get the BOB to the Group. Also to Joyce Martin the photographer who worked hard throughout the day to get those special pictures, thank you. I enjoyed my day judging but found some of the classes quite challenging.
I was pleased with the lineup and my principal winners, but a little disappointed with what I was finding when the dogs came to the table. The standard reads “Head like that of an otter moderately broad in skull and small ears dropping close to cheek” but some were so untypical of our breed with narrow skulls, weak jaws and small teeth, with ears that were too big and standing away from the cheek.
In every class there were some that just could not be spanned - being too deep in the chest and strong in the rib. Movement was better behind than in front. Finding dogs with a short upper arm, this not only restricts the movement but when standing almost gives a Fox Terrier type front which I was seeing, to start accepting these deviations as acceptable would be a sad day for our breed as we know it.
General condition of the dogs was good, jackets came in all stages mostly acceptable with some good thick pelts. One problem I found today was the baiting of dogs on the table. In some cases it made it hard going for dogs and judge - no need to top and tail and bait all at the same time - personally I just needed the dogs to stand still.
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Placing Critique
Presented in first class order. Very feminine head and expression, good reach of neck and topline correct tail well set on. Came nicely to hand on the table well balanced in all departments. Harsh jacket with good undercoat and pelt, moved around the ring well.
The Border Terrier Club Championship Show
26th Mar 2022
Judge: Dr. Ron Wheatley (Loiriston)
I was very privileged and honoured to judge this excellent show and would like to thank the members of the Border Terrier Club for their invitation, and the committee for their help and hospitality. The committee and members had provided a wonderful range of Specials and mementos to celebrate the Centenary of the Club. Many thanks to my very efficient ring stewards, Carol Mackenzie, and Judy Carr, for their help through a long day. Thanks also to the exhibitors for the large entry of 183 dogs, making 223 entries with 43 absent, which ranged over many types. There was quality in depth in many classes with close decisions. I found no kinky tails, two exhibits with one missing front tooth, and a few bites that had worn even. Coats as might be expected were at different stages, most in good coat and a few with the top just coming through.
Open - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Placing Critique
Another nice one with good head, teeth and jaw. Good body, with excellent coat and pelt. Moved well.
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.
BCC
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Placing Critique
an eyecatching bitch, she is a lovely size with correct bone. Her head is a good otter shape with a strong muzzle and correct scissor bite. Lovely expression and neat ears. Neck was of a good length with nicely laid shoulders. She is easily spanned with racy qualities. Her front was straight with neat feet. Hindquarters were angulated and second thigh was evident. Her overall outline was good, topline was straight and carried her carrot shaped tail well. Movement was sound both ways. BCC
The East Anglia Border Terrier Club Championship Show
18th Apr 2022
Judge: Mr M. Hollingsbee (Otterwood)
I would like to thank the Committee of the Club for entrusting me to judge this
show. Due to my age I have decided that this will be my last appointment at this
level. I would like to thank my able stewards Sarah Pateman and Kay Tuffin for
keeping me in order and ensuring a smooth running of the show. All of the
Committee worked very hard and I thank them.
Having said that, what a lovely standard of dogs were placed before me. Overall
coats were excellent and I did not detect one bad mouth. The only criticism I have is
that a few exhibits did not have the feet and nails trimmed.
Open - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Placing Critique
Another well proportioned bitch, lovely confirmation, strong body and moved well.
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.
RBCC
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Placing Critique
lovely size grizzle bitch with a good otter head and strong muzzle; dark eyes with feminine expression and neat ears. Nice neck flowing into good shoulders; straight, narrow front, good legs and feet; harsh coat and thick, loose pelt. She has a lovely outline, narrow and spannable with a level topline and neat tail. She is well-balanced and moved well. RBCC
Windsor Championship Dog Show
1st Jul 2022
Judge: Mr David G Winsley (Davmar)
I last judged the breed in 2017 so most of the dogs were new to me. I felt that the breed is losing that ‘ otter head’ appearance, fore-faces appearing to be too long. Poor front construction in many was a deciding factor in my placing, our ring didn’t help, but the conditions were the same for everyone.
