Show Placings
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.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Placing Critique
V much a baby but she is so v well made . In good coat. Super head. Lengthy neck. Level topline. Good rear. Again needs to firm up.
Class Critique
That was a v nice class, all show promise.
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.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
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 .
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Placing Critique
6m grizzle in very good fettle , balanced smaller puppy who is typey & spannable with good firm backline , narrow front with straight legs & easy span ribs . Nice head for age with dark eye & good bite . good deep double coat with thick loose pelt . Moved well once she settled .
Richmond Championship Show
11th Sep 2021
Judge: Mr Colin Girling (Benattivo)
Thank you to the committee of the Richmond show for granting my first appointment to award CC’s, I was well looked after on the day and had great support from my stewards which was very much appreciated. It was a real privilege to judge some wonderful examples of the breed and the future looks bright as there were so many wonderful puppies and juniors. I really appreciated all my entries and rewarded those in the best condition on the day, I also acknowledge that many had good breed type and quality even amongst those not in the challenge and some that were not placed in the stronger classes.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Class Critique
After awarding the dog CC it was a really nice to see so many great minor puppies in the ring and I really was short on awards as some left without a placing, despite them being excellent representatives of the breed.
The Southern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
18th Sep 2021
Judge: Miss Sally Leslie (Risdene)
Congratulations to the committee on finding a splendid new venue. It is so nice to be able to evaluate exhibits in natural surrounding and this was ideal. I understand some did not care completely for the ground but while some exhibits did not excel on the terrain those that did displayed good conformation and moved accordingly.
Generally: there were some mouth faults present today which affected some results in the context of the classes they were in and the degree of the fault. Fronts came in many shapes and sizes not all straight and narrow unfortunately and I was surprised at the number of large and rather thin, spreading feet. Finally I just want to get off my chest that for me the term racy hindquarters does not carry with it a high tuck up.
The unexpected heat, especially in the earlier classes, was a little overwhelming and I thought both exhibits and exhibitors coped admirably. I loved my line ups and very much appreciated my entry, thank you.
Thanks also to my stewards who in these strange times were really kept at it all day.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Novice - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
The Scottish Kennel Club (May) Championship Show
1st Oct 2021
Judge: Mrs Trudi Baird (Dowgri)
I was delighted to accept the invitation to judge at the May show postponed to October.
Under Scottish government rules it meant those of us inside had to wear masks & I thank the majority of exhibitors for complying with this legislation.
Thank you to my lone steward who was able to keep the classes coming in and ready for me, it wasn't an easy task with our neighbouring ring hosting the breeds October show but thankfully we didn't get too many clashes.
I always feel immensely privileged to be able to judge your dogs and I hope exhibitors felt that I gave each of you ample time to set up your dogs on the table to show them at their best.
The entry was varied and I felt my top winners were outstanding. As always coats were presented at various stages and bites were generally very good. A number with long flat & untidy feet and a few dogs I just couldn't span even with my large hands!
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
The Scottish Kennel Club (October) Championship Show
1st Oct 2021
Judge: Miss Anita Harrison (Iacheslei)
My thanks to SKC for holding the show after two changes of date and merging the May and October shows. It can’t have been easy. My grateful thanks to Bob Potts, my sole ring steward for the day, who cheerfully and calmly kept the ring running smoothly with the greatest efficiency.
Whilst my main winners fitted the breed standard I was disappointed with some of the other exhibits. The front movement on some left an awful lot to be desired. (Try videoing your dogs moving) Many were light of bone, on the leg and short coupled giving a square outline. Several had short round ribs. Having said that the majority were spannable. Dentition was generally good. All dogs were entire. Coats were at various stages but those with no coat had to be penalised in several classes. Presentation of some exhibits could have been better. Temperaments on the whole appeared to be okay, with just the odd exhibit displaying a tendency to be over excited in the presence of others.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Coventry & Foleshill CA Open Show
7th Nov 2021
Judge: Jane Paradise (Shardlow)
Best Puppy
Name at show: TPG2, Rockslade Russian Roulette
Puppy /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Placing Critique
Just 6 months old. Really liked this promising puppy’s size, shape & balance. Dark eyes & small ears. Good ribbing going well back. Harsh coat texture. Ex scissor bite. Straight forelegs. Moved briskly around the ring.BPIB & PG2.
Post Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Hyde & DCS Open Show
13th Nov 2021
Judge: Tony Hall
Best Puppy
Name at show: TPG1, Rockslade Russian Roulette
Placing Critique
quality head on this feminine bitch. Good reach of neck flowing into well made shoulders, straight front, firm loin, nicely angulated rear and has neat feet. Coat of good texture, sound happy mover.
Puppy /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Post Graduate /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Ladies Kennel Association
11th Dec 2021
Judge: Mrs Beverley Barber (Alcumlow)
Thank you to everyone who entered their dogs for me to judge. I was pleased with my entry and very pleased that LKA took place in light of the current Covid19 situation. I must admit it was very challenging to judge properly whilst wearing a facemask all day in this indoor venue! I was very pleased with my principle winners. Some of the younger classes were not so good maybe with maturity the exhibits will probably change places many times. My principle of judging is always good sound movement, capable of following a horse, this requires good conformation. A well laid shoulder and a properly angulated rear allows a good free stride . Some dogs were too narrow and so swinging their fronts from side to side, and some were great standing but fell apart on the move, running downhill or rear out of line with front were common faults. Heads were very varied, some very exaggerated or with untypical expression. Bites were mostly okay although I did find misaligned jaws and some had small or uneven sized teeth. Coats were hit and miss but pelts were mostly good and all were spannable, although some were round in rib. But remember you always take the best dog home.
Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Placing Critique
good looking puppy. Pleasing head with good reach of neck well ribbed back with good length to body. Well set tail held topline on the move. Moved okay.
Rhyl CS Open Show
19th Dec 2021
Judge: Mr Keith Baldwin (Nightstorm)
Best Puppy
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Puppy /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Boston & District Canine Society Championship Show
9th Jan 2022
Judge: Professor A S Milton (Baillieswells)
Puppy - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Manchester Championship Show
20th Jan 2022
Judge: Mr Stuart Plane
What a weekend it proved to be for Border Terriers
Puppy - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Placing Critique
A very well balanced bitch of good type ok in head with a dark eye, correct mouth true form and covers the gound well on the move
West Midlands Terrier Society Open Show
12th Feb 2022
Judge: Dog Judge:-Dave Lee Bitch Judge:-Ken Francis
May I take this opportunity to thank the Officers and Committee of the West Midlands Terrier Society for the invitation to judge at their Premier Terrier Show, venue the KC Building at Stoneleigh Saturday 12thFebruary. I also convey my thanks to Mandy Secretary for the Lovely Lunch in addition to the hard-working Ladies in the Kitchen. I also thank my two Stewards Jo and Graham Dowdy for keeping things running efficiently and smoothly. Finally, I thank the exhibitors as without you there’s no show. The atmosphere around all rings were fantastic as it always is at this Premier Terrier Club. Dave Lee
The dog judge and myself selected both BOB and BP from the dog classes. Was pleased to see the puppy win BPIS. Ken Francis
Puppy - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
The Southern Border Terrier Club Limited Show
6th Mar 2022
Judge: Mandy Holmes (Bimandi)
Firstly I would like to thank The Southern Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge and for their hospitality on the day. Also many thanks to everyone that gave me the privilege of going over their dogs and congratulation to all my winners.
