Show Placings
Herts & Essex Border Canine Society Open Show
24th Mar 2018
Judge: Mr Robert Brewster (Stowthorney & Breckgreen)
Firstly, I would like to thank the committee of Herts & Essex Border Canine Society for inviting me to judge a lovely entry of border terriers. Secondly, I would like to thank the exhibitors for entering under me and excepting my decisions gracefully.
Best Puppy
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Puppy /
First Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Placing Critique
7 month old grizzle and tan bitch puppy. Good scissor bite, typical otter head with good expression. Lovely dark eye. Good reach of neck into nice lay of shoulder. Good in rib and very easy to span. Nice topline and tailset. In good harsh double coat. Moved well. Pleased to award her Best Puppy.
Dunstable & DCS Open Show
2nd Apr 2018
Judge: Mr Eddie Webster (Benjcroft)
Best Puppy
Name at show: RBPIS, TPG1, Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Puppy /
First Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
National Terrier Club
7th Apr 2018
Judge: Mr. W. R. Irving
Thanks to the exhibitors for the entry of 160 from 157 dogs.
There were some very strong classes and interestingly the biggest class was Limit Dog with seventeen entries. My biggest worry about the overall entry was that there seemed be some very large exhibits which were well over the standard size. Even in bitches there were a good number that were too big and in dogs some were enormous. And it was not so much that they were too leggy - rather that so many were far from being able to be spanned. I think we really ought to try to do something about that.
Heads were by and large good but there were quite a few with big ears. Coats of course were variable and I only found one really bad mouth and one kinked tail.
Movement left a bit to be desired especially in front but I was disappointed also that so many were not moving well behind either.
My thanks to my two very efficient stewards which enabled us to finish by around 1 p.m. and to the exhibitors most of whom seemed to take my decisions in the sporting way befitting the breed
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Class Critique
The first two here were close up and of similar size, maturity and proportions.
The East Anglia Border Terrier Club Championship Show
8th Apr 2018
Judge: Mr David Hunt (Ottaswell)
With apologies for the delay in submitting this critique.
My sincere thanks to the officers and committee of East Anglia Border Terrier Club for offering me this appointment.
Huge thanks to my sole steward Rob Brewster who efficiently organised the ring and exhibits all day despite being in poor health and needing constant medication throughout the day. Most of all my appreciation to the exhibitors for giving me the opportunity to assess your dogs.
With the ever rising cost of suitable venues, it was necessary to move this show from the much appreciated previous Burgess Hall at St Ives to a new Leisure Centre at Littleport. On the day the huge venue was shared with a large number of indoor bowls enthusiasts which meant there was a longish walk from the large car park to our hall. The hall itself was large enough but dog cages all around the hall gave rise to lots of noise and distraction from barking dogs which was very evident when listening to my dictaphone. At lunchtime, with lots of people all trying to use the cafe/restaurant at the same time, this caused long queues and even longer waiting times for food and drinks to arrive, which in turn meant the lunch break overran.
I had the honour of judging the first border terrier club show to schedule Champion dog and bitch classes.
Prior to the show I was undecided about such classes but having here seen the smallish entries for both Open and Champions on reflection I see little point or need for them.
As always coats were at various stages but the exhibits were with a few exceptions in good condition. All males were entire. Bites were better than at previous appointments and I only found a few with misplaced teeth, however the size of teeth varies considerably. Although not a fault, I noticed a few liver noses. Several exhibits could benefit from attention to feet to produce the small feet as required. Movement in general was better at the rear than in front with too many swinging fronts, moving wide or toeing in.
Special Beginners - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
The Southern Border Terrier Club Limit Show
15th Apr 2018
Judge: Ms Tina Jones (Otterholme)
My sincere thanks to the committee for the kind invitation to judge at my first club show, I enjoyed the day immensely. Thank you to my efficient stewards Tina Morgan, Rachel Larner and Wendy Mooney, show manager for keeping things running so smoothly.
My thanks must go to the exhibitors for bringing along their dogs today, and the sporting acceptance of my decisions.
I did note some untypical heads, which for me lacked for me the characterising feature of the breed, I found such heads to be somewhat exaggerated with too much stop, not the ‘moderately’ broad skull I was looking for.
On the whole, I found mouths were good, a couple of level bites, and one or two with misaligned teeth, but it was pleasing to find big strong teeth in most exhibits.
I was very pleased with my class winners; some decisions were very close especially in the bitch classes. In both sexes there were some promising youngsters coming through which can only auger well for the breed.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Class Critique
A lovely class
Novice - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Placing Critique
presented in good order lovely typey bitch,nice typical head on this one , narrow and racy throughout with enough substance, felt she moved better here, than in her previous class which secured her win.
West of England Ladies' Kennel Society
28th Apr 2018
Judge: Miss Anita Harrison (Iacheslei)
Many thanks to the society for inviting me to judge and to the exhibitors for a lovely entry of 117 making 151. My very efficient stewards did a marvelous job and kept the ring running well throughout the day. I thoroughly enjoyed my day and was pleased that exhibitors accepted my decisions in a sporting manner. There was a good atmosphere around the ring and all exhibits displayed good temperaments. I was disappointed to see so many large oversized dogs (and bitches) which were not able to be spanned. Movement was also a concern, I was forgiving of loose front movement in some of the youngsters, but both front and rear movement in some of the adult exhibits was poor. Many exhibits had large ears, low tail sets or short round ribs which had to be penalized. I was pleased with my main winners and delighted to see my Best of Breed shortlisted in the group and the Best Special Beginner placed 2nd in the SB group.
Special Beginners - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Placing Critique
8 months old grizzle, a pretty bitch with a good dark eye. Ears a little heavy. Not quite the outline or front of 1.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Bath Championship Show
25th May 2018
Judge: Mr Ken Bartlett
My thanks to Bath Canine Society for the inviting me to judge at their show also my two stewards who kept things running smoothly.