BCC
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Placing Critique
All together a very nice type who takes your eye straight away. Very pleasing head, good reach of neck that’s fits into her well made shoulders. Good front, well made body, good ribs & a level back. Well muscled hindquarters, correct tailset. Good amount of bone & good feet. In a short coat but good texture, ultra sound fluent mover, confident showgirl. CC/BOS
East of England
9th Jul 2022
Judge: Mr Bob Blackley (Vaevictus)
BCC
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Best Of Breed
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Placing Critique
Fabulous bitch, winner of this strong class, she stood out, good size shape and balance, well constructed, and complemented by a typical otter head, moved well both ways with good reach and drive, and good width front and rear, excellent coat and pelt
Leeds Championship Dog Show
22nd Jul 2022
Judge: Mrs J Fawcett (Carrock)
My thanks to the Leeds City & District Canine Association for their kind invitation to judge their Championship show, enabling me to award my first set of Challenge Certificates. Thank you also to my two stewards, Mags & Bob, who kept the ring running smoothly throughout the day which meant we managed to finish by 3pm before the rain came. My biggest thanks go to all the exhibitors for giving me the opportunity to go over their dogs and for the sporting manner in which my decisions were accepted – I had a fantastic entry for a show taking place on a Friday and in the holiday season – I was absolutely delighted.
Just a comment about the ring – the rather large metal tent fixings that took up quite a lot of the ring were a bit of a hazard. However, I believe we managed to work around them well and I was able to see the movement of all the exhibits.
As you would expect, coats were at various stages but on the whole most were acceptable. All dogs were entire, there were no kinked tails and just one or two untidy mouths. When I last judged in November 2019 my main concern was size and this still remains an issue - I was unable to span quite a number of both dogs & bitches on the day and this was reflected in my decisions. Poor front angulation also seems to be an issue – a number of upright shoulders and a lot of very wayward front legs. I thought it also relevant to mention the number of long, thin muzzles, particularly in the younger classes, that seem to be creeping into the breed - Border Terriers should have short, strong muzzles.
That all said, I had some quality dogs to judge – I thoroughly enjoyed my day.
Open - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Placing Critique
Another lovely bitch, slightly more of her than 1 and not quite as easy to span. That said, she is well put together with a typical head, good length of muzzle and good bite. She had a good reach of neck, well placed shoulders and good length of rib. Well presented in a harsh topcoat and good pelt. Moved out accurately and with drive. Unlucky to meet 1 today.
Class Critique
This was a very difficult class to judge!
Paignton Championship Show
6th Aug 2022
Judge: Mr Graham Pickering (Picer)
It was an honour to be asked to judge at Paignton & District Fanciers Association. My thanks go to the officers and committee for their kind invitation to judge Border Terriers and their excellent hospitality. I had a lovely day at this well organised show and would like to also thank the stewards, Helen & Norma, for keeping me on track and in order. The weather was exceptionally hot and although I do like to judge outside, I am sure exhibitors, and their dogs were grateful for the shade and cool that being inside gave us.
Although I did not have a huge entry, I was fortunate to have some real quality dogs entered and had some very hard decisions to make, however, at the end of judging I was delighted with my winners. On the downside, I did find some mouths that were not as they should be and some dogs who were deep in chest and therefore difficult to span. However, the most disappointing element was the lack of detail that some exhibitors pay to feet. The standard states that feet should be ‘small with thick pads’, however, quite a few exhibits had untidy feet with long nails. Although this seems minor point, long hair around the feet detracts from the overall look of the Border Terrier.
I was disappointed that I could not stay to watch the group, but unfortunately, I had to leave due to other commitments. I was delighted that all my top winners were shortlisted in the group and very pleased that my Special Beginner winner went Group 1 and the Best Puppy winner went Group 3.