All males were entire. All tails straight. One or two untidy mouths but nothing to be classed as a fault.
Reserve Best Bitch
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Bristol & District Dog Club Open Show
6th Mar 2022
Judge: Mr M L Vines (Parvodene)
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Placing Critique
Just over a year old, but so very confident for her age. So feminine in head, dark eye, well placed ears. Moderate reach of neck, correct height to length. Ok for bone. Excellent coat, did well on the move, very sound
Post Graduate /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
The Southern Border Terrier Club Limited Show
6th Mar 2022
Judge: Mandy Holmes (Bimandi)
Firstly I would like to thank The Southern Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge and for their hospitality on the day. Also many thanks to everyone that gave me the privilege of going over their dogs and congratulation to all my winners.
All males were entire. All tails straight. One or two untidy mouths but nothing to be classed as a fault.
Junior - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Placing Critique
13 months Well balanced bitch of good proportions. Broad skull and muzzle, good angles front and rear, straight front, ribs well back, firm topline, spannable with harsh coat, covered the ground well on the move.
The Terrier Club of South Wales
20th Mar 2022
Judge: Mrs Julie North (Northborders)
I would like to thank the Committee for inviting me to judge the Border Terriers at this very friendly well run show and thank you for the lovely lunch , I thoroughly enjoyed myself and thank the Exhibitors for your fabulous entry but such a shame COVID showed it's ugly head again meaning there were quite a few absentees however I had some really nice dogs to go over
Junior - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Placing Critique
13mths Nice Ottery femine head with a good bite and underjaw , nice dark eye ,not much coat today but what was there was good texture , pelt ok , easily spanned ,very good neat feet and moved v soundly to win the class
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Placing Critique
1st In junior
Llanelli & DCS Open Show
10th Apr 2022
Judge: Ian Biddlestone
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Placing Critique
Bitch. Clean head with enough skull, well placed ears, dark eye, scissor bite giving a keen expression, length of neck into straight front spanned with ease, desirable rear with good angulation, neat feet all-round, coat in good condition, sound moved towards and away. BOB
Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Placing Critique
See junior
The East Anglia Border Terrier Club Championship Show Jane O’Shea Memorial Special Awards
18th Apr 2022
Judge: Lesley Armstrong-Rodgers (Atron)
Many thanks to the Officers and Committee for the kind invitation to judge the Memorial Special classes in memory of Jane O’Shea. It was held in conjunction with the East Anglia Border Terrier Championship Show of which she had been Vice Chairman. It was a privilege and honor to do so. A thank you also must go to my most capable stewards for their assistance on the day.
Special Award Junior Dog or Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Placing Critique
A very pleasing grizzle and tan bitch of 14 months. Owns a very nice head of correct proportions with dark eye and well placed ear. Correct scissor bite with big teeth. Moderate length of neck with correct shoulder placement, a lovely straight front on neat well padded feet. Enough rear angulation. Shown today in a decent jacket. Moved out well, keeping her topline and showing both reach and drive. Shows much promise.
WELKS
25th Apr 2022
Judge: Mr S A Mcpherson (Brumberhill))
Thank you to the WELKS committee for the invitation to judge their show and to my stewards, who did a sterling job, keeping everything moving, to get through the entry.
Wasn’t sure what to expect, being on a Monday, in the current financial climate, so was delighted to receive an entry of 126 dogs, making 181 entries, topping the Terrier Group, by quite a margin. Thank you to those exhibitors, for bringing their dogs, and wanting my opinion. There were very few I’d actually judged before, having last judged at Blackpool ’19.
We were blessed with a lovely sunny day, and a huge double sized ring, giving everyone full chance to show their dogs to full advantage.
I felt it was a high quality entry, especially the bitches, where, I felt, my final bitch challenge line up was one of the best I’ve judged. There were a number of bitches, both there, and in the placings, I have no doubt will gain their crowns, given a fair chance.
Main points of concern, as last time I judged, at Blackpool ’19, are still deep stops, with a rounder eye, giving an untypical expression. A few, with this problem, also had tighter, untidy bites, as they were very short in muzzle.
A few knobbly tails, some too long, carried high, but most were ok and well carried.
On the whole, I thought movement had improved, although still a few high steppers, due to incorrect shoulder and upper arm. Toplines were good, on most. Presentation, on the whole, was good, as most were in good coat, or evidence of texture.
Junior - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Placing Critique
Grizzle. Just over 14 months. Very similar remarks to the winner, as she is the same overall stamp of bitch, in construction and type. Sound free mover, she pushed the winner all the way. It was literally splitting hairs, she just didn’t have the super depth of coat and texture, but a very good bitch, taking her to 1st in the next class.
Yearling - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Placing Critique
See 2nd in Junior Bitch for comments.
The Midland Border Terrier Club Open Show
6th May 2022
Judge: Mr R Wright (Borderexpress)
I would like to thank the Officers and Committee of The Midland Border Terrier Club for the invite to judge the Open Show held in conjunction with The Birmingham National. The hospitality showed by both clubs on the day was tremendous plus the wonderful gift received with many thanks – I will remember my first club show appointment for a long time.
I could not of been more pleased with my entry on the day so a big thank you for all of the exhibitors that gave me the opportunity to go over their dogs and the quality presented. Junior Bitch, Limit Bitch and Limit Dog classes were of real quality and on another day placings could of easily been switched. That aside I was really pleased with my Bitch/Dog line ups having some real quality to pick my main winners from.
Also a special mention to my two stewards Sharon and La for keeping my classes going and to Bev who co-ordinated between the two rings whilst the judging was going on.
It was nice having the opportunity to see Terrier Group at the Birmingham National at the end of the day and see my Best Dog go on to represent the Border Terrier by getting short listed in a really big group, he had his 3 CC today and I was delighted to see he has become a Champion in his own right.
Junior - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Class Critique
Possibly the hardest class of the day with some real quality youngsters and my first 5 could all change places on another day.
Royal Welsh Agricultural Premier Open Show
22nd May 2022
Judge: Miss E W Newton (Nevedith)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG2, Rockslade Russian Roulette
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Placing Critique
very typical throughout with sufficient strength of bone covered in correct coat. BOB
Bath CS Championship Show
27th May 2022
Judge: Mrs Jean Willetts (Hanway)
I would like to thank Bath Canine Society Committee for my invitation to judge Border Terriers at their show. I would also like to thank my steward as she was on her own, and did an excellent job of running the ring and dogs smoothly. I’d also like to thank all the exhibitors who entered, I had a very enjoyable day going over each of the dogs.
On the whole most of the dogs were in good condition. Most dogs presented had good pelts and coats, however there were a few with thin pelts. There were a few long tails and some large ears. The movement on the whole was sound.
Junior - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Placing Critique
Very close decision between first and second. Typical head and expression. Good neck and shoulders. In good condition with harsh coat and pelt. Kept top line and tail set on the move. Moved well round the ring.