Special Beginners in Breed
Name at show: SBG2, Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Special Beginners - Dog or Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Placing Critique
a lovey young bitch, pleasing in head eyes and coat moved o.k. pleased to watch her get 2nd in special beginners group.
Puppy - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Boston and District Canine Society Premier Open Show.
29th May 2018
Judge: Carol Dunford (Quixol)
Best Puppy
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Puppy /
First Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Southern Counties Canine Association
2nd Jun 2018
Judge: Mr Frank Nicholls (Halcus)
Thanks to the exhibitors for an excellent entry. Quality was present in many classes especially both open classes and minor puppy dog. My thanks for a job well done go to those excellent stewards Janet and Maureen, who made my job so much easier.
Good Citizen - Dog or Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Puppy - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Placing Critique
Red grizzle coat a bit thin in texture, good angulation at the back , nice head.
Three Counties
7th Jun 2018
Judge: Mrs T J Baird
I would like to extend my sincerest thanks to the society for the invitation to judge and for the wonderful welcome and hospitality.
The day was made even more pleasurable thanks to my two lovely stewards Colin and Margret who kept the ring in order and most importantly were pleasant and friendly.
The ring was a very good size;it was a joy to judge outside with the beautiful back drop of the Malvern Hills ,even the weather was perfect -not too hot and a slight breeze. The ground however was uneven with the grass rather long, causing some dogs to hop and skip making assessment of some dog’s movement difficult.
I found a good breadth of quality in some of the Bitch classes and some nit picking decisions had to be made, notably in the excellent junior bitch class.
Size needs to be watched as some youngsters were very difficult to span, coats were on the whole very good with just a few that had recently been stripped out and a couple of blown coats.
A of couple of exhibits had kinked tails and a couple of youngsters with level bites, all the males were entire.
Thank you to the sporting exhibitors for entering and accepting my decisions, I am honoured to judge so many quality Border terriers and was pleased to watch the best of breed short listed in the group, later hearing the puppy gained Puppy group 4.
Puppy - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
The Southern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
9th Jun 2018
Judge: Mr W Shorthose (Cundytyke)
It is always a particular honour to judge a Breed Club Championship Show and my thanks go to the committee for their hospitality and my stewards who kept things running smoothly. I found only two poor mouths but more had wrong, thin skins and some needed to go home for a good feed. A working terrier needs to be correctly muscled and too many needed nourishment and exercise. The biggest problem, however, remains poor front movement showing both incorrect shoulders and, for some, over angulation in the hindquarters.
Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Placing Critique
Neat bitch who moved soundly. Well angulated both in shoulder and hindquarters. Bit short of coat today but basics present.
Newmarket Canine Society Open Show
10th Jun 2018
Judge: Mr A Goodsell (Li8vewyre)
Reserve Best Of Breed
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Best Puppy
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Windsor
29th Jun 2018
Judge: Miss Sarah Dandy (Dandale)
I was pleased with the quality of both my dog and bitch line ups, all were worthy winners with several most promising youngsters in both puppy and junior classes. I do like to watch movement in profile not only does it give a good indication of conformation but also the ability to follow a horse efficiently, so essential to the fitness for purpose of this working breed. I noted a lack of angulation front and back in many which restricts reach and drive. Untidy feet with unclipped nails do somewhat spoil the overall picture when an exhibit is standing on the table and can be easily fixed. Temperaments were uniformly sound which is of great importance and I thought the dogs (and exhibitors) coped really well in the extremely hot temperatures today.
Puppy - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
East of England Agricultural Society
6th Jul 2018
Judge: Mr Bob Wright (Totherend)
Many thanks to the East of England Agricultural Society for the opportunity to judge my fist Championship Show and to the excellent stewards who nursed me through with efficiency and humour. I was humbled by the size of entry and the willingness of the exhibitors to travel the length and breadth of the country despite the intense heat from which we tried to protect the dogs as much as possible.
I was particularly impressed by the quality of the open classes which were peppered with exhibits worthy of a ticket but unfortunately they only gave me two. A large number of exhibits were up to size and only just spannable but thankfully many of them were also narrow. I found one kinked tail, several borderline mouths and many promising exhibits that disappointed in the width or movement of their fronts. There was also a dearth of muscle particularly on the upper thighs but there were plenty of loose thick pelts and harsh coats. I was delighted not only with my winners but many of those who came close but regretfully had to leave empty handed despite being worthy of more.
Puppy - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Placing Critique
Good head and eyes, deep chest but narrow and spannable, plenty of bone, slightly sloping topline to good carrot tail, racey hindquarters with good rear angulation.
Kingston CS Open Show
15th Jul 2018
Judge: Gill Thomas (Sunnystone)
Reserve Best Of Breed
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Best Puppy
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Paignton
4th Aug 2018
Judge: Professor A S Milton
I suspect I shall retire from judging now. I certainly have no intention, when it comes into effect, of paying the Kennel Club to get on their judging lists. I have always assumed, though I may be wrong, that I have been invited to judge because people wanted me to. I have no intention of 'prostituting’ my art by paying money for the privilege. If I may reminisce, I have never sought a judging appointment, indeed in the beginning I had never even thought about judging. Then one day a letter arrived from the secretary of a large open show in Scotland. Would I judge the terrier breeds and the terrier group at their next open show? I have, to this day, no idea who suggested my name. I had never judged before, not even a match or a limited show, I was on no judging list, they didn’t exist in those days, I had never stewarded, and have never done so to this day, I have to this day never attended any hands on or assessment seminar. After my first appointment invitations came at fairly frequent intervals, including two breed clubs, and eventually I received an invitation to judge at a Championship show. However, when I replied, with my judging cv, the committee told me that they couldn't continue with my appointment, as the Kennel Club would not accept the nomination owing to the 'parochial' range of my judging, which had, with one exception, all been in Scotland. Notwithstanding that for example two of the shows had been over 200 miles apart, and from my home to the breed club show in England over 500 miles. Peter Thompson (Thoraldby) and Sybil Churchill came to my rescue and I found myself judging at LKA.