RBCC
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Placing Critique
A well put together grizzle bitch, shown in tiptop condition, excellent double coat and not overdone in anyway. Typical otter head, with broad skull, correct length of muzzle and an excellent scissor bite with large white teeth. She has lovely dark eyes and a keen expression which shows her character. She has a good reach of neck, well placed shoulders, narrow straight front and stands on small, tight feet with thick pads. Moved with drive and purpose around the ring. Pushed hard in the challenge, close decision with Junior Bitch winner and I was pleased to award her RBCC.
Class Critique
A lovely class with quality exhibits being shown.
Bournemouth Championship Show
13th Aug 2022
Judge: Mr. David Matthews (Tojamatt)
Many thanks to Bournemouth Canine Association for asking me to judge, and also thanks to my two more than able stewards. It was a really hot day topping 35 degrees C, if I had entered I wouldnt have attened so I understand perfectly why we had quite a few absentees, and a outbreak of covid from a previous show, added to this ,many thanks to everyone who entered. I had some really nice examples of the breed to go over, and some hard decisions. The tent provided us with some much needed shade, and the dogs behaved very well and coped with the heat admirably. I had a couple of dogs not move as well as I know they can so gave them another opportunity to move again, and they put in a much better performance .The dogs were all presented in good order, clean teeth, short nails and tidy coats. A few coats were outstanding, harsh and dense, among the best I’ve come across.
BCC
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Best Of Breed
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Placing Critique
Grizzle and tan bitch, 2 and half years old of excellent proportions, cracking head, big teeth, enough strength there but not overdone, good expression with dark eye and neat well placed ears, a good length of neck and correct shoulder placement, good in rib and loin with nice rear assembly producing plenty of drive when on the move, a level topline and tailset, she was shown in a thick harsh double jacket, loose thick pelt and just powered around the ring, a pleasure to go over, she is a great example of our breed. Pleased to award her the BCC and BOB.
Welsh Kennel Club
21st Aug 2022
Judge: Mr T Johnston
BCC
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Placing Critique
Lovely balanced feminine head, dark eye good ears. Good neck into well-built front and stands on good feet. Good rib, loin and racy in rear. Tail well set and in good harsh coat with good pelt. Balanced and of good type and holds a lovely picture on active positive movement BCC
Driffield Championship Dog Show
26th Aug 2022
Judge: Mrs Anne Heathcote (Saxheath)
I would like to thank you all for allowing me to go over your dogs and also our Stewards John and Marvin for keeping everything running smoothly enabling me to finish in good time .
I have to say that I found movement in a number of classes worrying . Although most dogs looked ok in profile when viewed from the front and rear there were too many moving closely and a few flicking wrists . This was reflected in my placings with the soundest being placed highest .
Mouths were good with just one level bite but there were both dogs and bitches which I could not span . Coats were , on the whole , pretty good .
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Placing Critique
Well balanced gr with a lovely head and expression ,good reach of neck into a level topline , good tailset and hind angulation and as usual with this kennel put down to perfection and handled expertly . Sound mover .
City of Birmingham Championship Show
3rd Sep 2022
Judge: Mrs K Newsome (Kighills)
I would like to thank the City of Birmingham committee for inviting me to judge the Border terriers today. It was a most enjoyable day and to top it off I had some quality dogs and bitches to go over. I would also like to thank the exhibitors for their entries and excepting my decisions.
The quality of borders were good and adhered to the breed standard. All mouths were good and all the dogs were entire. Heads on the whole were very good but some lacked a strong broad muzzle. The movement was good and many moved with drive. Many coats were harsh and thick and pelts were nice and loose. I would like to see some exhibitors pay a little attention to trimming the feet and nails.
It would also benefit a few exhibitors to take their young dogs to ring-craft more to socialise them. This would get them use to unfamiliar situations i.e. hands on the dog etc.
To my surprise my main winners Best Puppy Dog, 2nd Grad Bitch, Bitch CC & Bitch RCC were all related to the Glebeheath Kennels so well done to you.
