Show Placings
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.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom
Litchfield CS Open Show
26th Jan 2019
Judge: Mrs Julie North (Northborders)
I would like to thank Lichfield Canine Society for inviting me to judge the Border Terriers at this lovely very well run show
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom
Placing Critique
10mth old Blue and Tan Bitch Very eye catching puppy , lovely feminine head with nice big teeth and correct mouth ,I liked her length and athletic build , she`s narrow throughout and spans easily , good angles front and back which made for a balanced look when on the move , she`s sporting a correct blue jacket which just finishes the over-all picture , I really liked her, BOB ,BPIB
West Midland Terrier Society Open Show
9th Feb 2019
Judge: Anne Speake
I would like to thank the officers and committee for their invitation to judge at the show. The hospitality received was much appreciated, and the day was one I really enjoyed. It was lovely to see such a good entry for the show as a whole, my thanks to my two capable stewards, who kept things moving along nicely. Thanks also to the exhibitors who did me the honour and privilege of going over their dogs and accepting my decisions in a sporting manner. All exhibits were of good quality and fit for purpose. As to be expected at this time of year, coats were at various stages. I was delighted with my entry.
Junior - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom
The Midland Border Terrier Club Open Show
10th Feb 2019
Judge: Mrs Margaret Davies (Glenorchy)
I would firstly like to thank the Club for giving me the opportunity to judge their February Open Show, which I thoroughly enjoyed. Also thank you to my very efficient stewards Julie Price ad Jem Thomas and by no means least my grateful thanks to all the exhibitors for a super entry.
A few exhibits were wide in front, one or two I couldn't span, movement left a lot to be desired and some could have done with a little more tidying up.
Best Puppy - Bitch
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom
Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom
Placing Critique
lovely blue and tan who is so aptly named. Bloom she did. She has a lovely head, good bite, well laid shoulder and excellent topline and tail set which she retained on the move Good hindquarters which she used to her advantage. Best blue and tan.
Novice - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom
Placing Critique
1st in puppy class.
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.
Puppy - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom
Placing Critique
Attractive blue, good head and expression, well balanced and OK for bone, nice length and rib, moving out well.
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.
RBCC
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom
Junior - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom
Placing Critique
RBCC. It really was a close decision between these two. b/t This bitch oozed quality and type. Strode out and moved really well both ways. Shown in harsh coat, thick pelt and easily spanned. Slightly bigger than first, but so much to like. Another superb bitch who I will follow closely.
Crewe and District Canine Association Open Show
2nd Jun 2019
Judge: Valerie Mann (Lynsett)
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom
Three Counties Championship Show
6th Jun 2019
Judge: Mr D Mitchell (Paleside)
Yearling - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom
Placing Critique
Blue bitch, nice head, dark eye, in good over all shape, spanable nice length of rib coat, could have been better, took a while to settle on the move
The Southern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
8th Jun 2019
Judge: Mrs Jayne Gillam (Orenberg)
Many thanks to the Southern Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge at their Championship show, it was an interesting day going over the dogs and I thank the exhibitors for their good sized entry and the sporting way in which they accepted my decisions. Thanks must also go to my excellent stewards, Tina Morgan and Felicity Freer who kept me on track and everything running smoothly throughout the day.
Coats were at varying stages of growth and there was a wide variety of types, and a few with heavy shoulders and short, round oversprung ribs and poor toplines. I was quite surprised to see some faults in the entry which I wasn’t expecting, I found a young male with only one testicle descended, three with teeth out of line, one whose mouth didn’t close correctly and two kinked tails.
I judged the entry as I saw the dogs on the day, and as always I was looking for a dog which excels in breed type, fits the standard and appears capable of doing a day’s work. I value all the essentials required in a working dog and also those who have that extra something as a show dog. I was pleased with my winners and look forward to watching show careers with interest.
Yearling - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom
Placing Critique
B&T, very shapely bitch with a rock solid topline and tailset and long stride, looks a picture in profile as she went around the ring, she is big enough but handles well, is good in the shoulder and a super rib which is easy to span. I liked her well turned, racy hindquarters and well let down hocks, which she uses to advantage. Well presented in good jacket.
Cheshire County Show
18th Jun 2019
Judge: John Scanlan (Pantycelyn)
Post Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom
Blackpool & District Canine Society
23rd Jun 2019
Judge: Mr S A Mcpherson
My thanks go to Blackpool & District Canine Society for the invitation to judge their show, my very efficient stewards and to the exhibitors for their wonderful entry, topping the Terrier Group by quite a margin!
It was a good quality entry, all the way through, especially in the younger classes, Junior bitch being quite exceptional, which bodes well, for the future!
I thought the line ups, for the CCs, were excellent, all, for me, fitting the Standard well, good for size, lithe bodied, easily spanned and with a good length of stride.
Only a very few were difficult to span.
As for points of concern, a number with very deep stops, often with a rounder eye, which gives a rather untypical expression, more reminiscent of the Asian short clawed Otter, rather than the English River Otter.
Forehand construction, as ever, is the main area for concern, correct shoulder and upper arm being the most difficult thing to breed for and attain. A correct forehand is a joy to watch, on the move, especially if they have the rear angulation to match, giving totally balanced, efficient, ground covering movement, but get it wrong and the movement is a bit like a “ bike with square wheels! “ in profile! I’m well aware it’s possible to win, at the highest levels, with the latter, but it doesn’t make it correct, when the Standard asks for the soundness to follow a horse, which, obviously, would require a good length of stride.