A few thoughts on Border Terriers. Size has always been a problem, right from the beginning of the breed, with there being far too many large dogs, outside the weight standard, and the numbers seem to be getting larger (forgive the pun). I blame the breeders for this. In one class at Paignton, there was only one dog, which I could span. Movement is another problem; the trend at the moment seems to be very narrow hindquarters, with the feet nearly touching. In 1991, I made a video of Crufts with the late R.A. Williams judging. Almost without exception all the dogs are in full coat. (A few years ago there was a pirated video made of this tape). In the book 'About the Border Terrier', Walter Gardner says 'It is difficult to judge Border coats today because so often the dogs are stripped, well nigh skinned'. Two personal gripes, Border should be walked on a loose lead, not strung up, and should stand naturally, I do particularly dislike those exhibitors who are continually fussing with their dogs, moving a foot a cm here, a cm there and the like.
I should like to thank the committee of the Paignton show for inviting me to judge. They were all very helpful, and also the vets at the show who kindly looked after my young puppy which I had, perforce, to bring with me, whilst I was judging.
Best Puppy - Bitch
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Placing Critique
Super little bitch with lots of promise. Attractive feminine head, well constructed, with excellent top line and good tail set. Excellent front and well angulated hind quarters. Coat needs to improve. Excellent mover.
The Midland Border Terrier Club Championship Show
5th Aug 2018
Judge: Dogs: Jimmy Gilpin, Bitches: Hilary Gilpin
Bitches :- Thank you to the committee for the very kind invitation to judge the bitches at your always sunny show, yes it was very hot but all dogs were underneath the gazebo when not being assessed. Thank you to all who exhibited in the hot afternoon sun, we all coped very well.
I've had BT's since 1978 and started showing in 1986, I have meet quite a few friends along the way and judged many BT's, today I found some lovely exhibits as you always do, the downside was so many other dogs really had poor movement both front and rear. Handlers must watch their dogs as bad movement is a no no for me. Coats were mainly good, some with no coat at all and were penalised accordingly. In all the bitches there was only one undershot mouth.
I totally agreed with the dog judge for best in show, the dog stood out for us both, in movement, confirmation and type. Judge Hilary Gilpin
Puppy - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Kent County CA Open Show
19th Aug 2018
Judge: Derfal Owen (Sirfon)
Reserve Best Of Breed
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Junior /
Second Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Salisbury and South Wilts Canine Society Open Show
26th Aug 2018
Judge: Mr Robert Goddard (Awbrooksky)
Reserve Best Of Breed
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Placing Critique
Female grizzle and tan with a lovely feminine otter head,good bite,alert expression,good neck into very good shoulder,straight front,nice length of rib,thick coat with loose pelt,good tail set,moves true with reach and drive,handled well, RBOB
City of Birmingham
1st Sep 2018
Judge: Mr Dave Matthews (Tojamatt)
Many thanks to City of Birmingham Canine Society for giving me the opportunity to judge this show , my first Championship show, may I also thank every exhibitor who entered the show ,and also my steward Alan Tomlinson for his help.
I enjoyed my day ,I was very pleased with the entry,I had some difficult decisions to make on the day .
The ring was of a good size and that gave the exibits the chance to get into there stride,front movement on some exibits was a little loose ,but I had some real good movers, a few low set tails are creeping in to the breed ,Iwas pleased with the condition and presentation of the exhibits ,I found some really good pelts and coats, I am pleased to say the the day passed without a cross word from any of the exibits ,I was pleased with heads and expression , some foreign expressions had been appearing in recent years.
May I again thank you all for the chance to go over your dogs , and for the way you accepted my decisions .
Good Citizen - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Richmond Championship Show
8th Sep 2018
Judge: Mrs Patsy Hollings (Gunalt)
As always at this show, everything runs smoothly and hospitality is first rate. Thank you. I really enjoyed this appointment with many quality Borders to choose from.
Junior - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Placing Critique
Lots to reward here as she is sound with lovely balanced head and qualities throughout. Nothing overdone or weak. Totally feminine. Moves with soundness and spirit. Grand condition and coat.
The London & Home Counties Terrier Club
9th Sep 2018
Judge: Ms Tina Jones (Otterholme)
Post Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Southern Border Terrier Club Open Show
16th Sep 2018
Judge: Mr Julien Barney (Romaunt)
A big thank you to the committee for giving me the opportunity to judge at this well run show. A super sporting atmosphere around the ring on a very pleasant sunny autumn afternoon.
My general comments would be about heads and the lack of that typical Otter look with a good skull and a powerful muzzle required to do their job. Front movement in some wasn’t good being tied in front and I wonder how well they would be able to follow a horse for a good days hunting. Plus size seemed to be an issue with some being well up to the limit.
Junior - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Grantham & District Canine Society Open Show
13th Oct 2018
Judge: Mr R Brewster (Breckgreen / Stowthorney)
I would like to thank the committee of Grantham and District CS for inviting me to judge at their Open Show on 13th October 20018. I would also like to thank the exhibitors for entering under me. I had a quality entry of beautiful dogs.
Junior /
Third Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Gravesend & Medway Towns CS Open Show
21st Oct 2018
Judge: Anne Speake
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Midland Counties Canine Society
27th Oct 2018
Judge: Mrs. Margaret Bailey (Grindelvald)
IT WAS AN HONOUR TO JUDGE THE MIDLAND COUNTIES CS ON THEIR 50TH ANNIVERSARY.
