Show Placings
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 - Dog /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Novice - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Placing Critique
Very much a puppy, in good coat and pelt, preferred him for size but needs to settle
Hyde & DCS Open Show
13th Nov 2021
Judge: Tony Hall
Puppy /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
West Midlands Terrier Society Open Show
27th Nov 2021
Judge: Gill Thomas (Sunnystone)
My thanks to the WMTS tireless committee for over riding the appalling weather and making every effort to run the show as normal. Unfortunately due to the storm there were understandably many absentees of both exhibitors & judges alike. The Border Terrier exhibitors took my standing in all in good part and I thank them for being such good sports. My thanks go of course to my indefatigable stewards Spencer Cox & Clare Robinson Cox who sailed through the process with ease and good humour as usual.
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Placing Critique
Nine month old lively wheaten, head coming, nice length of muzzle, good bite, coat developing nicely, plenty of loose skin easily spanned not too heavy in bone, free moving.
Oakengates & District Canine Society Open Show
18th Dec 2021
Judge: Mr Anthony Hadley
Junior /
Reserve
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
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 - Dog /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
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 - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Placing Critique
Litter brother to 2nd and similar comments although he had no coat today but had a super thick undercoat moved well and enjoyed his time in the ring
Post Graduate - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Placing Critique
3rd in junior
Open - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Llanelli & DCS Open Show
10th Apr 2022
Judge: Ian Biddlestone
Junior /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
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.
Novice - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Special Beginners - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Placing Critique
Grizzle. Typical head and expression. Good neck, shoulder, front and feet. Excellent coat and pelt. Scored on the move and narrow bodylines over 3rd.
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.
Special Beginners - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
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.
Novice - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Placing Critique
15 month old grizzle of a nice size, very good in head with cracking big teeth and very strong bite. Shoulders/rib very good and made up of some excellent muscle tone. Set down in a cracking jacket and his overall profile made up for a smart young dog
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.
Yearling - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Special Beginners - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Placing Critique
Reserve in yearling dog. Light grizzle and tan. Typical head with good bite, strong muzzle, flat skull and well set ears. Just right for bone. Good neck and shoulders with correct angulations. Well ribbed back, deep and narrow with good top line and short, well set tail. Shown in an excellent topcoat with good undercoat and pelt. Not always at one with his handler, but shows great promise. A well deserved 1st.
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.
Novice - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Placing Critique
A decent type with nice dark eye and broad skull. Strong in front with ample bone and OK in shoulder. Good topline leads to a short well set tail. In fit condition he moved true. Very fond of his treats.
Three Counties Championship Show
9th Jun 2022
Judge: Mrs M J Alexander (Glenbucket)
Yearling - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Blackpool & District Canine Society
26th Jun 2022
Judge: Mrs Trak Fryer (Irton)
Thanks to the exhibitors for a lovely entry, much appreciated in these difficult times. Thanks also to my stewards who not only kept the ring moving well but proved very adept at fielding judging slips, ring cards and prize cards and miscellaneous other bits and pieces flying across the ring in a very blustery wind. I thought it would be better to judge outside, the wind did upset a few dogs and those with a lot of coat were truly blown. The Border is essentially a working terrier that should combine activity with gameness – I thought that worth repeating since some seem to have forgotten it! I managed to find good heads but in general they were not strong, the head and jaw is not a cosmetic addition but an essential part of the terrier’s make up. Feet and pelts were OK but very few could be regarded as really good, again they are an essential feature required for the work the dog was bred for. Coats were all over the place very few being presented in a good sharp deep coat, however most were acceptable.
Movement remains a problem, there were feet flicking out, plaiting in front, bouncing up and down or rocking on the front – all problems with shoulder construction. The best move with that lovely unfussy ground covering drive that is so typical of the breed.
I was surprised to find several exhibits with level bites, I know the standard allows for this but it is undesirable, particularly in young dogs.
Having said all that I did find a good number of excellent very typical dogs, Limit & Open classes in both sexes were excellent and there were some promising puppies coming along.
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Placing Critique
Good head with a strong jaw, slightly heavy in ear. OK for bone, shown in a good coat and moving out very well.
Newport Agricultural Society (Shropshire) Open Show
9th Jul 2022
Judge: Mr. Andrew Brace (Tragband)
Junior /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Llandysul DCS Open Show
31st Jul 2022
Judge: Mrs N Evans (Pendevour)
Yearling /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
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.