A few dogs weren’t too keen on the bandage on my hand, covering up the aftermath of an unfortunate trip up, on gravel, none were unduly penalised.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom
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 /
First Place
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom
Placing Critique
Blue and tan, well balanced quality bitch, well set on tail. She handled well, good front, with correctly angulated shoulders going into a level topline. She has a strong loin, was very easy to span, and she moved well.
The Northern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
13th Jul 2019
Judge: Mrs Laura Illingworth (Thorneyhurst)
A big thanks to The Northern Border Terrier Club for there invitation to judge their club show, my first club open show was for the Northern many years ago, and the friendliness and hospitality has not changed. Thank you to the exhibitors for such a good entry and great atmosphere around the ring, and most especially to my two capable stewards Carolyn and Graham Richardson for keeping every thing flowing, and not putting a foot wrong all day. The quality of exhibits was second to none and many good dogs had to go home without a card, teeth were excellent and not one kinked tail or missing testicle all day, nice to see so many of the borders looked capable of doing a days work.
Yearling - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom
Placing Critique
Tall racy bitch with nice outline, comes to hand easily correct shoulders and nice stifle shown in good coat
Leeds Championship Dog Show
26th Jul 2019
Judge: Mr T Tuck (Nettleby)
Thanks to all exhibitors for providing a really good entry, and thanks also to my calm and efficient steward for helping to make this a thoroughly enjoyable appointment. The heatwave temperature had thankfully dropped and the covered half of the ring provided very comfortable conditions.
I was thrilled with my final line up in dogs and bitches. In particular, I thought the Reserve CC and CC winners were very typical, high quality and honest all round border terriers. It is always very exciting and satisfying to see borders of such a high calibre at the top end of the range.
It is difficult to make generalisations, as strengths and weaknesses varied considerably across the total entry. I found numerous decent, moderately broad heads, some of which had the classic otter-like appearance, strong muzzle and keen expression. Overall size and correct balanced proportions seemed reasonably consistent, and I don’t recall any of the well over-sized and coarser types that one sometimes encounters. I thought hind quarters were good overall, though straight fronts and well laid shoulders were less common. Coats varied, as they always do, though I would have liked to find a few more that combined the really harsh topcoat, good undercoat, and thick pelt. Was this just due to the state of individual coats on the day, or is the weatherproof coat and jacket receiving less attention?
Any of the above observations are, of course, based on the entry on the day and are not necessarily a pronouncement on the breed as a whole!
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom
Placing Critique
A beautiful bitch with an eye-catching outline, including an excellent topline and strong, well angulated hindquarters. Nice head, neck, and overall conformation. Looked really good on the move and covered the ground well.
Leek & DSS Open Show
27th Jul 2019
Judge: Mrs C E Sansom (Tarkaswell)
I would like to thank the Leek and District Show Society for inviting me to judge at their traditional agricultural show. Thanks also to my very efficient steward Sharon Bowers and to the exhibitors who gave me such a lovely entry and the honour of going over their dogs. Coats and pelts were generally good, but front movement was variable and I did find some exhibits with incorrect dentition.
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom
Post Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom
Placing Critique
This quality blue and tan bitch stood out for her balanced, effortless movement, showing purpose and drive whilst maintaining a level topline. She had a feminine head with a dark eye, varminty expression and correct bite. Her reach of neck flowed into a deep, narrow body of moderate length, with ribs carried well back. Her loin was strong and tail well set and carried gaily on the move. Correctly angulated in front and behind, she was able to cover the ground with ease. Excellent double coat, with a thick, loose pelt. She showed with presence and confidence. Pleased to award her BOB.
The Midland Border Terrier Club Championship Show
4th Aug 2019
Judge: Dogs: Diane Bullen (Fevstone) Bitches: Sally Leslie (Risdene)
*Judge: Dogs: Diane Bullen (Fevstone)*
I would like to thank the Midland Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge their show and making me feel most welcome. I would also like to thank my Stewards for a sterling job.
A good exhibit entry on the day with couple of them forgetting to remove their carpet slippers judging by their feet, and also a couple that I felt they were impersonating Austin Powers international man of mystery judging by the amount of chest hair left on! But on a more serious note, yet again underweight dogs with some having barely a covering of flesh which was disappointing, some dogs also un-spannable.
Both of the above reflecting in my placing’s. On a more positive note some excellent specimens shown today both in coat, movement and good old fashioned strong otter type heads.
*Judge: Bitches: Sally Leslie (Risdene)*
Thank you to the Committee and Exhibitors for a super day. It must always be a pleasure and honour to judge at a club show where the depth of quality is clearly high and this was especially appreciated after so many had also made the long journey to Devon the day before.
I’m not going to lecture. After all we are all on the same side and want our breed to thrive. However I think I should mention that movement is not generally true and accurate fore and aft. I did see some strange limb and joint placement. Notwithstanding less than perfect gait I still sought something that did not make me uncomfortable to watch and importantly for me exhibited easy freedom using the whole of the foot and leg assembly to take energy from the ground not jolting or with feet flipping limply but fluid placement with reach and drive. That does not imply exaggeration and wasted energy just simple low to the ground daisy cutting propulsion and economy which is a thing of beauty to behold.