RBCC
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Placing Critique
Feminine head with pleasing expression good mouth, good depth and well balanced throughout was easily spannable, lovely harsh double coat and thick pelt moved really well front and rear, good tight feet and pads. RCC
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.
Open - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Crufts
11th Mar 2023
Judge: Mr David Shields (Wilholme)
To judge Border Terriers at Crufts was both a privilege and a honour and I must thank the Crufts Committee for the appointment to judge the breed at what is the greatest dog show in the world. A big thanks go to the exhibitors from both home and abroad for such a super entry which made for a great days judging with quality in depth in many of the classes. Finally I must thank my two stewards who kept things moving in the ring to allow me to finish judging in good time.
On the day I was looking for a workmanlike dog as the standard asks for but one also must remember that in the show ring you also need that attitude and showmanship to complete the picture. I felt my BOB put up a great show in the Group and was so pleased to see him take Group 2 in a quality line up.
BCC
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Placing Critique
Lovely bitch of quality who had to be on top of her game to win the class on the day. Liked her for her size, balance and excellent construction combining this with the required workmanlike appearance and her superb showmanship. Best of heads, so typical and with a good dark eye and the keenest of expressions. Strong neck, well laid back shoulders and a good return of upper arm. Firm body of good shape and a level topline that she holds on the move. Excells in hindquarters, good width but still has that required racy appearance and uses them to advantage to power round ring. Tight harsh coat. Her movement is a joy to watch, so sound with excellent reach and drive, CC.
Class Critique
A very competitive class with many very good bitches going unplaced on the day.
The Border Terrier Club Championship Show
25th Mar 2023
Judge: Mrs Charlotte Archibald (Tweedburn)
What an absolute honour and a privilege to be invited to judge this show, my thanks to the Officers and Committee of the Border Terrier Club, and my two excellent stewards for the day, Judy and Marina.
My sincere thanks also, to ALL the exhibitors for making it truly memorable, with 196 dogs, 233 entries.
Some very close decisions had to be made!
On the down side, I found some very short muzzles and small teeth, and quite a number of filthy teeth!! Temperaments were generally good, there were 2 kinked tails and 1 suspect mouth, a lack of muscle tone and condition in some exhibits, which is essential for a terrier to do it’s job.
That said, it was an absolute joy to see so many super dogs.
BCC
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Reserve Best In Show
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Best Opposite Sex
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Placing Critique
g/t superbly balanced bitch, well muscled, in great condition, typical head, with super expression, good strength of muzzle, attractive dark points, so well put together, with ample bone, and neatest of feet, good angulation, moving with verve and grace. BCC RBIS BOS
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.
BCC
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Placing Critique
Beautiful grizzle of great type, a quality bitch who is super sound and a delight to watch she is a lovely example of moderation combined with balance. Quality head and well conformed all through with excellent shoulders and quarters. So well put together with a super topline, equally matched with an excellent underline with pleasing body and rib. Totally balanced in conformation and this is reflected in her excellent movement, with accurate tracking she demonstrated super economical drive with forward reach in profile, she holds herself so well standing and on the move. Presented in super coat and condition. Excellent breed type, and quality all through she fully deserved the Bitch CC today and made a good match with the dog cc winner.
East Anglia Border Terrier Club Championship Show
16th Apr 2023
Judge: Miss Tracey James (Blackmine)
A bit thank to the committee of EABTC for inviting me to judge their championship show. I really enjoyed my day and when I later looked at the catalogue to see my winners I found it interesting reading, as all my major winners were of similar lines.