Junior - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Novice - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Placing Critique
A masculine head with big teeth and correct bite, good expression, narrow throughout, short on coat today, good in both shoulder and rib, moved well both ways, easily spanned
Welsh Kennel Club
21st Aug 2022
Judge: Mr T Johnston
Novice - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Stafford & DCS Open Show
24th Sep 2022
Judge: Mrs Julie North (Northborders)
I would like to thank the committee for the invitation to judge Border Terriers , it was a shame it clashes with one of the Breed clubs Championship shows in the North West, I also would like to thank the exhibitors for their entry , I had some lovely dogs to go over
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Post Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Placing Critique
19mth old Grizzle and Tan
Super headed boy with correct bite and good expression, nice light frame with correct rib thats carried well back , good pelt and in excellent jacket , moved really well when he cooperated with his handler , lovely thick tight feet and nice bone, he looked like he could a days job being fit and in great condition BOB
Aberystwyth & DCS Open Show
16th Oct 2022
Judge: Paula Meacham
Post Graduate /
Reserve
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
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.
Post Graduate - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Placing Critique
typy dog, good eye & bite, pleasing front with good feet, nice overall balance with good neck to well laid shoulders, ribs back & spanable with correct double coat, good quarters with nice bend of stifle, moved & handled well.
Special Beginners - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Placing Critique
1st. In Post Graduate
Sporting Terrier of Yorkshire Open Show
13th Nov 2022
Judge: Margaret Davies (Glenorchy)
I would first like to thank the committee for their kind invitation to judge at this lovely show, also Julie for stewarding for me and last but by no means least the super entry you all gave me; it was such a pity there were so many absentees. I am pleased to say all the exhibits who came under me were presented in super condition.
Post Graduate /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Placing Critique
Good head and reach of neck which flowed into well laid shoulders. He had a good jacket but did not move as well as my winner in this class.
West Midlands Terrier Society Open Show
26th Nov 2022
Judge: Dogs Nicola Foster, Bitches Sarah Pateman
Post Graduate - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Placing Critique
Typical head, neat moderately thick ears, dark eye, correct length of neck, straight front, level topline, muscular loin, hocks well let down. Moved well when moving at faster pace.
Manchester Championship Show
20th Jan 2023
Judge: Mrs Patsy Hollings (Gunalt)
Post Graduate - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Placing Critique
Tidy chap with pleasing head and has shape depicting the breed throughout.Decent bone ,firm backline to strength of tail set. Presented with harsh topcoat and did his job.
West Midlands Terrier Society Open Show
11th Feb 2023
Judge: Mr John Scanlan (Pantycelyn)
Post Graduate - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Placing Critique
Correct bite with large teeth.Wide underjaw with dark eye, rib well back, spannable good on the move.
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 - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Placing Critique
Liked him for his size, type and overall very good confirmation. Pleasing head, masculine outlook with a good eye and alert expression. Strong neck set in well laid back shoulders and has a good return of upper arm. Firm body and well made hindquarters. Presented in tip top condition and handled well to get the best out of him in this competitive class.
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.
Post Graduate - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Placing Critique
lighter g/t with darkest ears, slightly longer muzzle than 1 and 2, narrow dog spanned with ease, in good jacket.
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 - Dog /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Llanelli and District Open Show
9th Apr 2023
Judge: Mr Keith Baldwin (Nightstorm)
Post Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Placing Critique
2 years old male, masculine otter shaped head with dark eye, scissor bite, clean shoulder, body spanned, harsh coat and good pelt, balanced angulation front and rear, tail high set well carried, strides out freely
Wrexham DKS Open Show
15th Apr 2023
Judge: Miss Vanessa Cox (Shimani)
Post Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Placing Critique
Pleasing otter like head with dark eyes and well placed ears all giving him a typical and keen expression. Narrow front, good neck and shoulders. Well ribbed back, spannable, topped off with a thick pelt and harsh jacket. Nicely proportioned in outline with well set on tail which he used well on the move. Good side gait, just slightly close behind going away
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 - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
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 - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
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 - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
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 - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
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 - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Placing Critique
2 years old grizzle, masculine head with keen expression, powerful muzzle and a good underjaw, his neck flows well into his nicely angulated shoulders and his ribs are spannable, harsh jacket covered a good pelt, racy hindquarter with well let down hocks, brisk mover well shown. While writing this report I now see he is from the Rockslade litter 14th Feb 2021, congratulation to the breeders on a cracking litter.