Mouths and jaws generally were pleasing. The small pearly dentition of a while ago were not in evidence and I enjoyed the large teeth that never fail to surprise and please. For this reason I have not felt the need to remark individually.
I never penalise stacked exhibits but I Ioved the preponderance of handler’s free showing. Relaxed, well made examples do stand nicely naturally and it often seems to me that exhibitors know less than their charges when it comes to limb placement and balance.
Coats - I really appreciated those exhibitors who felt able to leave coats in place even though a little past their sell by date. I can happily judge through a good coat which enables me to ascertain texture and quality whereas however neat an outline the lack of any evidence of coat in this working breed must be a negative.
Happily my fellow judge and I agreed on most of the main placings and I did not trouble the Referee as for me the prime consideration for any exhibitor must surely be the CC.
RBCC
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom
Yearling - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom
Placing Critique
a very engaging and true Border, shapely and well made all through from pleasing length of neck and well laid shoulder to strong quarters, flawlessly presented, lovely skull and foreface, could be a tad neater in ear but does not spoil her typical expression, good bone, spannable, moves like she should in profile from such correct construction RCC
Class Critique
Strong class with high quality exhibits filling the places and beyond unfortunately for some that sadly went cardless
Bournemouth Championship Show
10th Aug 2019
Judge: Mr Alan Small
It was a bit blustery to say the least down at Pikes Farm, with high winds throughout the day. A good crowd round the ring and a pleasant atmosphere prevailed. It was nice to see so many old friends.
Thanks to Officers & Committee of Bournemouth C.A. For the invite, to my Stewards for looking after the Ring & to the exhibitors for such a lovely entry. I enjoyed your Border Terries, thanks for coming.
Graduate - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom
Placing Critique
b/t bitch, good in head with correct bite, good front, spanable body with ribs back, good quarters with hard muscle tone, in lovely condition, moved & handled well.
Welsh Kennel Club
17th Aug 2019
Judge: Miss T Peacock
I was honoured to be invited to judge the Welsh Kennel Cub Ch. Show. The entry was excellent both in quality and quantity, It was a pleasure to go over such quality exhibits. Movement was variable and some exhibits moved okay coming an going but lacked drive.
Junior - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom
Darlington Championship Show
14th Sep 2019
Judge: Mr M. Hollingsbee (Otterwood)
I would like to thank my stewards Lesley and Peter Armstrong-Rodgers for the excellent way they controlled the ring in a peaceful and confident way ensuring a good natured atmosphere to reign.
The exhibitors also deserve thanks for entering and accepting my decisions in a sporting way and spectators applauding each class in turn.
The quality of the majority of the exhibits was good but some of them had suspect front movement which seems to be common in certain Borders.
Yearling - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom
Placing Critique
blue and tan, very good profile outline, balanced bitch, level top line, moved with confidence round the ring. Pleased to hear later that this win gave her a Junior Warrant (subject to KC confirmation).
Driffield Championship Show
21st Sep 2019
Judge: Mr David Shields (Wilholme)
Post Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom
Placing Critique
Stand out winner of the class. Quality bitch who is so well made throughout and another who just flows from head to tail and handles so well on going over her. Lovely feminine head, good strength and neat well set ears. Best of fronts, excellent reach of neck and a good layback of shoulder. Firm topline that she holds on the move and strong well muscled hindquarters. Put down to perfection on the day and such a sound positive mover.
Yorkshire, Lancashire & Cheshire Border Terrier Club Championship Show
22nd Sep 2019
Judge: Mr A Horner (Stineval)
May I take the opportunity to thank the Club and its members for inviting me to judge at this show, and for the super warm hospitality I received. Special thanks to my ring stewards Carolyn Richardson and Julie North, for being efficient and keeping me on track.
I found no bad mouths and as always in our breed, coats at various stages. Lots of spannable dogs and bitches which I like.
I would like to say a huge thank you to the exhibitors for giving me the opportunity to go over their dogs, this was a real honour and I thoroughly enjoyed my day.
RBCC
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom
Post Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom
Placing Critique
(B/t) moved well both ways. Has a nice head good reach of neck and a well put together front, good topline and tail set, shown in harsh coat with plenty of ticking, thick pelt and easily spanned. Showed well for her handler. RBCC
Midland Counties Championship Show
24th Oct 2019
Judge: Mr Stuart Plane
Yearling - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom
Placing Critique
A B/T of style and shape she has an attractive head good over the neck and shoulder maybe slightly longer than the winner but holds herself well on the move, in super coat.
The Midland Border Terrier Club Open Show
3rd Nov 2019
Judge: Ms Judith Fawcett (Carrock)
I would like to thank the Midland Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge this my second breed club show. Thank you to the committee for their kind hospitality and the lovely gift I received at the end of the day. My two stewards, Sharon Pickering & Beverley Barber, kept things moving along nicely – thank you. I was delighted with the entry – thank you to everyone for giving me the opportunity of going over your dogs and for the sporting manner in which my decisions were accepted. As expected coats were at various stages – some were good, some going over and a couple of exhibits were freshly pulled out. All dogs were entire and there were no kinked tails. There were one or two untidy and a couple of level mouths. I had one main concern on the day – size. There were some exhibits who were just too big to span and weighed heavy and this was reflected in their placings. I thoroughly enjoyed my day and was delighted with my main winners - I had some good quality dogs to judge.