ALSO MANY THANKS TO THE EXHIBITORS FOR ENTERING THEIR DOGS UNDER ME & MY STEWARDS KEPT THE RING RUNNING SMOOTHLY, WITH SUCH AN EXCELLENT ENTRY.
ALL DOGS WERE ENTIRE, 1 OR 2 DISAPPOINTING MOUTHS. I’M AMAZED THE AMOUNT OF TIT-BITS SOME OF THE EXHIBITORS GAVE THEIR DOGS, ESPECIALLY ON THE TABLE MOST WERE BEING REWARDED FOR BAD BEHAVIOUR, THE WORSE THE DOG BEHAVIED THE MORE FOOD THEY GOT. I FOUND SOME OF THEM ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO EXAMINE, MAYBE MORE RING CRAFT CLASSES WOULD HELP!
IT IS VERY PROMISING TO SEE SOME QUAILITY PUPPIES COMING THROUGH. STILL A FEW DODGY FRONTS. OVERALL THE QUALITY IS IMPROVING. PLEASED TO SEE NO AGGRESIVE BEHAVIOUR IN THE BREED, IN OR OUT OF THE RINGTODAY.
NICE TO SEE MY BOB WINNER WENT ON TO WIN THE TERRIER GROUP. I UNDERSTAND FROM THE OWNER THIS WAS HIS LAST SHOW AS THE DOG IS BEING RETIRED FROM SHOWING .A DELIGHT TO JUDGE HIM.
IT WAS A REAL PLEASURE TO JUDGE ALLTHE DOGS WHO CAME UNDER ME.
Junior - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Placing Critique
GOOD HEAD& EXPRESSION HEAVIER IN SHOULDERS THAN 1, SHOWN IN HARSH COAT, MOVED WELL.
East Kent Canine Society Open Show
4th Nov 2018
Judge: Dr Ian Gabriel (Gaybryl)
Post Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Huntingdonshire CS Open Show
10th Nov 2018
Judge: Mr R Eastall (Daedal0
Junior /
Second Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Crystal Palace Canine Association Open Show
17th Nov 2018
Judge: Mr Andreas Schemel (Bentwood)
Junior /
Second Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Camberley DCS Open Show
18th Nov 2018
Judge: Helen Bradford (Flintwyre)
Junior /
Second Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
East Anglia Border Terrier Club Open Show
25th Nov 2018
Judge: Mr Colin Girling (Benattivo)
Many thanks for the invitation to judge and for the warm welcome and support received on the day, special mention to my lead steward Robert Brewster. I was pleased that I received such large minor puppy entries in both dogs and bitches; it was lovely to see the youngsters and so many new and enthusiastic exhibitors too. The show represented a first outing for some and I hope the day was enjoyable for both four and two legged beginners. Overall the exhibits were well turned out and in good condition with only a few slightly overweight and some dirty or stained teeth; coats were at both ends of the scale. I really did feel the show had a good sporting atmosphere throughout the day and I thank all those who attended for making it a thoroughly enjoyable experience.
Junior - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Special Beginners - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Horsham & District CS Open Show
29th Nov 2018
Judge: Mr Rob Mcleod (Dunline)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG4, Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Woolwich and Bexley DCS Open Show
2nd Dec 2018
Judge: Mr Tim Ball (Kaitac)
Post Graduate /
Third Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Guildford & DCS Open Show
8th Dec 2018
Judge: Mr Matt Smith (Alncroft)
Thank you to the society for the invitation to take over this appointment and to the Southern Border Terrier club for putting me forward. I always enjoy judging Borders and was pleased with the quality in this entry. Having grown up with earth working terriers I am always mindful when judging of the true original function of this breed.
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Placing Critique
16 month old bitch in strong fit condition. Lacking in coat today. Good head, ok for size. Pleasing angulation with strong quarters. Moved very well particularly coming and going.
Graduate /
Second Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Ladies Kennel Association
16th Dec 2018
Judge: Mrs. K. Wilkinson (Otterkin)
Thanks to the exhibitors for a super entry of Border Terriers. As I repeatedly say, the shows are about the dogs and the exhibitors and are not held for the benefit of the judges, so I appreciated the honour of going over your dogs. Thanks also to the ring stewards Angie Feildsend and Andrea Caudrelier who kept everything flowing smoothly so that we finished in good time. With an entry of 148 dogs making 159 entries, we had the highest entry in the Terrier Group and what a lovely entry it was that awaited me on 16th December. As my finalists came into the ring for each set of CCs, I thought "I like all these!!"
After the show was over, I was told that the four dogs I had brought together at the top of the ring, when deciding on the Dog CC, were all related to one dog and in fact three of them were by that same dog, one I have often referred to in the past when discussing stud dogs with people, as a dog who consistently puts breed type on his progeny, so I was thrilled to be told that Ch Grindelvald In Full Cry JW sired three of the dogs and was the great grandsire of the fourth and to confirm that in the catalogue later. Congratulations to Mrs Margaret Bailey on breeding and owning a dog who clearly puts his breed type stamp on his progeny.
Unless something changes drastically with the Judges Competency Framework, this will be my last General Championship Show appointment and so, when asking for the name of the dog to whom I had awarded the CC and Best of Breed at the end when I was filling in the Award Cards, it was fitting that I then found out his name was Dassett Last Waltz JW. So pleased to later see him pulled out in the shortcut in the Terrier Group. Good luck for the future.
Junior - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Placing Critique
Beautiful feminine otterhead on this lighter grizzle and tan bitch, with a strong jaw, though prefer the fill under the eye on the first two. Good ear placement. Possessing a nicely shaped rib, she was easily spanned. Excellent topline and tailset. Another with cat like feet, she was another good prospect.