The Terrier Club of South Wales Open Show
14th May 2023
Judge: Mr R Wright (Borderexpress)
I would like to start by thanking the Officers and Committee of The Terrier Club Of South Wales for asking me to judge such a well organised and supported show and the wonderful hospitality on the day. Secondly to the exhibitors for the wonderful support and entry on the day of 54 dogs.
I enjoyed having the chance to go over some real quality dogs on the day and in a couple of the classes the placings could easily of been reversed. My Best Of Breed youngster showed himself really well on the day and continued to do so through to the Best In Show line up where he secured the grand honours of being awarded Best In Show by BIS Judge Mark Ord.
Post Graduate - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Placing Critique
2 Y/O grizzle dog set down in excellent condition, has a lovely otter head with correct mouth and big white teeth. He is excellent in the shoulder and lovely rib, difficult decision on these 2 dogs and on another day the placings could change – 2 very smart youngsters.
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 - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Placing Critique
G&T. Nicely proportioned head with short strong muzzle, keen expression and good dentition. Handy sized dog with good shoulders , straight forelegs and small neat feet. Very easy to span and well ribbed back with strong loin and good underline, presented with a good depth of coat and thick pelt. Moved with drive retaining a good topline.
Windsor Championship Dog Show
29th Jun 2023
Judge: Professor S P Dean (Tyrian)
My thanks to Windsor Dog Show for the judging appointment. Delayed by Covid, it is a sensible moment to retire from judging at Championship level, especially as the day was very enjoyable and a fine memory to end with. It was in fact a superb entry of high quality border terriers and my thanks to all the exhibitors, especially those who travelled long distances.
It was a delight when my BOB, Ch Otterbobs Tolsen, won the terrier group and an additional pleasure when my Best Veteran, Ch Cynetkoy Pillow Talk, placed third in the Veteran Group. Overall the borders proved to be sound and it was particularly enjoyable to find several dogs with large, strong teeth. Many were in a fit condition with firm muscle and active drive on the move. The majority had good shoulders coupled with hind quarters that looked capable of a day’s work. This correct construction translated into to good movement. The Border Terrier should remain a workmanlike terrier and future breeders need to keep that in mind.
The top decisions were decided by some of these less obvious merits and indeed my personal preferences but, in the end, I was pleased to see an entry of border terriers with so much quality. This bodes well for the future and has left me with memories of a most enjoyable day.
Post Graduate - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
East of England Agricultural Society
6th Jul 2023
Judge: Joyce Martin (Merumhor)
Many thanks to the officers and committee for the invitation to judge Border Terriers at the East of England Agricultural Society Show, which was to be the last one run by this society. It was a super venue with lovely big rings which gave the dogs a chance to stride out. Many thanks to my ring stewards Peter and Lesley Armstrong for keeping things running smoothly and efficiently. I was delighted with my entry of 109 dogs making a total entry of 149 and pleased with the overall quality of dogs shown. Thank you to the exhibitors for giving the chance to go over your dogs and for the sporting way the placings were taken. It is indeed a privilege to have the opportunity do so. I was thrilled to be able to watch the terrier group and see my BOB - Stineval Lambert JW take group 1 in a quality line up. I also was delighted to hear that my BPIB - Glebeheath Ophelia went Group 3 in the Puppy Group.
Post Graduate - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Newport Agricultural Society (Shropshire) Open Show
8th Jul 2023
Judge: Alison Kenny-Marriot (Millingford)
Thank you to the Society for inviting me to judge at this lovely, friendly dog show. Thanks to the committee for all their hard work and to my friendly stewards who kept the ring moving at all times. Thanks also to the exhibitors who brought some quality dogs for me to judge and braved the threat of thunderstorms on the day! Border Terriers A quality entry
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Placing Critique
Another eyecatching grizzle dog of quality. So well balanced all through with lovely otter head, strong muzzle and pleasing expression. Correct bite. Clean lines from neck and shoulders along topline to his racy well-muscled quarters. Good body .In excellent coat and condition and flowed round the ring with ease and showed well. Pleased to award him BOB in strong competition.
Oswestry & District Kennel Association Open Show
16th Jul 2023
Judge: Siân McKay (Redesholt)
I would like to thank the committee for the invitation to judge the Border Terriers today; and my thanks also to our steward, who kept the ring running smoothly and efficiently. If I have a plea to exhibitors it would be this: please pay attention to cleanliness of teeth and overall presentation especially feet and nails. Thank you.