Reserve Best In Show
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom JW
Best Opposite Sex
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom JW
Best Bitch
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom JW
Post Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom JW
Placing Critique
rangy bitch with lovely feminine head, keen expression, neat ears & good mouth. Lovely pelt and jacket. Well laid shoulders and ribs well back – strong loin. Good top line and tail set. Sound on the move – strode out well around the ring with purpose and drive. Shown in fit, hard condition. BB & RBIS.
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Championship Show
9th Nov 2019
Judge: Mrs J Johnson (Ratcheugh)
Firstly my thanks to the Scottish Border Terrier Club for giving me the opportunities to judge their Championship show, the committee for their hospitality and my stewards for keeping me on track. My thanks also to Joyce Martin for giving me memories of the day.
Secondly my appreciation to all exhibitors some who had travelled many miles on a very cold and frosty morning, it was a privilege to go over your dogs and thank you for accepting my decisions.
I was extremely pleased with my main winners, it’s very pleasing to have a class of borders and find one which ticks all your boxes.
Some puppies were in my opinion are too big and some I found difficult to span. I also prefer if handlers allowed the puppy to walk loosely and not strung up, this throws the front movement.
Yearling - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom JW
Placing Critique
nicely balanced bitch with no exaggerations pleasing head and expression, good reach of neck, narrow throughout, easily spanned, level topline, correct carrot tail well set on, moved well.
Yorkshire, Lancashire & Cheshire Border Terrier Club Open Show
25th Jan 2020
Judge: Ms. Suzanne Coldham (Annesuz)
I would like to thank the Officers and Committee for their very warm welcome and hospitality, and the exhibitors for their entries and generous applause for the winners. There was a fabulous atmosphere throughout the day which made it a real pleasure.
Having last had my hands on the breed at this level in October 2017 I am concerned about just how narrow some of the dogs are. Whilst the breed standard calls for the body to be ‘deep, narrow, and fairly long’ it should not be taken to the point of exaggeration. That being said my winners are very pleasing, well balanced specimens without recourse to any exaggeration and in my opinion fit for the original purpose of a Border Terrier.
Best Bitch
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom JW
Best In Show
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom JW
Limit - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom JW
Placing Critique
What can I say about this stunning blue and tan who just took the ring immediately she entered it. Going over her was an absolute pleasure. Typical head with no exaggeration, super correct front, small tight feet, correct shoulder angulation and placement, good rib easily spanned and carried well back. Correct hind angulation giving her drive. She could not stand wrongly if she tried. Moved round the ring so soundly and owning every inch of it. Just beautiful. Today she could not be denied – Best Bitch and a truly worthy Best in Show. Congratulations.
The Midland Border Terrier Club Open Show
9th Feb 2020
Judge: Mrs. Carolyn Richardson (Staynorwood)
I would like to thank Midland Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge and to thank my Stewards Pete Armstrong and Sue Baxter. Unfortunately, the entry was somewhat reduced due to the awful storm conditions keeping many at home, but I was pleased with the quaity of dogs present for me to go over and very happy with my winners.
Limit - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom JW
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!
Yearling - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom JW
Class Critique
Another very high quality class.
Royal Cheshire County Show
21st Jun 2021
Judge: Mr Ian Hardman
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom JW
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom JW
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.
Open - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom JW
Leeds Championship Show
25th Jul 2021
Judge: Mr Neil Straw (Shaolin)
Thank you to the Officer’s and Committee for their invitation to judge at their show and congratulate Liz Stannard and her hard working team for putting on the well organised show. Thank you to the exhibitors for a lovely entry and your support on the day with only 10 being absent. Temperaments throughout were excellent as you would expect, front movement is still an issue but I felt that some bitches were a tab up on size. All were well presented.
Limit - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom JW
The Midland Border Terrier Club Championship Show
1st Aug 2021
Judge: Mrs C Archibald (Dogs) Mrs L M Ward (Bitches) Ref Mr T Tuck
Referee’s Report:
I was asked to make the final decisions for BIS, Res BIS, BOS, and Best Veteran. It was a real pleasure to go over these quality borders.
BIS: I thought that the dog Brewster and Green’s Stowthorney Wicker Man JW, and the bitch Irving’s Dandyhow Pandora, were both eye-catching borders though quite different. The dog was very well constructed throughout, with a typical otter-like head, strong muzzle and large teeth. He had good angulation front and rear, moved well, and was in good coat. The bitch was a handy size, with an attractive outline and balanced overall proportions. She also had a thick pelt and correct coat though I think it was not yet at its best. I just favoured the dog for BIS on the strength of his head, his overall outline, and coat on the day.
Res BIS: I felt that Tuffin’s Hartswelin Veritas with Oatberry edged it over the bitch for similar reasons to those given above. He shared a lot of qualities with BIS, having a lovely outline and angulation, a good otter-like head, and an excellent coat and pelt.
BOS: Irving’s Dandyhow Pandora.