Yearling - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Placing Critique
3rd in Junior bitch (see notes in that class).
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Placing Critique
Moving up in this class, she had been 3rd in her previous two classes (see critique in Junior Bitch class). Lovely make and shape. Stood away for type and movement in this class.
Boston & District Canine Society
6th Jan 2019
Judge: Mrs Beverley Barber (Alcumlow)
Thank you to all exhibitors who entered their dogs for me to judge. Thank you to Boston Show Society for inviting me to judge and putting on a very well organised event. Running these events is hard work and takes a lot of organising. The breed has changed a lot in the thirty years I have owned and been part of. Heads are very varied and lack strength under the eye so giving a weaker muzzle and too many domed skulls. Good movement is hard to find too many borders just mark time. Coats were varied but it is a difficult time of the year and I am not a fan of the over tidied coat or worrying about perfect presentation but a little attention to detail helps. A lot of long nails and excess hair on the feet, and a lot of long hair left on sides of the head and muzzles. My judging is based on good shape and conformation in accordance with the breed standard and of course good movement that allows the dog to cover the ground with ease. No animal is perfect and we all judge in our own way but I enjoyed today's challenge.
Yearling - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Special Beginners - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Placing Critique
Pleasing young bitch, nice head with flat skull, overall pleasing shape, just needs to mature.
Ashford and Faversham DCS
13th Jan 2019
Judge: Jane Hilden
Junior /
Second Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Post Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Open /
Third Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Manchester Championship Show
18th Jan 2019
Judge: Mrs. Kathy Newsome (Kighill)
My first judging appointment at a Championship show and what a lovely day I had. Firstly I would like to thank the Manchester Dog Society for inviting me to judge their show, and also to all the exhibitors for showing their support.
I had a lovely selection of dogs and I was very pleased with the quality that came before me. All dogs were entire and mouths were good. Some dogs could have done with being tidied up a little more.
Junior - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Open - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Isle of Eley CS Open Show
2nd Feb 2019
Judge: Jane Eyeington (Meadowdale)
Thank you for a lovely entry, I was spoilt for choice, super dogs
Junior /
Second Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Placing Critique
Another lovely bitch, close up to winner, of a slightly different stamp. She is of a nice size, having a little more substance than winner, but oh so feminine. Lovely well balanced head, so keen and alert from those dark eyes. Deep through the body, firm topline, well set on carrot tail. Shown with a harsh coat. Moving well
Post Graduate /
Second Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Placing Critique
Repeat 2nd Junior
Open /
Third Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
East Kent CS Open Show
3rd Feb 2019
Judge: Tan Nagrecha (Chandlimore)
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Post Graduate /
Second Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Open /
Second Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Kent CA Open Show
24th Feb 2019
Judge: Gill Thomas(Sunnystone)
Open /
Third Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Southern Border Terrier Club Limited Show
3rd Mar 2019
Judge: Mrs Karen Stockley (Foxfactor)
I would like to thank the SBTC committee for inviting me to judge their show and for the lovely gift,a day I thoroughly enjoyed with some lovely exhibits to have the pleasure of going over.
A big thank you to my stewards Jill Stevens and Tina Morgan who very efficiently kept the classes running smoothly throughout the day.
Thanks also to all the exhibitors who entered and those present on the day.
I found a great percentage of the exhibits in good muscle tone and condition, coats as always at different stages but many in good harsh double jackets, disappointingly quite a few thin pelts and a lack of real carroty tails, just a couple with incorrect dentition and one kinked tail. All dogs were entire and all dogs and bitches displaying good temperaments in the ring.
I was pleased with both my final line ups. There were some lovely puppies forward which I love judging and some close decisions there.
Graduate - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Crufts
9th Mar 2019
Judge: Mrs Trak Fryer (Irton)
A very great thank you to the exhibitors for giving me such a superb entry, I hope that I did it justice. My thanks must also go to my Stewards who worked very hard to keep the classes moving well.
This was a very challenging entry with some very big classes filled with quality dogs all the way through, there were no easy decisions. I tried to pull out all the dogs that I felt were in contention to give those exhibits a closer look. This meant that those out of coat or condition paid the penalty. particularly in the upper classes many super quality dogs had to go out without a place - I just didn't have enough cards.
On the plus side all the exhibits were good tempered and happy in the ring. Most dogs came with a good coat on and a decent pelt. There were plenty of good heads and neat well balanced Borders, the key to the Standard. The Breed Standard asks for a dog that can run, requiring heart and lung room, and that can go to ground, requiring a good rib carried back without exaggerated angulations, a rather challenging blueprint to fit into a fairly small package.
There were quite a number with rather heavy or thin ears, round eyes and I was surprised to find quite a number of “winter noses”; I did not necessarily penalise these if the rest was OK. There were a number of heads with weak jaws framed by sticky out ears, a worrying trend. There were some heavy bitches well beyond spannable.
The biggest problem is movement with the forward angulations mostly at fault, this has been a problem in the breed for some time but there are now a significant number with tied in fronts waving their forelegs about, a new variant!
A well made dog will just cover the ground without any fuss or flipping – a joy to see. In order to do this they also need a reasonable build of muscle and it is a constant concern of mine that so many that come into the show ring do not have this.
Good Citizen - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Placing Critique
Quite a nice type of bitch from the yearling class. Good head & expression, in decent coat with nice tight feet, good tail & tailset, moving well.
Class Critique
A bit of a mixed class from the previous entries.