Yearling - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Southern Counties Canine Association
3rd Jun 2022
Judge: Mrs Elizabeth Barrett (Howthwaite)
Thank you to the committee for inviting me to award my first set of CCs. Although my appointment was originally for 2020, it was worth the wait. Thank you to my stewards Doug and Sue for keeping me in line and the ring running smoothly. And most of all, thank you to all of the exhibitors for your entries and for allowing me to go over your dogs. I also want to thank anyone who made unsporting comments, for doing so out of my earshot.
As I would expect, the entry was on the whole very pleasing. Thankfully, I didn’t have many exaggerations, such as ultra short muzzles or over-angulated hindquarters. Unfortunately though, good fronts, and in particular clean, well laid, shoulders and good front angulation, were few and far between. Movement, with both good reach and drive and accuracy was hard to find, so I did find myself forgiving the odd wayward front legs on dogs that otherwise had good construction and an easy ground covering stride. I would rather see a dog a little loose and covering the ground than one very accurate that can only take a three inch stride. All dogs were entire. There were only a couple of less than perfect bites and an ever so slightly kinked tail. Only a select few had a good short carroty tail, and some were very long, something we need to look out for. A few, including some bitches, were big in the rib and far too heavy to pick up and quite a number had very little undercoat and thin pelts. I looked for good construction and movement, balance and no exaggeration. I found several dogs that I would happily award CCs to on another day and had the privilege of having to really nitpick, especially in the dog challenge.
Junior - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Placing Critique
Light grizzle and tan with a lovely ottery head. Excellent bite, nice shaped skull with little stop. Excellent neck and well laid shoulders. Well angulated forequarters with good return of upper arm. She was easily spanned and has a good topline with well set tail. Shown in a harsh and thick topcoat, with plenty of undercoat and pelt. Free and accurate on the move. A very typical Border and a very close decision
Class Critique
A lovely class of juniors who I will watch with interest.
Yearling - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Placing Critique
2nd in junior. She was beaten by two exceptionally good bitches today and I thought she pushed them hard. I think she has a bright future ahead.
Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Placing Critique
see 2nd in Junior and Yearling bitch.
The Southern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
4th Jun 2022
Judge: Mr David Hunt (Ottaswell)
My sincere thanks to the officers and committee of the Southern Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge at this show on such a special occasion as the Queens Platinum Jubilee Celebration day, I am sure the celebration cakes were enjoyed by all. Thanks also to the various stewards who organised the entries on the day and kept the classes running smoothly. Having been show manager of this show for the past 12 years I appreciate the effort that was made by the committee members present on the day. A final thank you to all the exhibitors for giving me the opportunity to assess your dogs.
With showers forecast and cool blustery weather outside it was decided to judge inside using a good sized ring that had good lighting with exhibitors/visitors able to view from 3 sides. I thought the entry was of a high quality, with several entries of both dogs and bitches deserving higher honours. In general the entries were in good condition. All males were entire and I found no kinked tails. Bites were of a good standard with just a few misplaced teeth, although teeth size varied considerably. Several exhibits would benefit from attention to feet to produce the small feet as required. Movement in general was better at the rear than in front. As usual coats were at various stages, with some exceptionally thick pelts to examine.
Junior - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Three Counties Championship Show
9th Jun 2022
Judge: Mrs M J Alexander (Glenbucket)
Junior - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Pembrokeshire CA Open Show
18th Jun 2022
Judge: Mr N Merrick
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Chepstow & DCS Open Show
19th Jun 2022
Judge: Alison Hinsley (Tigerbull)
Junior /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
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.
Junior - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Yearling - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Vale of Clwyd CS Open Show
3rd Jul 2022
Judge: Lyn Bull (Aurgwen)
Many thanks to all exhibitors who brought their splendid dogs, and to the Club for inviting me to judge. Whilst there was a numerically small entry it was a pleasure and honour to judge such quality exhibits.
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Post Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Placing Critique
Very feminine bitch, pleasing otter head, keen eye, good dentition, narrow front, shoulders well laid back. Easily spannable, coat in great condition, free easy movement.
East of England
9th Jul 2022
Judge: Mr Bob Blackley (Vaevictus)
Graduate - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Placing Critique
Good head and expression, well angulated front and rear, moved well both ways
Llandysul DCS Open Show
31st Jul 2022
Judge: Mrs N Evans (Pendevour)
Yearling /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
The Midland Border Terrier Club Championship Show
7th Aug 2022
Judge: Miss Rebecca Barber (Alcumlow)
Thank you very much to the committee of the Midland Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge this show, it is a club that is very dear to me having been a member for over 30 years and I very much enjoyed my day. Thank you to my three stewards Laura, La and Richard for doing an amazing job of looking after me and keeping me well fuelled! Thank you also to all of the exhibitors who made the decision to enter their beautiful dogs under me, I know that we have to be selective in this current climate and I was absolutely delighted with such a fabulous entry. I felt overall that the dogs were of excellent quality and the majority were turned out beautifully. Heads are good in the main, we are getting away from that bulbus rounded skull and teddy bear expression and going back to a more traditional look. I would say the things that need addressing the most are front angulation, there are still quite a few dogs lacking in upper arm and also poor rear angulation appears to be creeping in a little. However, I found some beautiful dogs and I was very pleased with my main winners, some classes were extremely competitive and some good dogs had to go cardless. I thank you all for persevering in the heat, it was a tough day for me judging in such intense heat, so I am sure it was difficult for the exhibits too. I hope my winners appreciated our crochet efforts with the personalised rosettes, which mum and I took a lot of pleasure in making.
Junior - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette
Placing Critique
Quality bitch, nice size and lovely overall body shape, she caught my eye straight away. Nice head, ottery in appearance with flat skull and short strong muzzle, not overdone. Excellent front assembly, level topline and nice tail set and shape finishing a very balanced picture. Narrow body, well ribbed back, enough length. Moved out very well especially in side profile, she covered the ground with ease. Highly considered in the challenge, will watch her with interest, I am sure she has a promising future.
Welsh Kennel Club
21st Aug 2022
Judge: Mr T Johnston
Graduate - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Pontardulais Agricultural & Horticultural Society Open Show
29th Aug 2022
Judge: Mr Mark Walden
I would like to thank the committee for asking me to judge this lovely show. The weather was warm which only enhanced the atmosphere at this marvellous venue.
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG2, Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Placing Critique
Border terrier bitch of 18 months of age, this dog came very close to winning, only lost out on the maturity of the winner. Perfectly handled, lovely Otter head, good rib cage nice and deep with a good thick tail.
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
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.
Graduate - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Placing Critique
Good proportions strong head and muzzle, ribs well back rear angulations good and moved out well
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.