RBCC
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Placing Critique
Beautiful Pale grizzle. Feminine head and lovely eye and expression. Straight front. Good shoulders and front angulation. Level topline, easily spanned. Strong quarters. Good overall balance. Excellent double coat and loose pelt. Moved very well with that look at me attitude. RCC
West of England Ladies Kennel Society
27th Apr 2023
Judge: Mr Mark Walshaw (Janmark)
Many thanks to the officers and committee for the invitation to judge at WELKS, it was quite a few years ago now, as I was due to judge them at the beginning of lockdown. Due to the heavy rain that had fallen over the preceding days, all judging was inside. It was slightly draughty, but we were allocated a double ring, so plenty of space, to see the exhibits stride out. I must thank the two stewards Lynn Jones and Celia Vines who kept the ring flowing beautifully and the exhibitors for making prompt appearances, we did well for time, starting approx. 0930 and finishing around 14:45. I thank all exhibitors for a wonderful entry (123 dogs making 172 entries} for a Thursday in Malvern and appreciate their time and expense for entering under me. There was plenty of quality to choose from and I was happy with my final decisions. Dentition was very good and a pleasure to judge dogs with clean teeth. I did find muscle tone to be poor/average in a lot of the exhibits, which must be one of the key areas for any working terrier. Jackets were mixed as was movement.
BCC
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Placing Critique
BCC A quality bitch who is so clean to go over, with excellent construction and a delight to watch as she propels herself around the ring. She balanced and is good for size, balance. Her head is so typical , a very keen expression, with a dark eye and good earset. Strong neck, well placed shoulders with a good return. She is well ribbed, with correct topline and tailset. I loved her rear assembly, racey with power. Today she was sporting a thick harsh coat of quality. She moved effortlessly around the ring, maintaining her topline and looking a picture, so true all ways. Delighted to award her the CC and pushed hard for top honours.
Paignton Championship Show
5th Aug 2023
Judge: Colin Powell (Bowtman)
BCC
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Placing Critique
One of good size and well balanced, top draw material, best of head shapes strong yet feminine, oozes quality, keen dark eyes giving her a great expression, correct dentition, good reach of neck and lay of shoulders, muscular body, and strong rear thigh’s giving her plenty of drive, moved true both ways, harsh jacket and in great condition. A pleasure to award her B.CC. & B.O.S.
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.
RBCC
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Placing Critique
This one took my eye from the moment I saw her go around, on further inspection she impressed me even further with her perfect balance and outline. I really liked her appealing feminine head and expression framed with well placed ears, has a good strong jaw and correct bite. I found her narrow in front and throughout, tight feet and good thick pads. Her pliable jacket with pleasing pelt showed off her super outline. She is perfectly angulated in front and rear and moved out so well, covering the ground as her construction dictates Possess all the right qualities and all the right proportions. RCC
Class Critique
A quality class
The Welsh Kennel Club Championship Show
19th Aug 2023
Judge: Jane Morton Shaw (Fehmarn)
I would like to thank the WKC committee for inviting me to judge at this lovely show. It was very well organised with a super friendly atmosphere.
Thank you to all the exhibitors for your entry & accepting my decisions so graciously.
I thoroughly enjoyed my day, but I have to apologise for the late start! I’m always super early for everything, and had arrived on the showground by 8am. Unfortunately my watch battery ran out at 8.20 and I was mortified when I realised it had stopped and to find out that the time was 9.35!!!
I was very pleased to see my BOB, BPIB & BVIB shortlisted in their groups, with Veteran going on to Group 3.
Open - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
City of Birmingham Championship Show
2nd Sep 2023
Judge: Mrs K Wilkinson (Otterkin)
Thank you to City of Birmingham for the invitation to judge this show, for the very large ring provided to the breed and to all the exhibitors who entered under me – I was very pleased with the overall quality of the entry of 122 dogs making 144 entries in these days of falling entries, with very few absentees (16 from “new dogs” by my count).
The ring stewards did an excellent job of keeping everything running smoothly – so thank you to John Gardner and Ken Francis.
I would like to send my best wishes to Anna Duxbury (Ridgebow) who had initially been under contract to judge this as her very first Championship Show. Having seen Anna judge at the Border Terrier Club’s Open show in February 2022, I know she is a very experienced and knowledgeable judge as well as an excellent breeder and hope in time that she is able to take on another Championship Show appointment in the future. I had originally been invited to judge this show in 2024 and had sent my acceptance letter, but when the Secretary contacted me, I agreed to bring forward the appointment to 2023.