Dunstable & DCS Open Show
22nd Apr 2019
Judge: Mandy Holmes (Bimandi)
Post Graduate /
Second Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
The Scottish Kennel Club
18th May 2019
Judge: Mrs Marylynne Winder (Appleside)
My thanks to the Scottish Kennel Club for giving me the opportunity to judge at this years Championship show, and the exhibitors for giving me the opportunity to go over their dogs. A special thanks to my hard working ring stewards.
Yearling - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Bath Championship Show
27th May 2019
Judge: Miss Felicity Freer (Felfree)
Many thanks to the Officers and Committee for my invitation to judge this superb breed. The weather was not on our side to start but it warmed up and made for a superb day. I have owned or shown this breed for over 20 years and found a real mixed bag today. I found the youngsters to be really pleasing which is promising for the breed. Many thanks to all the exhibitors for taking the time to show under me.
Graduate - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
The Southern Counties Canine Assocation
1st Jun 2019
Judge: Miss J Singh (Vandamere)
I was a delighted to receive the invitation to judge at this friendly and well run show The weather was glorious and there was a nice atmosphere around the ring.
I thoroughly enjoyed my day as I had some quality dogs to go over and this was reflected on the impressive results in the Group placings . I was thrilled to learn that the Best of Breed was awarded Terrier Group 1, my bitch CC winner was awarded Terrier Junior Group 2, the puppy gained Puppy Terrier Group 3 and the veteran was awarded Veteran Terrier Group 3. Is this a new record for group placings at one show for the breed?
The day was kept running smoothly by my two stewards Alan McKenzie and Sue Hann,
I was concerned about the number of exhibits with misplaced teeth. In total I found five exhibits each with a misplaced tooth, also two kinked tails and one exhibit with one testicle. Some exhibits were lacking in muscle tone and condition.
Yearling - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Placing Critique
She is balanced and has a nice overall outline. Feminine head, pleasing expression with dark eyes. She is nicely angulated, has good bone and a straight front. Her movement was sound both ways, unfortunately short of coat today.
Three Counties Championship Show
6th Jun 2019
Judge: Mr D Mitchell (Paleside)
Yearling - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Placing Critique
Red grizzle, pleasing head strong front, shorter type, moved out ok.
Windsor Championship Show
27th Jun 2019
Judge: Mrs Jena Tuck (Nettleby)
My thanks to the Society for inviting me, to my two very able stewards who kept everything moving smoothly, and to the exhibitors for giving me the privilege of going over their dogs. I was delighted by my winners, and by the overall quality of the entry.
Yearling - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
The East Anglia Border Terrier Club Open Show
17th Nov 2019
Judge: Mrs Jenny Miller (Feorlig)
I must thank the officers and committee for allowing me to judge their Club Open show which was a great honour and which I really enjoyed. The hospitality and the friendly atmosphere made for a nice show and the quality of the dogs was exceptional. I must thank the Club for the lovely gift and Jan Hollingsbee for the flowers which are still alive and looking good. I must also thank my steward Julie Green who gave up her entry to steward for me.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Placing Critique
Little separated these two very smart bitches I just like the substance and the look of maturity of my winner although there is really little difference in their ages. Very attractive on the stance and equally nice to go over, I really liked her head of otter shape, lovely well set on and used ears, giving expression to her dark round kind eyes. Nice stop and short muzzle. Proud head carriage held on strong moderate neck into well laid-back shoulders, correct span. Firm level back to croup with high set tail well held and carried. Well angulated front and hindquarters. Depth and moderate width to chest, straight balanced legs straight bone and small tight feet. Hindquarters with moderate stifle and short hocks. Well ribbed back into a body with depth and substance, well presented and conditioned harsh grizzle jacket with undercoat. Positive sound mover with good easy stride with reach and drive.
Ladies Kennel Association
14th Dec 2019
Judge: Mr Mark Lowry (Ravenside)
I would first like to thank all the exhibitors for a lovely entry, and for making the effort to travel to the N.E.C on a dark winter’s morning. There was a variation in breed type to a degree, which is always the case, but I was very happy with both my final lineups and only wish I could hand out more awards.
Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Placing Critique
grizzle and tan bitch with nice head, and dark eye, flat skull with good topline and tailset, moved well.
Southern Border Terrier Club Members Limited Show
1st Mar 2020
Judge: Tina Morgan (Blewecourt)
Thankyou to the officers and committee for the support and courtesy extended to me at this well-run breed club show. I also want to thank and congratulate Sheila Hales the show manager, David Hunt and Lyn Aldrich my stewards and Andrew Mooney for ensuring everything was in order and ran smoothly. My last thanks must go to the exhibitors for a quality entry and allowing me to go over their dogs, as well as the sporting way they accepted my decisions.
It was a great atmosphere, all the dogs and bitches displayed good temperaments, all males entire, a couple of level bites which is of course acceptable and a wide variety of types with some carrying too much condition which I couldn’t span and were heavy. Coats were at varying stages of growth and I was pleased to feel a number of good thick pelts. I judged as I saw the dogs on the day and had at the fore the essentials required for ‘essentially a working terrier’.
Graduate - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Crufts
8th Mar 2020
Judge: Mr Simon Jackson (Clipstone)
Firstly, I would like to thank the Kennel Club for allowing me the honour of judging this Border Terrier Centenary year. I also thank my excellent stewards for keeping me on track and to everybody who gave me such a fantastic entry, both in numbers and quality across all classes. To be blunt, I don't think I have ever seen and enjoyed such a very high quality entry before. Unfortunately many good exhibits went home unrewarded. Several classes the placed exhibits could have all stood in first place. I really was splitting hairs. I can honestly say that I really enjoyed myself and hope everybody else did too. I'd also like to thank Joyce Martin and my son, Laurence Jackson, for the excellent photographs which has made the writing of this critique so much easier. I understand Laurence also live-streamed the CC's and BOB – technology far above me – but thanks!