Yearling - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Darlington Championship Dog Show
17th Sep 2022
Judge: Miss Tracey Peacock (Ragatam)
Firstly, I would like to thank the committee for their invitation to judge Border Terriers. Huge thanks to my two efficient stewards Laura Jordan-Smith and Julie North who kept me on track and finally the exhibitors for a super entry. Movement in general was better at the rear than in front as there were too many swinging fronts, wide movement and toeing in. There was a good selection of quality dogs and bitches for me to choose from and I thoroughly enjoyed my day.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
South Wales Kennel Association
6th Oct 2022
Judge: Mr Stewart Golding (Beaconpike)
Thank you to the committee for inviting me to judge, this was my first time awarding CC’s. Thank you to my stewards for keeping the ring running smoothly. A big thank you must go to the exhibitors for a good entry especially on a Thursday in the middle of Wales in the current climate we live in. I only have a couple of concerns. Movement is paramount in our breed and these dogs should be able to cover ground easily I found due to poor shoulder angulation a few had restrained front movement. I did forgive coat in class placings where evidence of a new coat was present, however I did find a lot of single coated dogs possibly down to over grooming, my main winners all had correct double coat of depth. I had a very enjoyable day, thank you to everyone for accepting my decisions gracefully.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Midland Counties Canine Society
30th Oct 2022
Judge: Mr Alan Small (Bethane)
I thoroughly enjoyed my day judging the Border Teriers at Midland Counties Champ. Show. Thanks to the Officers & Committee for the invite & especially to the exhibitors who presented me with such a wonderful entry of 230 from 174 dogs. It was a quality entry overall and I was particuarly impressed with the quality of the young stock which augers well for the breed. There's no Puppy or Veteran Groups at the Midland, which is a pity because I feel both would have done well. Must not be too greedy, as it was nice to see my BOB, Ch. Otterbobs Tolson top the Terrier Group and my Best Special Beginners, Thistlemead Sundance, take her respective Group as well.....Well done.
Special thanks to my Ring Stewards, Penny Lloyd & Gavin Argyle, who kept things moving along nicely. Border Terriers are dear to my heart having owned & bred them over a number of years. Thanks again for such a wonderful entry, I enjoyed your dogs and a nice atmosphere prevailed.
Yearling - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Amman Valley CS Open Show
5th Nov 2022
Judge: Mrs J Monaghan
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Boston & District Canine Society
8th Jan 2023
Judge: Tracy Butler (Ycart)
Firstly I would like to thank the officers and committee for inviting me to judge there well run show,also many thanks must go to my very capable stewards on an excellent job in keeping the ring running smoothly.
The biggest thanks must go the exhibitors for there entries,and there sportsmanship on my decisions.
In my opinon,my findings where as follows,the standard asks for “essencially a working terrier”,this is a statement that is very close to my heart.
Unfortunatley some do not fit this,short upperarms are still very present,restricting reach in movement.Some dogs would benefit from less food and more exercise.
Muscle tone varied greatly,some dogs lacking,these dogs are bred to do a job.
With the rising costs of entries,some exhibits would benefit greatly from a good tidy up and the mud removed from there under bellies.
I was pleased with my overall winners,some nice quality exhibits.
Yearling - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Placing Critique
Pale grizzle,feminine head,correct bite,lovely neck & shoulder,striaght front,spans with ease,strong loin,well muscled quarters,nice topline & tailset,stands on small neat tight feet,harsh coat & thick pelt,moves with reach & drive,considered her in the challenge.
Manchester Championship Show
20th Jan 2023
Judge: Mrs Patsy Hollings (Gunalt)
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Placing Critique
Attractive with plenty of breed points to draw you in. Pretty with sparkling expression and balance of head. Handled and turned out to advantage .This one has lots to offer.
Bridgend & DKA Open Show
5th Mar 2023
Judge: Sarah Pateman (Lessien)
A big thank you to the committee for my invite to judge at their show which was run very efficiently, and everyone was so friendly. I was happy with my entry and felt honoured to be able to go over some quality dogs today and the exhibitors entrusting me to do so and taking my decisions on board with grace. Only a couple of absentees but those that were, sent their apologies which I did appreciate, thank you!
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
The Southern Border Terrier Open Show
5th Mar 2023
Judge: Mr Matt Smith (Alncroft)
Many thanks to the club for the invitation to judge at their show and for their hospitality. Thank you to my stewards, and the exhibitors for entering under me. I thoroughly enjoyed my day and was pleased with the quality present. Many of the classes were close decisions and coats played a big part in final standings. Whilst I didn’t find any dogs that I couldn’t span, having spent a lifetime around working terriers some of the bitches in particular were on the larger end of the scale for preference.
Best Bitch
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Best Opposite Sex
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Reserve Best In Show
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Bridgend & DKA Open Show
5th Mar 2023
Judge: Sarah Pateman (Lessien)
A big thank you to the committee for my invite to judge at their show which was run very efficiently, and everyone was so friendly. I was happy with my entry and felt honoured to be able to go over some quality dogs today and the exhibitors entrusting me to do so and taking my decisions on board with grace. Only a couple of absentees but those that were, sent their apologies which I did appreciate, thank you!
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Placing Critique
Grizzle and tan bitch, caught my eye upon her entrance into the ring. Very pretty bitch, and feminine all round, correct bite, otter head and ear set, keen eye. Nice front and she continued to be narrow throughout, nice tight neat feet and good pads, correct rear angulation. easily spannable, coat was bang on and she moved confidently with drive from behind. Happy to award her BOB today.
The Southern Border Terrier Open Show
5th Mar 2023
Judge: Mr Matt Smith (Alncroft)
Many thanks to the club for the invitation to judge at their show and for their hospitality. Thank you to my stewards, and the exhibitors for entering under me. I thoroughly enjoyed my day and was pleased with the quality present. Many of the classes were close decisions and coats played a big part in final standings. Whilst I didn’t find any dogs that I couldn’t span, having spent a lifetime around working terriers some of the bitches in particular were on the larger end of the scale for preference.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Placing Critique
A very honest bitch, unexaggerated and very pleasing to go over. Turned out in excellent condition with a good coat and pelt. Strong muzzle. Good eye and expression with neat ears. Moderate length of neck, good in shoulder and enough return of upperarm. Straight front legs. Would prefer tighter feet. Good width to body. Comfortably spanned. Nicely balanced. Pleasing action on the move. Shown and handled well. Pleased to award her best bitch, BOS and RBIS.
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.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Placing Critique
Quality throughout, lovely size and is so well made, pushed the winner all the way. Clean and flowing outline that she keeps stood and on the move. Pleasing head, eye and expression. Good reach of neck and an excellent layback of shoulder. Firm body and a pleasing topline and tailset along with strong well made quarters. In good coat on the day. Soundest of movers both fore and aft.
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.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Llanelli and District Open Show
9th Apr 2023
Judge: Mr Keith Baldwin (Nightstorm)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG4, Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Placing Critique
2 years old wheaten bitch, feminine otter shaped head and dark eyes with keen expression, scissor bite, nice reach of neck to clean shoulder, front legs viewed straight with plenty of bone and tight feet, easy to span, harsh coat with thick pelt, well angulated rear quarters, even mover. Best Of Breed
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.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
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.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Placing Critique
Well balanced typey grizzle bitch of good proportions and size. Broad in skull with strong muzzle. Clean through neck with good angles front and rear. Well bodied with ribs well back, firm topline, tidy tailset and spannable, sporting a harsh jacket. She covered the ground very well, moving cleanly all ways.
