Whittonglebe Gem

I had the most enjoyable experience from the first to last minute of my judging day, the Northern hospitality from all was exceptional and I thank the Committee for giving me such a great opportunity. The quality and depth in some classes was a real treat for me to discover on judging ‘up north’ for the first time. Thanks to my stewards who helped keep everything managed practically perfect throughout the day. I enjoyed the lunch and my gift is displayed in pride of place on the mantle. Thank you all for trusting me to take on such a wonderful show. A couple of untidy mouths, some unclean teeth but bites generally good. Found a dog and a bitch with kinks and there were a few thin pelts. Overall however I found good quality in the majority, good heads and expressions are essential but I especially like to see a dog moving forwards with drive, not pulling but setting off to get somewhere. I believe a working terrier needs good tight feet and thick pads to be able to meet the standard, most feet were good although I observed some long claws which do not help.

What a privilege it was to judge Border Terriers actually at their home in the Borders! Thank you to all exhibitors for such a flattering entry of charming dogs and thank you to all the committee and officers for your welcome, hospitality and generosity. complete with a delicious lunch. Certainly it was one of the best halls that could be imagined for a breed open show with the option to judge outside had the weather been better. I was most impressed with the hard condition of the vast majority of the entry and particularly with the thickness of pelts and short thick carrot tails. There seemed to be a sporting friendly atmosphere throughout to give me such a memorable happy day. I must just add an extra thank you to my helpful steward, Katie Hamilton, and to Margaret Boulcott, for whose great kindness, hospitality and long distance driving skills I was so grateful.

I would like to thank the club and committee for inviting me to judge their show. My ring steward on the day Lesley Roberts kept things flowing wonderfully for us all. I must pass my complements to the chef. Lunch and hospitality on the day was fantastic. All of this and some very nice dogs to go over on the day. Thank you all very much for a wonderful day.