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Placing Critique
A really nice pretty feminine head, good expression, strong neck. Good topline and front correct. Nice ribs. A little deeper in loin but strong back end. Excellent coat. Good movement.
Class Critique
An absolutely amazing class – so many good bitches went unrewarded. Hard work to judge but immensely enjoyable.
Good Citizen - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Woolwich, Bexley & District Canine Association Open Show
15th Mar 2020
Judge: Dr K Suggitt
Reserve Best Of Breed
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Southern Counties Canine Association
27th Jun 2021
Judge: Mr Kevin Green (Terabyte)
I would like to thank all the Officers and Committee of the Southern Counties Canine Association for inviting me to judge their show for Border Terriers. It was my first judging appointment for a CH Show and I was very pleased with my entry also I would like to thank all the exhibitors who entered and for allowing me to go over their dogs. They all showed and behaved very well. Last but not least I would like to thank my steward who did an excellent job keeping everything flowing very well.
Graduate - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
East of England Championship Show
8th Jul 2021
Judge: Mr Ian Hopper (Esyntona)
My thanks go to the East of England committee for inviting me to judge the show. Thank you to my two stewards who efficiently helped exhibitors to follow the corvid regulations in place for the show.
For quite a lot of the younger dogs it was there first show due to the lockdown they all handled it well.
All teeth were ok a few of the dogs were just spannable there was no problem with the bitches
I was pleased with my final line ups for dogs and bitches and the main winners I feel could still carry out the work they were bred for if required.
Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Placing Critique
Nice grizzle bitch good ear set scissor bite, loose pelt coat just coming through moved ok.
The Midland Border Terrier Club Championship Show
1st Aug 2021
Judge: Mrs C Archibald (Dogs) Mrs L M Ward (Bitches) Ref Mr T Tuck
Referee’s Report:
I was asked to make the final decisions for BIS, Res BIS, BOS, and Best Veteran. It was a real pleasure to go over these quality borders.
BIS: I thought that the dog Brewster and Green’s Stowthorney Wicker Man JW, and the bitch Irving’s Dandyhow Pandora, were both eye-catching borders though quite different. The dog was very well constructed throughout, with a typical otter-like head, strong muzzle and large teeth. He had good angulation front and rear, moved well, and was in good coat. The bitch was a handy size, with an attractive outline and balanced overall proportions. She also had a thick pelt and correct coat though I think it was not yet at its best. I just favoured the dog for BIS on the strength of his head, his overall outline, and coat on the day.
Res BIS: I felt that Tuffin’s Hartswelin Veritas with Oatberry edged it over the bitch for similar reasons to those given above. He shared a lot of qualities with BIS, having a lovely outline and angulation, a good otter-like head, and an excellent coat and pelt.
BOS: Irving’s Dandyhow Pandora.
Best Veteran: Both veterans were eye-catching and typical borders, with very good coats. The dog, Jackson’s Clipstone Starshine, had a lovely head and expression, and I liked his outline and overall proportions. The bitch, Dean’s Ch Cedarhill Wish Upon a Star, had balanced proportions and she was very well constructed all through. I thought her neat front and shoulders, plus her hind angulation gave her the edge for Best Veteran.
Referee: Terence Tuck
DOGS
My sincere thanks to the MBTC for inviting me to judge the dogs at this show. Also thank you to all the exhibitors for their support. A very convivial atmosphere, it was so good to be out and about with dogs again. The weather did it's best to stay fair, ideal temperature for dog showing. I found movement still to be an issue, particularly front, also small teeth, the odd broken or missing tooth, and some dirty teeth too! Size and weight need to be addressed - some too heavy, the other end of the spectrum, needed a good feed!! Jackets at various stages, good to see some exhibits in full coat, a rarity these days. I was very happy with my winners and pleased the referee agreed in part.
BITCHES
Many thanks to the club for the invitation to judge, to the exhibitors for a nice entry and my steward Carol Smith for keeping the ring running smoothly.
As ever at this show the atmosphere was relaxed and friendly but was tinged today with poignancy by the sad loss of so many of our good friends. I must mention Dawn Bladen who has been a close friend since 1995 when we had a litter brother and sister by my dog. On principle Dawn didn’t show under me so would again have been at the ringside today with her camera. We miss them all and hope to continue to see their families and friends amongst us.
There was a noticeable diversity in both type and overall size today. My chief concern was exhibits that came very heavily to hand and often in combination with being very difficult (for a man’s hands) to span. It really needs to be addressed if we are to keep the Border “Essentially a working terrier”, as the standard lays down.
There was only one mouth with misplaced teeth and I was especially pleased to find so many otter-like heads.
Coats were generally good for texture and depth and good undercoats on thick pelts predominated. B/T jackets were especially harsh and dense and I aplaud the breeders who have achieved this huge improvement compared to the B/Ts of the 90’s.
Today tough pads were plentiful but it was a pity that feet on some exhibits appeared to be bigger and flatter than they actually were when this could be easily remedied by trimming.
Tails seem to get thinner and longer each time I judge. In this entry we have overcome the problem of kinks that was evident for some years but with the loss of the desired carroty shape and moderately short length which finishes off the typical Border outline.
Overall I was pleased to find good fitness and muscle tone plus good condition and only one that needed a good dinner and a couple that had obviously enjoyed too many.
I was very happy with my lineup and fully expect to see several going on to the higher honours which they narrowly missed out on today.