I have taken the name/s of the owner/s and the dogs’ names direct from the catalogue. Some may have other owners or Kennel Names added, or awards such as Ch or JW added now, but I must use the details from the catalogue.
*Handlers* – please do not stuff food/tubes of treats into your dogs’ mouths just before the judge needs to look at their dentition. Those who stood behind their dogs and held the lead, I had no problem examining their dogs’ mouths, but a small number of others who were stuffing food into their dog’s mouth as I approached, once they moved away, some dogs were up on their hind legs trying to get more food/treats from you. I had to examine the rest of the dog then come back and look in the mouth again when the dogs were not fidgeting about looking for food. If you are doing it to avoid the dentition being checked, it won’t work as a judge will just come back to it!
It was quite hot in the hall. Kudos to all the dogs as they were not put off by the noise made when judge and/or handler stood on whatever was under the carpet making a “clunk” noise. I found when spanning dogs, almost all of them were hot underneath. Never felt that before, even when judging in 90 degree heat outside in America, so just be aware that your dog may be getting overheated.
BCC
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It (A.I.)
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It (A.I.)
Placing Critique
This grizzle and tan bitch possesses a lovely outline. She was in quite heavy coat but underneath, a lovely racy outline and easily spanned. Gorgeous otterlike head with varminty expression from dark eyes. Neat and narrow front. Lovely reach of neck. Not overdone in any way – a very typical and workmanlike bitch who looked like she could get anywhere required underground. Excellent level topline with good set on of tail, which was short and of good shape. Pleased to award her the Bitch CC in good competition.
Richmond Championship Show
8th Sep 2023
Judge: Mr Tim Ball (Kaitak)
Open - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Placing Critique
This 3 yr old grizzle is another quality bitch and she was also so good to go over. So well balanced with neck of correct length, firm in topline, ribbed well back which can easily be spanned, strong loin and tail set and carried just right. Balanced headpiece with feminine expression; dark keen eyes, good ears, short strong muzzle, well furnished and scissor bite. She stands true naturally on good feet and is nice and narrow over the shoulders. Moving well all through but winner just had the edge. Excellent texture to jacket and good pelt.
The East Anglia Border Terrier Club Championship Show
5th Jul 2024
Judge: Miss Anita Harrison (Iacheslei)
Many thanks to the committee for the invitation to judge. Everyone worked hard throughout the day to ensure it ran smoothly. There were a few clashes with the main Boston Championship show but these were well managed. Thanks also to the competitors for accepting my decisions in a sporting manner and creating a wonderful atmosphere around the ring.
There was a super entry of 172 dogs making 217 entries which I found both exciting and daunting, having had a total knee replacement operation just weeks before!
Overall, I found the standard of exhibits was good. Coats were a mixture ranging from pure undercoat to absolute perfection. The majority of exhibits were spannable. All dogs were entire. I found just one undershot mouth. I forgave loose movement in some of the younger dogs which will hopefully tighten as they mature, but adults moving wide or close had to be penalised. Several lacked bone and substance, being on the leg as well as short coupled making the outline somewhat squarer than I was looking for. Handling was generally good, with one very professional young handler who really impressed me with her skills. My main winners were presented in stunning condition, and I had some difficult decisions to make in the higher classes, wishing I could award more than just one Challenge Certificate.
Best In Show
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
BCC
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: CH Glebeheath Button It
Placing Critique
Stunning grizzle girl presented in perfect coat and condition. Beautiful head and expression , small well set ears, good dark eye, strong jaw and good big teeth. Beautiful neck flowing into well laid shoulders, with good length of rib, strong loin, lovely topline and tailset, superb front and rear angulation, good tight feet, flowed beautifully around the ring BCC & BIS