Best Veteran: Both veterans were eye-catching and typical borders, with very good coats. The dog, Jackson’s Clipstone Starshine, had a lovely head and expression, and I liked his outline and overall proportions. The bitch, Dean’s Ch Cedarhill Wish Upon a Star, had balanced proportions and she was very well constructed all through. I thought her neat front and shoulders, plus her hind angulation gave her the edge for Best Veteran.
Referee: Terence Tuck
DOGS
My sincere thanks to the MBTC for inviting me to judge the dogs at this show. Also thank you to all the exhibitors for their support. A very convivial atmosphere, it was so good to be out and about with dogs again. The weather did it's best to stay fair, ideal temperature for dog showing. I found movement still to be an issue, particularly front, also small teeth, the odd broken or missing tooth, and some dirty teeth too! Size and weight need to be addressed - some too heavy, the other end of the spectrum, needed a good feed!! Jackets at various stages, good to see some exhibits in full coat, a rarity these days. I was very happy with my winners and pleased the referee agreed in part.
BITCHES
Many thanks to the club for the invitation to judge, to the exhibitors for a nice entry and my steward Carol Smith for keeping the ring running smoothly.
As ever at this show the atmosphere was relaxed and friendly but was tinged today with poignancy by the sad loss of so many of our good friends. I must mention Dawn Bladen who has been a close friend since 1995 when we had a litter brother and sister by my dog. On principle Dawn didn’t show under me so would again have been at the ringside today with her camera. We miss them all and hope to continue to see their families and friends amongst us.
There was a noticeable diversity in both type and overall size today. My chief concern was exhibits that came very heavily to hand and often in combination with being very difficult (for a man’s hands) to span. It really needs to be addressed if we are to keep the Border “Essentially a working terrier”, as the standard lays down.
There was only one mouth with misplaced teeth and I was especially pleased to find so many otter-like heads.
Coats were generally good for texture and depth and good undercoats on thick pelts predominated. B/T jackets were especially harsh and dense and I aplaud the breeders who have achieved this huge improvement compared to the B/Ts of the 90’s.
Today tough pads were plentiful but it was a pity that feet on some exhibits appeared to be bigger and flatter than they actually were when this could be easily remedied by trimming.
Tails seem to get thinner and longer each time I judge. In this entry we have overcome the problem of kinks that was evident for some years but with the loss of the desired carroty shape and moderately short length which finishes off the typical Border outline.
Overall I was pleased to find good fitness and muscle tone plus good condition and only one that needed a good dinner and a couple that had obviously enjoyed too many.
I was very happy with my lineup and fully expect to see several going on to the higher honours which they narrowly missed out on today.
My colleague judge and I cordially agreed to disagree when it came to the final accolades (in each case having a preference for the sex we had judged) so referee Tez Tuck was kept busy to the very end with his decisions accepted with good grace by the exhibitors.
Limit - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom JW
Driffield Championship Dog Show
28th Aug 2021
Judge: Mrs Linda Coleman (Hartswelin)
I was extremely pleased with my quality entry on this my first occasion awarding C.C.'s in the breed and thrilled to see my B.O.B. go 2nd in the group.
I will not mention teeth and bites in my individual critiques as apart from three which were level all exhibits possessed good strong teeth with excellent bites.Very few animals were difficult to span but far too many bitches in the later classes carried too much condition!
As in many other judges comments over the last few years fronts are still a big problem, if a Border does not have a correctly angled upper arm and shoulder it will not be able to follow a horse all day however well angled the hindquarters might be. A lot of dogs feet were not as small and tight as I would like but this may be due to lack of suitable excercise over the extended lockdowns. On the plus side nearly all were presented in double coat.
It was a very tight decision for me for B.O.B. and it could have gone either way but a choice had to be made so the dog won on being more an ideal size.
BCC
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom JW
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom JW
Placing Critique
Blue so all of a piece with matching correct angles fore and aft. Lovely balanced feminine head. A tad taller than the rest of the bitches but this did not detract from her balance. Really covered the ground and looked as if she could go all day, such a happy spirited girl pleased to award her her first C.C.
The East Anglia Border Terrier Club Championship Show
29th Aug 2021
Judge: Mrs Janet Lee (Tythrop)
My thanks to the Officers & Committee for inviting me to judge their show , & for the excellent ring stewards Mr Brewster & Mrs Armstrong who made the day run smoothly & kept me going with refreshments ! I enjoyed being with fellow BT fanciers & their dogs , as I always do .
I had a very good entry come forward & after such a long time away from the ring , a few were ring rusty & some youngsters were a little overawed , which I considered quite acceptable given so many had missed out on their early education & socialisation & tried to give them opportunity to shine , though a few very nice dogs could have been higher placed but the occasion was too much for them .
I found very good examples , but also had some whose construction fell a little short of the standard …….deep unspannable bodies or brisket below elbow standing or on the move on much shorter than their depth legs , forward placed & too little angulation in their fronts due to upright shoulders & short steep upper arms which shorten their strides or make them goosestep , & flat croups with extra high set tails carried like hound sterns ,or conversely short steep croups with low tailsets , often thin & long tails too & some poor downhill or lumpy/hinged toplines became apparent in profile movement , however the most common thing that struck me was how many have too little bone in pasterns & east-west feet when our standard calls for straight legs & good tight feet . As I lift every dog to see how their fronts ‘’drop’’ into place I found lack of bone through pasterns into feet was a common fault today & so some had feet not facing forward naturally . Most came in good condition , but a few were too thin & their pelvic bones were sticking up & they felt shelly with no depth of loin so their rears lacked muscle accordingly , conversely a handful had indulged during lockdown a little too much ! Coats were as ever , mixed , but the top winners all came in very good order with double coats .
Open - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom JW
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.
Open - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom JW
Placing Critique
Very good-looking, example I have written about before and do not have any reason to change my opinion. I quite thought she would be my reserve CC winner as she really is a class act but the excellent veteran spoilt the party
The Midland Border Terrier Club 2020 Championship Show
24th Sep 2021
Judge: (Dogs) Anne Gregory (Remony) (Bitches) Liz Wright (Totherend)
DOGS:
A most enjoyable day judging dogs at this show and I would like to thank the Club for inviting me to do so. Thanks also to my two stewards, John and John, who kept things moving along in a professional and efficient manner. Thanks also to the exhibitors for their support and allowing me the privilege of going over their dogs.
Mouths, on the whole, were good and I found only one suspect mouth. There were plenty of typical otter heads but evidence also of stops that were too deep and muzzles that were too short, which is not typical of an otter head.
Movement in some dogs was less than desirable with a few crossing in front, toeing in or flicking wrists. Rear movement was somewhat better but side movement showed some dogs short stepping. I also found some flat, slack feet and loose pasterns, which could well have been improved with proper exercise, and some feet could have been tidied up to better effect.
Generally coats and pelts were harsh and thick but, in some classes, lack of coat was the deciding factor in final placements.
My main concern today was size and weight. Some dogs were very difficult to span, were too heavy and did not come to hand well. This must be addressed to ensure Borders remain fit for the purpose they were intended.
I was pleased with my final line-up and my co judge and I whole heartedly agreed when it came to the final awards.
BITCHES:
My thanks to the Midland Border Terrier Club for offering this my first judging appointment at championship level. I had a really enjoyable day and must thank exhibitors for their wonderful entry and allowing me the opportunity to go over their dogs. Huge thanks also to my two stewards, John & John, who kept everything running smoothly.
I was really pleased with the quality of exhibits, unfortunately this meant some good dogs went unplaced.
Coats were at various stages, all acceptable, but I personally prefer more than less. Some of the exhibits would have benefitted from a tidy up, especially feet. Front movement could have been better, a few upright shoulders and over-angulated rear ends. Overall size was OK, but a few were over weight which made them unspannable.
Really pleased with my final line up and final awards.
Open - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom JW
National Dog Show
24th Sep 2021
Judge: Mrs Wendy Mooney (Chesterton)
Thank you to the committee of Birmingham Dog Show Society for inviting me to judge Border Terriers at their show. Many thanks to all the exhibitors who entered and gave me the honour and pleasure of judging their dogs. I had a fabulous entry and was truly spoilt for choice in many of the classes. One general observation is that there were quite a number of dogs that were, in my opinion, simply too big to do the job that they are bred to do.
Open - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom JW
The Yorkshire, Lancashire and Cheshire Border Terrier Club Championship Show
26th Sep 2021
Judge: Mrs D Bullen (Fevstone)
I would like to thank the officers and committee for the hard work and smooth running of the show. I would also like to thank my two stewards for doing an excellent job. The exhibitors seemed to enjoy the show judging by the popularity of my top honours. Unlike one particular exhibitor who needed his teddy putting back in his cot judging by his unsporting behaviour. 4 were found to be unspannable with a couple of bad mouths, also some were far to thin, which is unacceptable and one or two could have smelled a little sweeter. It's all well and good getting dressed up, you are letting your dogs down if they pong.
BCC
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom JW
Best In Show
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom JW
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom JW
Placing Critique
A beautiful bitch, feminine through and through, lithe, athletic, extremely narrow throughout. The best of rib carriage. Covered the ground effortlessly and could definitely go all day behind a horse.
The Northern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
9th Oct 2021
Judge: Mr Jimmy Gilpin (Otterbobs)
I feel honoured to have been elected by the members to have judged their clubs 75 year show, and can I thank Alan and Graham for keeping things running so smoothly for me, and can I especially thank the committee for lunch that they provided and also Mr J Whalton for looking after me and my wife, I am not going to rant on about this and that but where have all the heads and tail sets gone ?
BCC
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom JW
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom JW
Placing Critique
Excellent B/T shown in excellent condition today, very feminine head, with bright eyes and alert expression, good reach of neck and clean well laid shoulders, good front, bone just right, out standing in top line and tail set high, good angulation which made her move with ease. CC & R.B.I.S.
The Border Terrier Club Championship Show
17th Oct 2021
Judge: Mrs Nancy Hogg (Raeburnfoot)
It was an honour to judge my favourite show. Many thanks must go to all who made it run so smoothly. Special thanks go to Janice Johnson and Judy Carr for their stewarding. So helpful.
Had some lovely dogs to go over. Temperaments were good. Just a couple of grumbles. A few shown with no coat and placings reflected this. Bites were good. Some teeth larger than others. Front movement in particular let some down. I did find more than a few which were difficult to span. Needs watching.
Open - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Alcumlow Bloom JW
Class Critique
plus 1 WD
Boston & District Canine Society Championship Show
9th Jan 2022
Judge: Professor A S Milton (Baillieswells)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: CH Alcumlow Bloom JW
BCC
Name at show: CH Alcumlow Bloom JW
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: CH Alcumlow Bloom JW
Manchester Championship Show
20th Jan 2022
Judge: Mr Stuart Plane
What a weekend it proved to be for Border Terriers
Open - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: CH Alcumlow Bloom JW
The Midland Border Terrier Club Open Show
6th Feb 2022
Judge: Mr Peter Armstrong (Atron)
Many sincere thanks to the Officers and Committee of the Midland Border Terrier Club for the kind invitation to judge at this Show, It really seemed to be a success judging by the happy atmosphere in the venue and congratulations must go to all the hard working Committee for the superb organization on the day despite the Covid regulations and the inclement weather. My thanks must also go to my two efficient stewards, Mr. Richard Wright and Mrs. Joyce Whiting, for their invaluable assistance in keeping the ring running smoothly and keeping me in check.
Best Bitch
Name at show: CH Alcumlow Bloom JW
Best In Show
Name at show: CH Alcumlow Bloom JW
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: CH Alcumlow Bloom JW
Placing Critique
Excellent Blue & Tan, a real extrovert in the ring. Possesses a very feminine head, kind eye, alert expression and good finish to muzzle. Good reach of neck set into well laid shoulders. Good front construction. Superb topline maintained on the move and well set on tail. Good angulation front & rear. Shown and presented in superb condition. When asked moved effortlessly around the ring with ease in complete harmony with her handler. BEST BITCH and subsequently BEST IN SHOW. Well done !
Liverpool Terrier Club Open Show
20th Feb 2022
Judge: Mrs Julie North (Northborders)
I would like the Committee for the invite to judge the Border Terriers, my first appointment back after the Covid break, I thoroughly enjoyed myself too
I thank the exhibitors for my entry and allowing me to go over their lovely dogs , a shame a few were missing but the weather had not been kind
Open /
Second Place
Name at show: CH Alcumlow Bloom JW
Placing Critique
A beautiful Blue and Tan , she is an extremely athletic girl that was so on her toes today , lovely head with great expression lovely big teeth and correct bite, great front and good balanced angles, well set on tail , easily spanned, narrow throughout, just wish she was wearing her jacket to finish the picture
Leeds Championship Dog Show
22nd Jul 2022
Judge: Mrs J Fawcett (Carrock)
My thanks to the Leeds City & District Canine Association for their kind invitation to judge their Championship show, enabling me to award my first set of Challenge Certificates. Thank you also to my two stewards, Mags & Bob, who kept the ring running smoothly throughout the day which meant we managed to finish by 3pm before the rain came. My biggest thanks go to all the exhibitors for giving me the opportunity to go over their dogs and for the sporting manner in which my decisions were accepted – I had a fantastic entry for a show taking place on a Friday and in the holiday season – I was absolutely delighted.
Just a comment about the ring – the rather large metal tent fixings that took up quite a lot of the ring were a bit of a hazard. However, I believe we managed to work around them well and I was able to see the movement of all the exhibits.
As you would expect, coats were at various stages but on the whole most were acceptable. All dogs were entire, there were no kinked tails and just one or two untidy mouths. When I last judged in November 2019 my main concern was size and this still remains an issue - I was unable to span quite a number of both dogs & bitches on the day and this was reflected in my decisions. Poor front angulation also seems to be an issue – a number of upright shoulders and a lot of very wayward front legs. I thought it also relevant to mention the number of long, thin muzzles, particularly in the younger classes, that seem to be creeping into the breed - Border Terriers should have short, strong muzzles.
That all said, I had some quality dogs to judge – I thoroughly enjoyed my day.
Open - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: CH Alcumlow Bloom JW
Class Critique
This was a very difficult class to judge!
City of Birmingham Championship Show
3rd Sep 2022
Judge: Mrs K Newsome (Kighills)
I would like to thank the City of Birmingham committee for inviting me to judge the Border terriers today. It was a most enjoyable day and to top it off I had some quality dogs and bitches to go over. I would also like to thank the exhibitors for their entries and excepting my decisions.
The quality of borders were good and adhered to the breed standard. All mouths were good and all the dogs were entire. Heads on the whole were very good but some lacked a strong broad muzzle. The movement was good and many moved with drive. Many coats were harsh and thick and pelts were nice and loose. I would like to see some exhibitors pay a little attention to trimming the feet and nails.
It would also benefit a few exhibitors to take their young dogs to ring-craft more to socialise them. This would get them use to unfamiliar situations i.e. hands on the dog etc.
To my surprise my main winners Best Puppy Dog, 2nd Grad Bitch, Bitch CC & Bitch RCC were all related to the Glebeheath Kennels so well done to you.
Open - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: CH Alcumlow Bloom JW
Darlington Championship Dog Show
17th Sep 2022
Judge: Miss Tracey Peacock (Ragatam)
Firstly, I would like to thank the committee for their invitation to judge Border Terriers. Huge thanks to my two efficient stewards Laura Jordan-Smith and Julie North who kept me on track and finally the exhibitors for a super entry. Movement in general was better at the rear than in front as there were too many swinging fronts, wide movement and toeing in. There was a good selection of quality dogs and bitches for me to choose from and I thoroughly enjoyed my day.
Open - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: CH Alcumlow Bloom JW
Ladies Kennel Association
11th Dec 2022
Judge: Mr John Bainbridge (Risdene)
A very promising entry on paper but unfortunately the weather took its toll !
However I was more than happy with my main winners all were typical of what I look for in a Border Terrier and the proof that careful breeding pays off was demonstrated by the very promising progeny found amongst the youngsters.
As is my approach to critiques, generally the winners in most respects all meet the standard which calls for a working terrier with an otter like head on reasonable length neck set into well laid shoulders, a moderate length body, well ribbed back, strong shortish loin, racy but moderate rear angulation allowing the dog to move with drive, in harsh double coat and with thick pelt. I do not therefore repeat this for each individual dog but I have highlighted the dog’s best points and the reasons for their placings .
BCC
Name at show: CH Alcumlow Bloom JW
Placing Critique
Good size blue and tan so well made, shown in good coat and condition and full of herself today which made her rather exuberant on the move but she could not disguise her sound movement.
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: CH Alcumlow Bloom JW
Placing Critique
Preferred her head and expression to 2 and presented in good coat and condition.
Boston & District Canine Society
8th Jan 2023
Judge: Tracy Butler (Ycart)
Firstly I would like to thank the officers and committee for inviting me to judge there well run show,also many thanks must go to my very capable stewards on an excellent job in keeping the ring running smoothly.
The biggest thanks must go the exhibitors for there entries,and there sportsmanship on my decisions.
In my opinon,my findings where as follows,the standard asks for “essencially a working terrier”,this is a statement that is very close to my heart.
Unfortunatley some do not fit this,short upperarms are still very present,restricting reach in movement.Some dogs would benefit from less food and more exercise.
Muscle tone varied greatly,some dogs lacking,these dogs are bred to do a job.
With the rising costs of entries,some exhibits would benefit greatly from a good tidy up and the mud removed from there under bellies.
I was pleased with my overall winners,some nice quality exhibits.
Open - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: CH Alcumlow Bloom JW
The Midland Border Terrier Club Open Show
5th Feb 2023
Judge: Roger Mann (Lynsett)
My thanks go to the committee of Midland Border Terrier Club for their invitation to judge the February Open show. I had some lovely dogs to judge & would like to thank the exhibitors for their entries. I thoroughly enjoyed my day.
Reserve Best Bitch
Name at show: CH Alcumlow Bloom JW
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: CH Alcumlow Bloom JW
Placing Critique
4 yr old with a lovely feminine head. Strength of muzzle, correct width of skull & neat well set ears. Good reach of neck leads to level topline & well set tail. Ribs reach well back to short loin. Narrow all through with a thick loose pelt & coat of good texture. Easily spanned. Moved well. RBB
The Southern Border Terrier Open Show
5th Mar 2023
Judge: Mr Matt Smith (Alncroft)
Many thanks to the club for the invitation to judge at their show and for their hospitality. Thank you to my stewards, and the exhibitors for entering under me. I thoroughly enjoyed my day and was pleased with the quality present. Many of the classes were close decisions and coats played a big part in final standings. Whilst I didn’t find any dogs that I couldn’t span, having spent a lifetime around working terriers some of the bitches in particular were on the larger end of the scale for preference.
Open - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: CH Alcumlow Bloom JW
Placing Critique
There is a lot to like about this bitch. A larger bitch than 1. Very pleasing in profile. In good coat and condition and shown well. Lovely neck and shoulder. Very well balanced. Neat in front. Well made hindquarters. Very pleasing in profile movement.
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 /
Third Place
Name at show: CH Alcumlow Bloom JW
Placing Critique
b/t, longer cast than the 1st 2, more up on the leg, but a very smart bitch, with great balance, narrow front, the thickest of jackets, hence Best Blue and Tan, moving well.
Three Counties Championship Dog Show
9th Jun 2023
Judge: Mrs Jane Roberts (Smalesmouth)
Many thanks to the officers and committee for inviting me to judge Border Terriers at Three Counties Championship Dog Show. My appointment was originally for 2020 but it was worth the wait to be able to judge at this lovely showground at the foot of the Malvern Hills. Many thanks indeed to my stewards Bill and Trish who kept everything moving ringside in an efficient and pleasant manner. My thanks go to all the exhibitors who brought their dogs under me. It was a real privilege and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. There were some close decisions and I would like to thank all those who accepted my decisions so sportingly.
Based on my entry I felt that the overall quality of the breed was good. Most were fit and I thought that fronts and heads had improved from the last time I judged. There were only a few that I was unable to span and a couple who had missing teeth and one that had a kinked tail. I was particularly pleased with my bitch line-up and I thought there were some very good quality exhibits who on another day could be ticket winners.
Open - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: CH Alcumlow Bloom JW
Class Critique
An excellent class
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.
Open - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: CH Alcumlow Bloom JW
Placing Critique
B&T. Very shapely bitch , a tad bigger than my winner. Lovely profile with super neckline into shoulders, firm topline and tail set. Stood well on good legs and well padded feet. Moved well.
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.
Open - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: CH Alcumlow Bloom JW
Class Critique
What a class! Worthy of it’s own line-up. Loved ‘em all.