Joint Border Terrier Clubs' Championship Show
30th Apr 2023
Judge: Mrs Hilary Gilpin (Otterbobs)
A very big thank you to the SBTC for inviting me to judge this very well run show, to Marina for stewarding and to the exhibitors for entering under me.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Placing Critique
a light red, nicely headed bitch with a broad skull, another with a short strong muzzle, deep in body and moderate tuck up, wider in thighs than 1st, coat in good order.
The Midland Border Terrier Club Open Show
6th May 2023
Judge: Mr Keith Baldwin (Nightstorm)
I would like to thank all the Officers and Committee of the Midland Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge their club open show.
It is now 17 years that I have been judging Border Terriers and it was the 6th August 2011 that I attended the Midland Border Terrier Club breed specific seminar when Jena Tuck was the secretary.
I was very pleased with my entry of 112 quality dogs and bitches, also I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the exhibitors who entered and for allowing me to go over their dogs. They all showed and behaved very well. I can report back to you that you have overall one of the soundest breeds that I have judged.
Last but not least I would like to thank my stewards who did an excellent job keeping everything flowing smoothly between the two shows in the Margaret Everton Pavilion
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Placing Critique
2 years old grizzle, I have judged this lovely bitch as a puppy at Rhyl CS were she gained top honours and again at Llanelli were she was awarded BOB and group 4, she is a quality bitch with lovely overall body shape, feminine otter head with short strong muzzle, dark eyes and scissor bite, clean neck into level topline and nice tail set, well ribbed back and easy spanned, front legs viewed straight with ample bone, racy rear quarter, moved out with positive ground covering footfall, unlucky to meet winner today.
National Dog Show
6th May 2023
Judge: Brigitte Belin Bernaudin (France)
First, I thank the committee for the invitation to judge this prestigious show. Thanks to my stewards for making a super job and keep my judging running smoothly. It was a real honour and privilege as foreign judge and breeder to have the opportunity of this 1st appointment to give CC in my breed, and thank to exhibitors to allow me to go over so many good Border.
Being able in my country to work my dogs, I have been looking for the right conformation as asks in the standard, making dogs able to do their original work underground and was happy many could do so.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Placing Critique
Another pleasing bitch of good size and type. Very nice feminine head and typical expression.Nice reach of neck flowing into well laid shoulders. Nice straight front. Ribs well back, easily spannable. level firm topline kept on the move, tail well set and carried. Very balanced angulations front and rear.Excellent harsh coat and pelt. A free and sound mover
Aberystwyth & DCS Open Show
8th May 2023
Judge: David Godsall
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG1, Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Bath Canine Society
29th May 2023
Judge: Mrs Anne Gregory (Remony)
My thanks to the officers and committee of Bath Canine Society for inviting me to judge today. A big thank you to my two very efficient stewards, Mark and Joyce, who kept the ring running smoothly and efficiently. Thank you also to the exhibitors for giving me the opportunity to go over their dogs, it is always a privilege to do so. I was disappointed not to have been able to stay and watch the groups but circumstances outwith my control prevented me from doing so.
While there were plenty of good ‘otter’ heads in evidence, I found some heads lacking in muzzle strength and some with stops that were too deep, neither of which is desirable. Some exhibits were too heavy in frame and consequently didn’t come to hand easily. Some dogs had weak pasterns and feet that could have been tighter. Coats were at varying stages, with some in their underclothes, some just going over the top, and in some cases, this was a deciding factor. Overall, movement was good with correct tracking, plenty of drive off well angulated hindquarters and good length of stride. Some dogs could have benefited from more ring training and, at times, baiting on the table was excessive. A dog scrambling to get to bait makes it more difficult to assess. On a positive note, I did have some quality dogs to go over and was well pleased with my winners and final line-up. I was also pleased to see my Best Veteran win the Terrier Veteran Group, my Best Puppy shortlisted in the Terrier Puppy Group and my Best Special Beginners, Special Beginners Terrier Group 4
Post Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Placing Critique
Good for size and type, feminine head with moderately broad skull, little stop, correct dentition, well constructed front and rear, narrow body with good length of rib, spans easily, sporting an excellent harsh jacket over a thick pelt, moved freely and soundly.
Southern Counties Canine Association
2nd Jun 2023
Judge: Miss Felicity Freer (Felfree)
Post Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Placing Critique
Super bitch, excellent size, easily spanned. Put down and shown to perfection. Harsh, thick coat, good pelt. Nice length of rib. Lovely to go over.
Three Counties Championship Dog Show
9th Jun 2023
Judge: Mrs Jane Roberts (Smalesmouth)
Many thanks to the officers and committee for inviting me to judge Border Terriers at Three Counties Championship Dog Show. My appointment was originally for 2020 but it was worth the wait to be able to judge at this lovely showground at the foot of the Malvern Hills. Many thanks indeed to my stewards Bill and Trish who kept everything moving ringside in an efficient and pleasant manner. My thanks go to all the exhibitors who brought their dogs under me. It was a real privilege and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. There were some close decisions and I would like to thank all those who accepted my decisions so sportingly.
Based on my entry I felt that the overall quality of the breed was good. Most were fit and I thought that fronts and heads had improved from the last time I judged. There were only a few that I was unable to span and a couple who had missing teeth and one that had a kinked tail. I was particularly pleased with my bitch line-up and I thought there were some very good quality exhibits who on another day could be ticket winners.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Placing Critique
G/T who was good for size and balance. Typical head and keen expression. Liked her neck and shoulder placement. Good legs and feet. Well ribbed back and spannable. Strong loin. Liked her top line and tail set. Moved well from all angles. Very good harsh coat and pelt.
The Southern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
10th Jun 2023
Judge: Miss Julie Price (Oxcroft)
Thank you to all at the Southern Border Terrier Club for the invitation to judge your championship show this year, it was a great honour and privilege. The weather was hot and the venue was good to gain some shade for the dogs and myself! I had two very capable stewards who kept things running smoothy throughout the day, so thank to Kathleen Haugh and Sophie Liggat for their support. I really enjoyed my day and was more than happy with my winners. Thank you again for your hospitality.
I was looking for type, gameness, soundness and dogs that were fit to do a day’s work whilst not losing any attributes of the breed standard. Some exhibits were rather well muscled around the shoulders which made it difficult to feel the lay of the shoulders and this would also restrict their ability to go to ground. As a breed I think we are losing the otter heads and keen expressions which distinguishes the Border Terrier from other terrier breeds. A lady contacted me a week after the show and explained that she had attended the show during some of the bitch classes as she was looking to purchase a puppy having recently lost two of her old Borders. She explained she was now thinking of buying another breed as the dogs in the show ring did not look like the Borders she had had previously. She felt that they did not have the characteristic otter heads, and sadly I had to agree with her.