My colleague judge and I cordially agreed to disagree when it came to the final accolades (in each case having a preference for the sex we had judged) so referee Tez Tuck was kept busy to the very end with his decisions accepted with good grace by the exhibitors.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Kent County CA Open Show
22nd Aug 2021
Judge: Mrs Mandy Kenna (Cynetkoy)
Reserve Best Of Breed
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
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.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Placing Critique
Her coat was going over but she did have a nice flat skull and otter like head, shorter in rib than the winner she has a nice shoulder and good angulation so also moved out well both ways
The London & Home Counties Terrier Club Open Show
10th Oct 2021
Judge: Mr R Wright (Borderexpress)
A big thank you the committee for the invite to judge the Border Terriers today, 2nd biggest entry of the day so a big thank you also for the exhibitors on the quality of the dogs for me to go over today. Also a big thank you to the East Anglia Border Terrier Club for the sponsorship of the classes on the day.
A lovely well run show with a great atmosphere and a great ending to the show when you get to see your Best of Breed/Best Puppy go on and get Best Puppy In show. Also a big thank you to my steward Mandy Holmes for keeping the dogs coming and going in correct order.
Reserve Best Of Breed
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Best Bitch
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Placing Critique
4 Y/O Grizzle & Tan bitch with a strong head and lovely dark eye, good ear placement. In full jacket but good to go over. Moves nice from side profile and holds a good top line on the move with a nice tail set. (Best Bitch & Res Best of Breed)
The East Anglia Border Terrier Club Open Show
13th Nov 2021
Judge: Ms Julie Green (Breckgreen/Stowthorney)
Firstly, I would like to thanks the officers and committee of the East Anglia Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge my first breed club show. My steward & partner Robert Brewster for doing a sterling job as always. I would also like to thank all that entered under me with some traveling great distances. Although on the day we were a few missing due to Scottish BTC being on the same day and the report of covid cases from a show the previous week, for this I fully understand having recently recovered from Covid myself. I was happy with my winners and found no bad mouths or kinked tails on the day. Temperaments on some need to be addressed though, with a few dogs kicking off through the day. A little reminder that these dogs can be excluded from the show on instruction of the show management as in the KC Rules & Regulations. I also found a couple of dogs that were severely underweight and this was affecting their overall condition.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Crufts
11th Mar 2022
Judge: Mrs. Margaret Curtis (Matamba)
Crufts has always been a memorable experience for me, from sitting ringside to winning top honours in this breed, and to retire from judging with my last appointment being Crufts was a special occasion. Many thanks to all the exhibitors for the entry of 233 dogs making 257 entries with 28 absentees.
It was a long day and with only one steward for almost all of the classes my sincere thanks must go to Robyn Burnett. Plus a special thanks to Judy Carr for stepping in to help Robyn in those last big classes to help us finish just in time to get the BOB to the Group. Also to Joyce Martin the photographer who worked hard throughout the day to get those special pictures, thank you. I enjoyed my day judging but found some of the classes quite challenging.
I was pleased with the lineup and my principal winners, but a little disappointed with what I was finding when the dogs came to the table. The standard reads “Head like that of an otter moderately broad in skull and small ears dropping close to cheek” but some were so untypical of our breed with narrow skulls, weak jaws and small teeth, with ears that were too big and standing away from the cheek.
In every class there were some that just could not be spanned - being too deep in the chest and strong in the rib. Movement was better behind than in front. Finding dogs with a short upper arm, this not only restricts the movement but when standing almost gives a Fox Terrier type front which I was seeing, to start accepting these deviations as acceptable would be a sad day for our breed as we know it.
General condition of the dogs was good, jackets came in all stages mostly acceptable with some good thick pelts. One problem I found today was the baiting of dogs on the table. In some cases it made it hard going for dogs and judge - no need to top and tail and bait all at the same time - personally I just needed the dogs to stand still.
Limit - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Good Citizen - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
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.
Limit - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
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.
Open - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
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
Limit - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
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 - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
Bournemouth Championship Show
13th Aug 2023
Judge: Ms Tina Jones (Otterholme)
My thanks go to the committee of Bournemouth Championship Show for inviting me to award tickets for the first time, it was a very special day.
Special thanks to my stewards Gentle Lowe and Brian Aubrey for doing such a sterling job, allowing me to focus on the task in hand.
I was delighted with the entry that awaited me, a huge thank you to the exhibitors for giving me the privilege to go over their dogs, this was a real honour and the sporting way they accepted my decisions, on the whole by most exhibitors.
I was told many years ago, by someone well respected in the breed to judge with the hands, not with the eyes, never did this ring true as today. Some dogs I have admired from the ringside, didn’t live up to expectations, whilst others that hadn’t previously caught my eye, surprised me and did.
Being the daughter of a hunt terrier man I could get no better grounding in the requirements of an earth dog, these were the days long before quad bikes, terriers would be expected to be on their feet from the moment hounds drew off until close of the hunting day, working in landscapes not dissimilar to that of that hunt the breed first originated from.
l tried to look subjectively at the exhibit before me to see if they had the confirmation and condition to undertake such duties. I was surprised how quite a number were difficult to span and far too deep in chest and too wide in front and came up heavy, lacking the narrowness to go to ground, a distinct disadvantage in the working arena, legs bend, chests don’t.
I was finding rear movement was better than front, but more than a few lacked the drive that I looked for with elevated front action that indicates an upper arm that is shorter than ideal.
I look to see feet that are tight with a good thick pad so vital in an earth dog, many were lacking in this important trait.
I found temperaments superb throughout the day, dentition was questionable on several exhibits and all dogs entire.
A plea to exhibitors if you bait them on the table, that is fine if they look hypnotically at the treat, but on several occasions, owners were wrestling with their dogs trying to get at the treat, making it difficult to assess them.
I am always mindful to judge fit for function, and I was happy that my winners fitted that bill and all sporting decent jackets and pelts and meeting my interpretation of the breed standard.
I was delighted to see my BOB going on to third in the terrier group and my BP winning the terrier puppy group.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien