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG2, Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Placing Critique
Two-year-old grizzle and tan dog who stood alone but nevertheless presented well with a strong ‘Otter” like head with a bright interested expression from dark eyes, with strong muzzle and jaws and large teeth. Good reach of neck into well laid back shoulders; and was spannable with correct topline, underline and tailset. Turned out in good order with immaculate coat and super loose pelt, whist standing on small tidy feet. He moved with sufficient reach and drive, despite being a little unsettled for handler at times today. Best of Breed today; and pleased to hear he went on to get TG2
Leeds Championship Show
29th Jul 2023
Judge: Mr Brian Aubrey (Jenabeck)
Thank you all for a wonderful entry, I had to make some difficult choices on the day, but as always, I judge the dog on the day friend or foe and not what the dog as done in the past or what it will do in the future.
a few things did concern me on the day (1 ) so Many dirty teeth, (2) a few unfit dogs due to being overweight, (3) and the most concerning is short legs on one or two of the borders,
Post Graduate - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Llandysul DCS Open Show
30th Jul 2023
Judge: Miss Felicity Snook (Pitcombe)
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Paignton Championship Show
5th Aug 2023
Judge: Colin Powell (Bowtman)
Open - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
The Midland Border Terrier Club Championship Show
6th Aug 2023
Judge: Mr. Bob Wright (Totherend)
It was a real honour to judge my home club’s show and my thanks go to a great committee for the opportunity and the way they run the club with all hands to the wheel. Richard Wright and Sharon Pickering had my back and have my appreciation for a great day’s stewarding.
I was disappointed in the early dog classes where what initially looked like an impressive line-up failed to materialise once on the table or on the move. Movement was a weak spot for a surprisingly large number of exhibits, especially front movement. There were three poor mouths and one exhibit that couldn’t be spanned but lots of good pelts, coats and neat feet. However long tails are becoming more common and a true carrot tail is about as rare as hen’s teeth. I was fascinated by some handlers interpretation of a triangle, suffice to say it’s a good job it wasn’t a maths exam.
Once again there were only two CCs available which is a great shame when there are so many who warrant them. I can only sympathise with those who went home empty handed. It was most likely a reflection of the strength of the classes rather than their standing. The bitch classes were especially strong with at least six exhibits worthy of much more than I had available to offer. When it came to the line ups I was clearly torn and had to be really picky to get to a decision but in the end I was pleased with all the winners.
Whilst there is still much that can be done to improve some aspects of the breed there is a lot to be proud of with some really stunning exhibits out there.
Post Graduate - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Pontardulais Agricultural & Horticultural Society
28th Aug 2023
Judge: Mrs Sue Spafford (Dassett)
Reserve Best Of Breed
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Post Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Placing Critique
Grizzle dog, of good size, good length of neck, level top line with tail set well on. Narrow throughout, in thick double coat which gave him the class.
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.
Limit - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Class Critique
Some lovely dogs in this class.
The Scottish Kennel Club
1st Oct 2023
Judge: Mr M Armstrong (Bitcon)
Limit - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Placing Critique
Pleasing type, nice head, eye and expression, good bite, nice bone and feet, good length of ribs, strong top-line and quarters, harsh coat and easy span, moved ok
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.
Limit - Dog /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Midland Counties Championship Show
26th Oct 2023
Judge: Mr J Gilpin (Otterbobs)
I would like to thank the officers & committee for giving me the opportunity to judge the Border Terrier classes, & also a big thank you to Penny Winger & Gavin Argill my two ring stewards who kept things in order & also made sure we finished on time, and a special mention to my Best of Breed winner for attending the terrier group, and being rewarded with being short listed in the final seven.
Limit - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Amman Valley CS Open Show
4th Nov 2023
Judge: Mr Ken Andrews (South Wales)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG2, Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Ladies Kennel Association
8th Dec 2023
Judge: Mr Ken Bartlett (Dwilencia)
Limit - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Placing Critique
Good shaped head with broad skull, good ears, strong muzzle well ribbed and spannable, firm in topline, keeps his shape on the move.
Manchester Championship Show
20th Jan 2024
Judge: Mr Richard Allen (Penparc)
Limit - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
South Wales Kennel Association Open Show
10th Feb 2024
Judge: Martin Hacker
Open /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
The Terrier Club of South Wales Open Show
11th Feb 2024
Judge: Sarah Pateman (Lessien)
First, I would like to thank the committee for inviting me to judge my breed the Border Terrier, then the Irish Terrier and all the handling classes.
This show was so friendly, and I was looked after from the minute I arrived till the moment I left.
Thank you, Tina Jones, for the delicious food and Richard Wright for being my steward for all my judging classes including the Irish Terriers and all the handling classes.
What an amazing entry I had although a few absentees the class of dogs present were of good quality, and I am very grateful to all exhibitors who entrusted in me to go over their dogs and accepting my decisions on the day
Limit - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
The Southern Border Terrier Club Open Show
3rd Mar 2024
Judge: Miss Nicola Foster (Thozow)
It was a great honour to be invited to Judge a Border Terrier Club Open show so I would like to thank the Southern Club for this opportunity. It was a day I had been looking forward too, so I would also like to thank the exhibitors for their entries, allowing me to access their dogs and for accepting my decisions. I was most grateful to my stewards Sian McKay & Marina Fleming who kept the ring running efficiently, and also live streamed the challenges and BIS.
Limit - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Placing Critique
Nothing is overstated with this dog with good balance, although lighter in bone than 1. He has a keen expression with moderate v shaped ears and a good bite. Neat tight feet with a straight front and elbows tucked in, narrow throughout, with correct tail set. Moved well.
Oswestry & District Kennel Association Open Show
17th Mar 2024
Judge: Mr Kevin Yeates (Bluebabel)
I’d like to thank the committee for appointing me for this show. With 16 dogs entered and 2 absent I was very pleased with my above average entry for this show. All the dogs had good dentition, and coats generally good
Open /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
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.
Limit - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Aberystwyth & DCS Open Show
6th May 2024
Judge: Sue Thomson (Ashgate)
Open - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Evesham & DCS Open Show
14th Jul 2024
Judge: Mrs Vanessa Cox (Pettipaws)
Open - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Wrexham DKS Open Show
20th Jul 2024
Judge: Mrs Hilary Male (Malenbrook)
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Placing Critique
Balanced grizzle and tan dog with a masculine head of good proportions and keen expression, moderate length of neck with flows into well placed shoulders, straight front leading to small feet, deep chested, ribs well spanned, moderate rear end, in excellent harsh coat, moved well when settled, but gives his handler a hard time.
Oswestry & District Kennel Association Open Show
21st Jul 2024
Judge: Mrs V Atkinson (Raedwulf)
Thank you for inviting me to judge at this friendly and well run show. It was a pleasure to go over some lovely dogs and to see my decisions taken sportingly.
Open /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
The Midland Border Terrier Club 40th Anniversary Championship Show
4th Aug 2024
Judge: Mrs Jill Stevens (Cobstoneway)
I would like to thank the officers and committee of the club for inviting me to judge this 40th Anniversary show, and for the hospitality on the day. Thank you also to the hardworking stewards, it was a long and very busy day. Most of all, thank you to the exhibitors for giving me such a fabulous entry. I appreciated each and every exhibit, and had the privilege of going over so many quality dogs that difficult decisions had to be made and many lovely dogs went cardless. Foremost, I see the Border Terrier as ‘essentially a working terrier’ and was therefore looking for construction that would render this possible. A few exhibits were too big, too wide or too deep in brisket which might prevent them from going to ground, or even cause them to get stuck. A few had very thin skin – skin must be thick. Most bites were good, just a few with teeth out of line or missing. Coats come and go, so were understandably at different stages. However, on a working terrier a good hard coat does complete the picture. Good movement and a strong, even, economical gait comes from soundness of construction and the muscle tone of a well exercised dog. Therefore I looked for good layback of shoulder and the correct length and angle of upper arm to give a good reach in front, a strong loin, good bend of stifle and well angulated, well muscled hindquarters to give matching drive from the rear.
Special Challenge - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Bournemouth CS Open Show
9th Aug 2024
Judge: Nicola Foster (Thozow)
Open /
Reserve
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
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.
Limit - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Placing Critique
Nice type, light grizzle who lost out to the winner on movement. Shown well he was of correct proportion and size. Lovely otter head with attractive dark ears. Good reach of neck flowing into an excellent topline. Narrow front and good profile with enough bend in stifle to complete a good outline. Showed and shown well.
Welsh Kennel Club Championship Show
16th Aug 2024
Judge: Mr Stuart Plane
Limit - Dog /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
Aberystwyth & DCS Open Show
6th Oct 2024
Judge: Tania Gardner
Open /
Third Place
Name at show: Rockslade Romeo’s Revenge