Overall, most dogs were fit for purpose and I am sure you all took the best dog home with you. In the current financial climate, all your entries were valuable to the club and it was a pleasure and an honour to go over your dogs.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Blackpool & District Canine Society
25th Jun 2023
Judge: Mrs Jayne Gillam (Orenberg)
Many thanks to the officers and committee for inviting me to judge Border Terriers at Blackpool & District Canine Society Championship show. Grateful thanks must go to my very efficient steward Gisela Duran who did an excellent job in making sure everything ran like clockwork. Finally thank you to the exhibitors for giving me such an excellent entry of 142 dogs making 183 entries, the largest entry across all breeds on the day. It really was a privilege to go over such a large entry of dogs and I thoroughly enjoyed my day.
The size of dogs has always been a perennial topic, but I was pleased to say overall, many of the dogs were of correct size on this occasion, with very few oversized dogs and only the odd one or two I couldn’t span. Bites were good and only an odd one with teeth out of line, although a few had broken teeth, quite a few had dirty teeth and some had small teeth which is something I really don’t like to see on, essentially a working terrier. It was good to find some really lovely tails, with not too many long thin, spindly tails we have seen in the past, although I was surprised to find four kinked tails in the entry.
Overall I thought it was a good entry, I found some quality exhibits and I was very pleased with my winners, and in particular will watch the progress of my puppy and junior placings with interest.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Placing Critique
G&T. Lovely for size, straight forelegs and good feet and pasterns. Well angulated shoulders and super rib and good underline. Very good neckline into topline and tailset. Pleasing head but would prefer a bit more strength of muzzle. Presented in good jacket, moved well.
Llandysul DCS Open Show
30th Jul 2023
Judge: Miss Felicity Snook (Pitcombe)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG2, Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
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.
BCC
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Placing Critique
Beautiful bitch in good coat. Lovely feminine head & expression. Correct bite. Neat feet, ears correctly placed. Excellent angulation & bend of stifle. Tail well set on from a level top line. Spannable. Good underline. Moved well & freely with drive around the ring.
Pontardulais Agricultural & Horticultural Society
28th Aug 2023
Judge: Mrs Sue Spafford (Dassett)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG1, Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Placing Critique
Lovely feminine bitch of good size. Nice head and expression. Well placed ears, narrow and ribs well laid back, Good rear angulation and moved well. Well presented. BoB & TG1.
Darlington Championship Show
17th Sep 2023
Judge: Mrs D Bullen (Fevstone)
I would like to thank the committee for inviting me to judge for the second time. I had a good entry of 125 with a few absentees as is usual, the dogs were of varying types and sizes which is to be expected. The ones that were unspannable aren’t fit for function as they fall at the first hurdle so to speak.
There are quite a lot creeping into the breed of late which lack power in the foreface. Falling away below the eye with a foreign expression. Also lacking in underjaw. Again a weakness in the breed which needs addressing or we will lose these qualities essential to work. A lot now have too short an upperarm which is vital in construction as it propels the dog forward as he should cover the ground effortlessly striding out. Not Pitter patter slowly. On a more positive note I found a lot of quality true to type borders that were a pleasure to judge. Effortless free movement which is essential. I’m sure the breed will go on to have a bright future if we all keep to the breed type.
Open - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Yorkshire, Lancashire & Cheshire Border Terrier Club Championship Show
30th Sep 2023
Judge: Mrs J Guvercin (Glebeheath)
Thank you to the committee for this appointment, everyone worked hard to make it an enjoyable day. This venue always has a super atmosphere, however, the ring is too small really to see outlines, being far too near the dogs and side profile movement is very difficult to see, let alone for the dogs to perform really well. Many moved poorly, not liking the smooth mats and although I had to judge them on this today, I think most would move much better outside in a big grass ring.
Open - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
South Wales Kennel Association
13th Oct 2023
Judge: Mr W Shorthose (Cundytyke)
I think hind movement has generally improved though the same cannot be said for fronts. Most were shown in good coat and only one exhibit was clearly of poor temperament.
Open - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Championship Show
11th Nov 2023
Judge: Mr Mark Lowry (Ravenside)
Firstly, I would like to thank everyone for a lovely entry and also to the Scottish BTC for this opportunity. Special thanks go to my two stewards for the day who kept everything running smoothly and for their good company. Although the lighting in the hall isn’t the best, it was adequate and the large square ring was perfect for watching movement, something I feel is very important in a border terrier. On that note I found my main winners to excel in this department. I was pleased to judge some strong puppy classes and also some strong adult classes
RBCC
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Open - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Placing Critique
Another quality grizzle bitch, showed in tip top condition. She has a pleasing feminine head with a keen dark eye with a shallow stop. Narrow front with tight feet. She has a great topline which she holds on the move, short carrot tail and well angulated at both ends. She moved with purpose around the ring, easily spanned. RBCC
Ladies Kennel Association
8th Dec 2023
Judge: Mr Ken Bartlett (Dwilencia)
Open - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Manchester Championship Show
20th Jan 2024
Judge: Mr Richard Allen (Penparc)
Open - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Cardiff CS Open Show
28th Jan 2024
Judge: Gillian Marley (Marylea)
Reserve Best Of Breed
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Bridgend & DKA Open Show
3rd Mar 2024
Judge: Mrs Laura Jordan-Smith (Jordith)
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Llanelli & DCS Open Show
7th Apr 2024
Judge: Miss Angie Nettle (Onziemehurst)
I would like to thanks the officers and committee of Llanelli & District Canine Society to judge the Border Terriers at their show in Carmarthen, Wales. Nice to see my BOB got Group 2 in the Terrier Group judged by Rob McLeod
Open /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Placing Critique
A quality grizzle bitch, lovely feminine head with a keen kind dark eye with a shallow stop. Narrow front with tight feet. Super top-line which she holds on the move and well angulated at both ends. Easily spanned and I loved her size. Moved well around the ring with purpose.
East Anglia Border Terrier Club Championship Show
20th Apr 2024
Judge: Mrs Elizabeth Barrett (Howthwaite)
Thank you to the committee of the East Anglia Border Terrier Club for the honour of inviting me to judge your Championship show and for your great hospitality on the day. It was hit-and-miss as to whether or not I would be judging inside or out, and I’m pleased that the committee took the decision to hold it outdoors. It is far nicer for the dogs to be outside, even with the biting wind, and we are not to forget that they are designed to be outside in that type of weather, which reiterates the importance of a good coat. I hope everyone at ringside managed to keep the chill away, myself having Cumbrian bloodlines, found it rather pleasant. Thank you to my stewards Tracey, Dave and Mike who worked tirelessly to keep the ring moving. My biggest thanks are to the exhibitors who gave me an excellent entry and took all my decisions in a sporting manner. I know it is always said there are too many good dogs for the number of cards and that was especially true of the limit and open classes. I was spoiled for choice in a number of classes and had to split hairs on a number of occasions. Dog’s are never static and can have good days and bad days just the same as us, and condition and coats can change dramatically. Some dogs were out of top coat or had no harshness to their coat on the day which cost them on this occasion. Repeating myself from my last judging appointment, I made mention that true movement isn’t necessarily conducive to good movement if no ground is covered at the same time, ideally of course we want both but I would rather see a dog with a good outline in profile than one very accurate that’s going nowhere. Good construction should be a given, I know not much mention is made to that in our breed standard, but to constitute soundness to follow a horse, the construction must be balanced and correct with no exaggeration. Thankfully, there were not many exaggerations on the day. One or two were big ribbed and not quite spannable, and surprisingly they were not necessarily the ones that looked up to size. Overall, I was very pleased with the quality of the dogs presented.
Open - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
West of England Ladies Kennel Society
26th Apr 2024
Judge: Mandy Holmes (Bimandi)
Many Thanks to WELKS for asking me to judge at their show, it was an honour, also thank you so much to everyone that entered under me, I had some great dogs to go over. Congratulation to all my winners. Thanks also go to my very competent stewards for keeping my ring running smoothly.
All the males were entire. Apart from 3 level bites all mouths were correct and teeth of good size. Temperaments were all sound except one or two that really didn’t like being in the noisy hall and were a little bit subdued. It’s hard to judge true movement on a slippery concrete floor and in some classes the placings could have changed if we had been outside on grass.
Open - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
National Dog Show
12th May 2024
Judge: Mr Patrick Glover (USA)
Open - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Scottish Kennel Club (May)
16th May 2024
Judge: Miss Rebecca Barber (Alcumlow)
Thank you to SKC for inviting me to judge at their show, I thoroughly enjoyed my day. I was very pleased with my entry, thank you to all the exhibitors who value my opinion enough to enter their dogs under me. There were some very strong classes and some very pleasing youngsters. I was very pleased with my principle winners and I was delighted to see my BOB get shortlisted in a strong group and my BPIB get TPG3 in the puppy group. It was also an honour to make up two new well deserving champions, making it three new champions in one day over the two shows, which I believe is a new breed record.
Open - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Placing Critique
Another quality bitch of excellent type, tough decision between 1 & 2. Beautiful head with keen, alert expression and dark eye. Well angulated shoulders, enough bone and good pasterns. Narrow bodylines, well ribbed back with correct depth to chest. Level topline with short, well set tail, excellent rear angulation. Active and game bitch with vigour on the move.
Class Critique
Good class of quality bitches.
Bath Canine Society
26th May 2024
Judge: Mr Ian Higham (Comberdown)
I would like to thank Mr. Lee Cox and the officers and committee of Bath Canine Society for making my wife and I feel so welcome at their show. Also my two amazingly competent stewards Mark and Joyce who were just brilliant at their job.
I found nothing obviously untoward or concerning, apart from, surprisingly, a few too heavy ones, which cost placings. We need to remember functionality.
In general, overall, this was an entry of terrific in-depth quality. What an absolute privilege it was to go over them. Thank you all so much!
Open - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Three Counties Agricultural Society
8th Jun 2024
Judge: Mr Eddie Houston (Earthwise)
My thanks to the Society for inviting me, to my very capable stewards, Bill and Tricia for their efficiency and helpfulness and especially to the exhibitors who afforded me the honour of going over their dogs.
The weather was kind and the ring of sufficient size to allow dogs to get into their stride.
Overall I felt that there was more quality in the bitches but was more than pleased with my main winners in both sexes. Size and front movement continue to be problems and coats were at all stages of growth-this did affect some placings. I only found one undershot bite and all males were entire. Several dogs were carrying rather too much condition but more worrying were the few who were almost painfully thin which also meant that these dogs couldn’t possibly possess the muscle needed for work. A number of dogs would benefit from more exercise to improve their muscletone.
Open - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Placing Critique
Lovely 31/2 year old grizzle who could have won on another day. Pleasing size, feminine head, good construction with nice length of rib, level topline and carroty tail. Shown in excellent condition and totally sound movement
Class Critique
This was the most challenging class of the day but also perhaps the most enjoyable. There was quality far beyond the placings and I have no doubt that these ladies will change places many times.
The Southern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
9th Jun 2024
Judge: Mrs. Margaret Bailey (Grindelvald)
I would like to thank the officers and committee for asking me to judge their show, it was an honour. Also for making David and myself so welcomed and the enjoyable lunch. The quality of the Borders were pleasing to go over. Big thank you to my stewards Julie and Robert, keep the classes running smoothly all day. Finally thank you to all the exhibitors who braved the cold weather, it did stay dry and allowing me to go over their dogs. All the males were entire, as usual the coats were at various stages which cost some dogs higher placing. Some wide fronts let them down, large ears were a problem in some exhibits. I was delighted with all my winners such quality.
BCC
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Best Opposite Sex
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Placing Critique
Nice size feminine bitch, strong muzzle neat ears good dark and keen expression ,narrow straight front, moderate length of neck into well laid shoulders, level topline good tail set. Good rear angulation moved with drive. She was enjoying herself in the ring. In excellent harsh double coat. BCC
Class Critique
What A Lovely Class Of Quality Bitches. They Could All Change Place On Another Day.
Blackpool & District Canine Society
23rd Jun 2024
Judge: Mrs Beverley Barber (Alcumlow)
Thank you to all of you who entered your dogs for me to judge. I really enjoyed my day and having the privilege of judging your dogs. The weather was kind and our ring was good. I had excellent stewards and I thank them for their hard work.
Open - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Windsor Championship Dog Show
29th Jun 2024
Judge: Mrs Sandra Girling (Benattivo)
Thank you to the officers and committee of Windsor Championship Dog Show for the invitation to judge at this level for the first time at such a prestigious show. I must also thank my two very experienced stewards Bill & Trish Gray who were a great support to me with their calm, friendly and pleasant manner. I would also like to express my sincere thanks to all the exhibitors who entered their border terriers under me and accepted my decisions in a sporting manner.
The weather became very hot as the day progressed with some dogs flagging a little on the move. Fortunately we had some shade via the marquee, the grass had got quite dried out and I felt a few exhibits didn’t move as well as others on it but generally movement was better than I have observed in the past. I must also mention how disappointed I was to find so many exhibits with dirty teeth, cleaning them should be part of a dog’s care and grooming routine.
I was so delighted with my top winning border terriers that I felt had exceptional breed quality and were presented and shown to best advantage.
Many quality exhibits were in some classes down the line or unplaced due to the depth of quality present and on another day may change places.
Open - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Placing Critique
Another bitch that’s quality cannot be over looked. She is unexaggerated throughout from her very good head with dark eyes giving the keen expression and then to her very good narrow body and rib which is well carried back and of a pleasing shape as is her front shoulder and hind angulation. She stands on very good legs and small neat feet with thick pads and her sound confirmation completed the picture.
Boston & District Canine Society
5th Jul 2024
Judge: Julie Green (Breckgreen & Stowthorney)
I would like to thanks the officers and committee of Boston and District Canine society for inviting me to give my first set of tickets in Border Terriers. It was such a well-run show and in such a lovely setting. I would also like to thank the exhibitors who entered under me. Thanks also to my two stewards who kept the ring moving for me on the day.
All in all, I was happy with my entry. I found all males to be entire and no kinked tails on the day. A couple of mouths that were not quite correct.
Open - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Llandysul DCS Open Show
27th Jul 2024
Judge: Mr John Scanlan (Pantycelyn)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: BIS, TG1, Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Paignton Championship Show
2nd Aug 2024
Judge: Tracey Anscombe (Orangebox)
Thank you to the officers and committee for my first-time appointment at this level. This show is my ‘local’ which made it even more special, If you have never been it is worth the trip down the M5 a warm welcome will meet you.
I was thrilled with the quality of my entry, one observation I did find a lot of untidy feet, splayed toes, long nails and thin pads, I did however find no kinked tails and only one mouth fault.
Open - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Placing Critique
Another lovely made bitch who was a delight to go over. She is slighter in build with more length than one but all in proportion and in good coat Correct front and shoulder with lovely lay of rib making her very spannable. Moved well around the ring being extremely positive in her rear action.
Vale of Glamorgan Agricultural Society Open Show
7th Aug 2024
Judge: Mr Gavin Robertson (Soletrader)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG2, Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Placing Critique
Very smart honest unexaggerated bitch, clean outline. Feminine balanced head, has strength in muzzle, clean neck with a well made front, ribs carried well back, harsh jacket and short loin, nice type. BOB
Bournemouth Championship Show
12th Aug 2024
Judge: Mrs Wendy Mooney (Chesterton)
Thank you to my stewards, Hayley and Malcolm and to all the exhibitors who endured the heat and accepted my decisions sportingly, on what must have been one of the hottest days of the year. Overall the quality of the entry was good with some lovely dogs. Mouths, tails and size were generally good. Coats varied (as they always do) in both quality and the stage of growth. There were a number of pelts that could have been thicker and loose which was disappointing as this is mentioned in the standard and important from a working point of view. I was surprised and disappointed to see evidence of scissorwork on some coats and grooming was not always done to the dog’s best advantage – this does not affect the ability to work but this is a dog show and presentation therefore does count to a degree when placing the dogs. Compared to the last time I judged, I felt that size had improved and in most cases the dogs today were closer to the standard.
Open - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Welsh Kennel Club Championship Show
16th Aug 2024
Judge: Mr Stuart Plane
Open - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Pontardulais Agricultural and Horticultural Society Open Show
26th Aug 2024
Judge: Mr Kevin Yeates (Bluebabel)
My thanks to the Secretary Gareth Thomas for inviting me to Judge Border Terriers today. I enjoyed my day, and it was good to see my B.O.B. gained TG1 & my B.P.I.B gain TPG2
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG1, Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Placing Critique
3yrs 6 months old bitch, moderately broad in skull & short strong muzzle, correct scissor bite & good earset, narrow throughout and spannable, good angulation & good on the move. Pleased to award her Best of Breed.
Joint Border Terrier Club's Championship Show
31st Aug 2024
Judge: Mr Graham Pickering (Picer)
Thank you to The Scottish Border Terrier Club for asking me to judge the Joint Show. It’s been a long time coming as I was invited to judge in 2019 and COVID 19 got in the way! I would like to thank the exhibitors who managed to attend the show after the problems caused by Storm Lilian at Driffield. I also appreciate that the absentees were higher as a result of many people having prior appointments on the day that the show was rearranged. The City of Birmingham Society where very accommodating, we had a lovely ring with plenty of space.
However, I had a super entry, and I had lots to choose from in the dogs that were able to show under me. Thank you to everyone – I really appreciate being asked to give an opinion on other people’s dogs, it’s a real honour. I would also give a special note of thanks to my steward Bill Shorthose who single handedly managed the ring and made sure everyone was in the right place at the right time. Particularly with the challenges of a partnership show and the clashes that this can cause across two rings. Thank you to all the exhibitors who managed to negotiate two shows with good heart.
When judging, I look for dogs with good heads, plenty of strength under the eye, very little stop and a good strong jaw – essentially a’ Head like that of an Otter’. I also like to see straight fronts, correct shoulder placements and tidy small feet. I found these characteristics in all of my top winners. Generally, mouths were good, although there were a couple of dogs with a tooth out of place. Movement was ok in generally, but as breed we do need to keep an eye on front movement as there were some dogs who did not move as well as they should walking towards me. All the males were entire. I was very pleased with all my placings and when choosing my top winners, I had some difficult decisions to make and so were some dogs that were very unlucky on the day.
Open - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
City of Birmingham Championship Show
31st Aug 2024
Judge: Mrs Clare Sansom (Tarkaswell)
I would like to thank the officers and committee of the City of Birmingham Canine Association Championship Dog Show for the invitation to judge at this level for the first time.
With storm Lillian resulting in the abandonment of Driffield, the JBTC were also able to hold their show in an adjacent ring. Hall 3 at the Royal Kennel Club building was light, spacious and an ideal venue. A certain amount of flexibility was required when classes clashed, and I am very grateful to my experienced stewards Chris Woolner and Caroline Wise for their hard work. They were calm, efficient and kept the ring running smoothly. With their help we finished in time to ensure that all those who had won major awards could get to their groups.
My sincere thanks to all the exhibitors for giving me such a quality entry and accepting my decisions in a sporting manner. We had very few absentees and I often had difficult decisions to make. In several classes, I would have liked some additional prize cards to award.
Coats did have an influence on the results, with those presented at their best, in a harsh, dense double jacket with thick pelt, being rewarded. A few exhibits would have benefitted from having their feet tidied to have achieved a neater picture. I found two kinked tails, two with incorrect dentition and all male dogs were entire.
I was delighted with my principal winners, who all fulfilled my interpretation of the breed standard on the day. It was a privilege to judge such an entry, and the lovely atmosphere, with applause and cheers for the winners, made it extra special.
I thoroughly enjoyed my day.
Open - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Placing Critique
A quality grizzle bitch, well constructed and balanced, who was full of character. She had a feminine head with lovely expression, well placed ears and a short, strong muzzle. Her reach of neck flowed into a good layback of shoulder. She was built on narrow lines, although I preferred the body length of my winner. She was easily spanned with a strong loin and well set tail which she carried gaily. Correctly angulated front and rear, she had straight forelimbs and neat feet. She was presented in a double coat and thick pelt which was just coming into its best. She moved with drive, a good reach of stride and clearly enjoying being with her handler.
Class Critique
A quality entry which gave me some difficult decisions. The placings between my prize winners could certainly change on another day.
Richmond Championship Show
7th Sep 2024
Judge: Mr Bob Blackley (Vaevictus)
BCC
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Placing Critique
I loved this bitch, beautiful head showing a good expression, good shape and balance to her, enough bone suitable for a bitch, excellent front, good body, topline and tail, moved well both ways with reach and drive and covered the ground well, good coat and pelt, well presented. CC
Aberystwyth & DCS Open Show
6th Oct 2024
Judge: Tania Gardner
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG1, CH Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Open /
First Place
Name at show: CH Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Tredegar DCS Open Show
19th Oct 2024
Judge: Miss Felicity Snook (Pitcombe)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG2, CH Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Open /
First Place
Name at show: CH Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Amman Valley CS Open Show
2nd Nov 2024
Judge: Mr Joe Ashe (Ebrooks)
Open /
First Place
Name at show: CH Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Port Talbot & Neath CS Open Show
10th Nov 2024
Judge: David Bell (Balintyne)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: BIS, TG1, CH Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
Open /
First Place
Name at show: CH Rockslade Russian Roulette JW
