Show Placings
Birtley and District Canine Society Limited Show
27th Sep 2015
Judge: Joy Cunningham (Elvandar)
Best Puppy
Name at show: TPG1, Otterpaws Firebird
Graduate /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Driffield Agricultural Society
3rd Oct 2015
Judge: Miss Jean Singh
Many thanks to my two efficient stewards who kept the proceedings running smoothly. On the day I was surprised to find 4 level mouths, although a level mouth is acceptable in the standard, a scissor bite is preferable. Some exhibits could have been shown in a fitter condition and have their long nails clipped.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Placing Critique
A six month puppy who was short of coat but what was there was good. She has a feminine head, good mouth and a nice outline, was easily spanned and showed well. She was the best mover in the class.
The Northern Border Terrier Club Open Show
4th Oct 2015
Judge: Mr J Thomas (Daluce)
It was an honour to be invited to judge such a prestigious show as "The Northern Border Terrier Club Open Show " I would like to humbly thank the committee for their invitation and their warm welcome on the day.
I would also like to thank my stewards on the day Allen Horner, Anne Maltby and Dave Mitchell, who kept the ring running smoothly for me.
Finally would like to thank the exhibitors for giving me the pleasure of going over their dogs and accepting my decisions in a sporting manner.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Maiden - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
The Border Terrier Club Open Show
17th Oct 2015
Judge: Mrs. Joyce Martin (Merumhor)
I would like to thank the Border terrier Club for the invitation to judge at the Open Show at Low Hesket. It was an honour and privilege to be offered this appointment. I was delighted with the super entry of 96 dogs making a total entry of 132 and appreciate the turnout of so many fine dogs on the day and the sporting way my decisions were taken. Thank you to my ring stewards Ken McKenzie and Dave Hodgson for keeping everything running smoothly for me. Also thank you to the committee for their hospitality and to Jane Shaw for providing a lovely lunch which I enjoyed very much.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Maiden - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Placing Critique
7 month old g/t puppy, that was 3rd in the MPB class. She has a very sweet feminine head and an alert expression and short muzzle. She has a nice reach of neck and outline with racy hind quarters. Shown in good harsh coat with plenty pelt. Moved well.
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Championship Show
14th Nov 2015
Judge: Miss T James (Blackmine)
I was honoured to be invited to judge at the Scottish Border Terrier Club and I thoroughly enjoyed my day. It was concerning that there were a large proportion of exhibits with poor front movement. The other area which I thought needed attention was heads – many lacked strength in foreface. On the positive side all the dogs had good temperaments, were clean and trimmed up to a good standard. Coats were all at various stages (as usual) but I found very few single coated exhibits. It was also pleasing to see so many neat cat-like feet. I felt that the quality of the bitches out-weighed that of the dogs.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Novice - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Placing Critique
Finer type, racy, narrow throughout, good lay of rib and easily spanned.
Houghton-le-Spring CS Open Show
22nd Nov 2015
Judge: Mr Mark Walshaw (Janmark)
Best Puppy
Name at show: TPG3, Otterpaws Firebird
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Sunderland and District Canine Society Open Show
29th Nov 2015
Judge: Mr Mike Vickers (Eskwire)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG1, Otterpaws Firebird
Best Puppy
Name at show: RBPIS, TPG1, Otterpaws Firebird
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Newton Aycliffe and District Canine Society Open Show
6th Dec 2015
Judge: Mr Jim McGhie (Keillor)
Reserve Best Of Breed
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Best Puppy
Name at show: TPG2, Otterpaws Firebird
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
North and South Shields Open Show
3rd Jan 2016
Judge: Mrs Sandra Girling (Benattivo)
Many thanks to the Society for the kind invitation to judge and also to the exhibitors who trusted me with their lovely Border Terriers. My steward was friendly and efficient.
Puppy /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Junior /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Placing Critique
Also 3rd in the Puppy Class. 10 month old grizzle bitch. Has a nice head good mouth. Finer in bone than the winner she moves soundly I just prefer the overall balance of 1.
Boston & District Canine Society
10th Jan 2016
Judge: Mrs Janet Lee (Tythrop)
My thanks to the Society for my invitation to judge at Boston show . Thanks too to my stewards who were both efficient and unobtrusive , great timesavers and cheerful ! I very much enjoyed my day on the woolsack and had some lovely dogs and bitches who I felt could do a days work , having the construction to enable them to run the equivalent of a marathon over rough terrain , as well as being narrow , lithe and spannable to get in underground and ultimately back out again . Some did pay the penalty of being too big in rib and thus were heavily over standard for weight when picked up or too wide in front to get in , others failed in their construction to move in a sound , balanced , long , free striding way making one think they could not follow a horse any distance ! All bar 1 male were entire , there were a few with kinks in their tails and I had more than the usual number of level bites , some with very jumbled or small teeth which I feel must be watched carefully and please try to breed out as they are the defence of a working terrier – Border Terriers should have big scissor bite dentition . I still believe a BT should be capable of free standing and moving on a looser lead as of yore , rather than having their legs screwed on and being too strung up , I understand some dogs do not make the most of themselves free stood , but a lot are pushed into a very strange shape by their handlers ,and lose the vivacity and ‘active and game’ outlook that is part and parcel of the breed , making them very depressed , even some of the puppies looked as though they would rather be anywhere else but in a show ring , either from being over shown or over handled . There were a few dogs who I felt needed more weight on them , their coats hiding their stuck up spine & pin bones – this may be to try and make them more easily spannable or weigh nearer the standard , but it is very unfair on any adult or puppy to starve them , and they did pay the price in some classes as they could not work as thin and lacking strength as they were. In other words they should be made right not starved into shape .
Both my challenge line ups pleased me , and I was especially pleased to have such a good even bitch challenge where I was spoilt for choice , ultimately the dog and bitch I could visualize most easily following horse and hounds and then working gained top honours , being well made , spannable , good coats and pelts , sound free accurate movers with quality and breed type .
Puppy - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Darlington and District Canine Society Open Show
6th Feb 2016
Judge: Val Harley (Donvalset)
Best Puppy
Name at show: TPG1, Otterpaws Firebird
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Cumberland Canine Association Open Show
7th Feb 2016
Judge: Mr. Bob Wright (Totherend)
My thanks to the organisers, stewards and exhibitors for a very welcoming and well supported show despite the current inclement conditions.
Puppy /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Junior /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Jarrow and Heeburn Canine Society Open Show
14th Feb 2016
Judge: Miss Bridget Singh (Borderbridge)
Junior /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Cleveland Dog Society’s Open Show
21st Feb 2016
Judge: Mrs Lesley Gosling (Akinside)
My thanks to the Society for its warm welcome and to exhibitors, as well as my friendly steward, who kept proceedings moving along.
Border coats varied considerably, bearing in mind that exhibitors want coats to be tiptop for Crufts. I didn’t penalise for lack of coat if texture was correct and evidence of top coat present. Fronts continue to be an issue, with some exhibits wide or toeing-in at the front.
Best Puppy
Name at show: TPG3, Otterpaws Firebird
Graduate /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Placing Critique
11mth old; short of coat but good size & easy to span. Eyes dark but rather ‘full’ and would benefit from some fill beneath. Front needs to improve. Good tail and tailset. BP & TGP3.
The Border Terrier Club Open Show
27th Feb 2016
Judge: Mrs Elizabeth Barrett (Howthwaite)
Firstly, I would like to thank the committee, members and exhibitors for the fantastic entry at this, my first club open show. It was a great privilege to judge here on the 50th anniversary of the Jedbergh show and to be able to get my hands on all these dogs. Thank you to my ring stewards, Jane Morton-Shaw and Janice Johnson for their hard work and efficiency. Thank you also, to Carole MacKenzie for going the extra mile with my lunch and plying me with all sorts of gluten free goodies!
All the dogs were entire and I found only two or three kinked tails, but mouths were a bit of a concern. There were a lot of level bites, and although “acceptable” we should all be mindful of this when breeding on. Strong scissor bites with typically large teeth is what we should be aiming for. The majority of dogs were in good fit order, but unfortunately a small number of exhibits were rather thin and lacking condition. The two shouldn’t be confused. There were also quite a number of very short, and in some cases, sprung ribs, and quite a few lacking angulation and length of upper arm in front. On a positive note, there were some very promising youngsters, especially in the young bitch classes, which can only bode well for the future.
Puppy - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Junior - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Class Critique
A nice class.
Special Beginners - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Billingham Synthonia Canine Club Open Show
28th Feb 2016
Judge: Mrs Anne Heathcote (Saxheath)
Best Puppy
Name at show: TPG1, Otterpaws Firebird
Puppy /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Northern Counties Sporting Terrier Association Open Show
5th Mar 2016
Judge:
Junior - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Post Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Yorkshire, Lancashire & Cheshire Border Terrier Club Open Show
19th Mar 2016
Judge: Mr. Stewart Golding (Beaconpike)
Firstly I would like to thank the club for inviting me to judge my first BTC open show special thanks to the committee and members for a lovely show and exhibitors for my entry, thank you to my ring stewards Graham Richardson and Bridget Singh for keeping things running smoothly. I was very happy with all my placings I had some tough decisions and some placings on another day could easily change place. All dogs were entire and I was pleased to see many dogs shown in correct double coat. On a negative note I had two exhibits with teeth out of line and a few level bites although acceptable a scissor bite is preferable. As the first line of the breed standard states ‘essentially a working terrier’ personally I would like to see more dogs in fitter harder condition ‘fit for purpose’.
Junior - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Placing Critique
Grizzle and tan bitch with much the same comments as 1st a close decision could easily change places on another day.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Whitehaven & DCA Open Show
20th Mar 2016
Judge: Anna Duxbury (Ridgebow)
I would very much like to thank the officers and committee for offering me this appointment, and for their excellent hospitality. Thanks also to the ring steward/show secretary who kept things running smoothly. Mostly, of course, I would like to thank all the exhibitors for allowing me not only the privilege of going over their dogs and their sporting acceptance of my decisions but also their patience whilst waiting for our ring to become free! Temperaments on the day were excellent; coats were quite varied. I found no dogs with incorrect bites and all male dogs were entire.
Junior /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Post Graduate /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Tweedmouth Canine Society Open Show
25th Mar 2016
Judge: Mrs Margaret Armstrong (Carrickfarm)
I would like to thank the Officers and Committee for offering me this appointment and for their excellent hospitality . I had a lovely entry and would like to thank the exhibitors for allowing me to go over their dogs.
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Placing Critique
12 mths grizzle bitch built on racy lines. Feminine head with dark eye, good mouth and good reach of neck flowing into level topline. Tight harsh jacket. Moved and showed well.
Graduate /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
The Border Terrier Club Championship Show
26th Mar 2016
Judge: Mr Bill Gray (Pontbeck)
A very big thank you to the club members, committee and officers for the privilege to judge this show for a second time. The club ensured I enjoyed my day with a warm welcome and being attentive to my every need. My stewards efficiency took a good burden from my shoulders and I was allowed to concentrate and assess the dogs.
Coats were a mixed bag from very little to very full but I would just say you can't judge something you can't see. I found it strange that some exhibits were stripped out except for a ridge of top coat running down their spine, creating a good outline is important but you can feel for body shape while handling. Heads were, in the main, very good to excellent with only a few that were lacking true Border character. The breed seems to have got on top of the problem regarding rear movement but front movement still needs to be addressed with a good number of exhibits " throwing their front around "
I was delighted in my main winners especially BIS. If I have seen a better example of the breed during the many years I've had an interest I can't remember. An outstanding dog in every respect, a true ambassador for Border Terriers and a dog that will be remembered in generations to come. I feel privileged to have had the opportunity of judging him.
The two puppy bitch classes along with junior and yearling bitch were packed with quality and that bodes well for the future.
Junior - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Special Beginners - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Placing Critique
Grizzle in good coat, nice head, moved OK
The Northern Border Terrier Club Open Show
16th Apr 2016
Judge: Mrs. Kathy Newsome (Kighill)
My thanks go to the Northern Border committee for their warm welcome and for the honour of judging their Open show. I really enjoyed my day, and the ladies put on a lovely lunch and Christine’s apple pie was the best pudding of the day. I received a lovely entry and I was very pleased with my winners. My thanks also go out to the exhibitors for allowing me to inspect their dogs on the day. My thanks also go to my two stewards who were a great help on the day.
It is only my opinion, but I think that the size of the border terriers is slowly returning back in line with the breed standard which I am pleased about as I thought that Border terriers were getting too long in the leg. Mouths were good, all dogs were entire, but just a few exhibits were a bit close at the rear. A few exhibitors could do with spending a little time learning how to tidy their dogs and how to get the best out of the dog on the day.
Junior - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Placing Critique
Pleasing head and eyes, keen expression, good shoulders, moved ok.
Scottish Kennel Club
22nd May 2016
Judge: Mr Simon Jackson
Junior - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Placing Critique
Nice feminine type of Border Terrier with a good coat. Good movement and construction. Head not quite as good as 1st.
Yearling - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Open Show
5th Jun 2016
Judge: Mr C Wallace (Hobholt)
My thanks to the officers, committee and members of The Scottish Border Terrier Club for the invitation and to the exhibitors, thank you for bringing your Borders'. My steward Joyce Orr was superb as was the welcome, hospitality and lunch. The weather was spectacular, but became increasingly hotter as the day progressed. Everyone took care to make sure the Borders were kept cool, in the shade and well hydrated. I noticed two level bites during judging, (not a problem), all the dogs were complete, a couple of Borders were a little over weight compared to the standard. I noticed a few Borders had a fair amount of tartar on their teeth, nails and dewclaws could have been trimmed on some. Nevertheless, a nice group of Borders who were credit to the breed and their owners.
Junior - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Placing Critique
15mth, Gr&T, Moderate to strong head, well set ears, good mouth and big teeth, in full coat. Moderate bone, strong, fit border, good front and moved well
Yearling - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Placing Critique
2nd in Junior
Border Union Agricultural Society
19th Jun 2016
Judge: Mrs M Wanless
My sincere thanks go to the officers and committee of Border Union for this appointment, this is such a well run, friendly show, with outstanding hospitality!
My thanks also to my two Stewards on the day, Ella Linton, and Alan Small. Thank you too to all those who entered under me, and came, and accepted my decisions with good grace. I was pleased with my winners. I do wish though that dogs were shown on a loose lead, and stacked freely. Big ears are becoming prevalent, not as in the standard. Presentation and condition played a large part in my decisions.
Junior - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Class Critique
A strong class.
Ashington and District Canine Society Open Show
2nd Jul 2016
Judge: Mr David Robbins (Chenting)
Junior /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Graduate /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
East of England Agricultural Society
9th Jul 2016
Judge: Mrs A E Gregory
This was my first appointment at this level and I would like to thank the organisers of the East of England Show for giving me this opportunity. I would also like to thank my two stewards, David and Pat Sutton for keeping everything running along smoothly. Thanks must also go to the exhibitors for allowing me the honour and privilege of judging their dogs and for the sporting way in which they accepted my decisions. I thoroughly enjoyed my day!
Movement on the whole was good but front movement in a few was incorrect with toeing in when coming towards me. A few lacked muscle tone and some feet and nails could have been tidied to better advantage. Thick pelts were in the minority and some exhibits were shown without undercoat and this affected placings. Considering the harsh terrain in which the Border Terrier is expected to carry out its’ work, it should be in fit, hard condition with a thick double coat and pelt of depth and quality. Some heads also had stops which were too deep. This does not present a correct otter like head which should have a shallow stop. I also found a couple of suspect mouths and a few dogs, when lifted off the table, were too heavy. Some dogs would have benefited from more ring training. However, I was pleased with my winners and, in some classes, decisions were close. Although early rain made the ring conditions less than desirable, all dogs coped well.
Junior - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Graduate - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
The Northern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
16th Jul 2016
Judge: Mrs. Margaret Bailey (Grindelvald)
I would like to thank the Northern Border Terrier Club’s committee for the invitation to judge at this well organised & friendly show, I really enjoyed my day. A big thank you, to my stewards Sharon & Graham, who kept me on track throughout the day. On the down side some poor mouths, some of the males where lacking substance & not very masculine, bordering on thin, not sure they could do a days work. The depth of quality in the bitches was excellent & this meant that some decisions were very close & many lovely bitches missed out on this occasion. Also my thanks to the exhibitors for their sporting acceptance of my decisions.
Yearling - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Special Beginners - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
York Canine Association
31st Jul 2016
Judge: Mrs Elizabeth Barrett (Howthwaite)
I would like to thank York Canine Association for inviting me to judge their 125th anniversary show. Thank you also for the great hospitality and to my efficient ring stewards. I had an excellent entry of quality dogs to go over and would like to thank all of the exhibitors for their entries. Unfortunately with only three mixed sex classes, some very good dogs had to stand down the line, but all of my card winners had the attributes I look for.
Post Graduate /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
The Midland Border Terrier Club Championship Show
7th Aug 2016
Judge: Dogs: Ms Elspeth Jackson, Bitches: Mr Mike Hollingsbee
Dogs - Elspeth Jackson
I would like to extend many thanks to The Committee of the Midland Border Terrier Club for once again organising an enjoyable, well run show with a relaxed garden party atmosphere. It was an honour and a pleasure this year to enjoy it as Judge of the dog classes and I would like to thank the Officers and Committee for this honour. I was very ably assisted by two capable and efficient stewards to whom I would like to give thanks both for their help and for their hospitality. Further and important thanks are due to all the exhibitors who did me the honour of going over their dogs. It was a super entry both numerically and in depth of quality with cc quality dogs right down the line in some classes.
Bitches - Mike Hollingsbee
I would like to thank the Officers and Committee of the Club for inviting me to judge bitches at their show. I would also like to thank my stewards Sharon Pickering and Helen Thomas for keeping me in order and running the ring so efficiently. My thanks also go to the exhibitors for allowing me to examine their dogs and accepting my decisions.
Together with my co-judge Elspeth Jackson we managed to agree on the major honours of the day apart from Best Veteran. I preferred Elspeth’s dog choice and she chose my selection of veteran bitch. Our referee John Dace was called in and awarded Best Veteran to the bitch.
Graduate - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Scottish Kennel Club
27th Aug 2016
Judge: Professor A S Milton
It was a pleasure to come back to Scotland, even though for just a day, and to judge Border Terriers at the Scottish Kennel Club's August Show. Looking at the catalogue I was surprised to find that Border Terriers had the fourth largest entry at the show. It was a very satisfactory entry, with many dogs that I had not seen before. I was particularly impressed with the overall quality of the coats. There was only one really bad mouth, a few crooked teeth, so what, as long as they can bite! I was concerned about size, not only those outwith the standard, but also even more worrying, those that I could not span. I should like to thank Joyce Martin for sending me a CD with photos of all the class winners.
RBCC
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Junior - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Placing Critique
RBCC Very alert young bitch, responsive to her handler. Good otter head with keen expression. Excellent reach of neck, good topline with carrot shaped tail. Good front and excellent hind leg angulation. Went round the ring with gusto.
Yearling - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Placing Critique
Attractive feminine bitch. Good reach of neck, acceptable topline and tail set. More attention needed to coat. Moved well
Wolsingham & Wear Valley AS Open Show
4th Sep 2016
Judge: Mrs Lesley Roberts (Mindlen)
Junior /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Post Graduate /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Open /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Darlington Championship Dog Show
16th Sep 2016
Judge: Mr Mark Lowry (Ravenside)
Thank you to Darlington Dog Show Society for inviting me to judge their show. Special thanks to my stewards who’s relaxed but competent manner made for an enjoyable show, also a big thank you to all the exhibitors for allowing me to go over their dogs. I was very happy with my main winners who I felt were fit for purpose and should have continued success in the show ring.
Mouths were good with even the smaller exhibits still having big strong teeth. Coats were of various lengths as to be expected. The two biggest concerns were heavy, almost sprung ribs in some dogs. Even on some smaller dogs and bitches, which in profile appear fine, but when going over, were surprisingly big in rib. This would hinder them when working underground. I am not saying they should be flat ribbed but the standard states deep and narrow and not over sprung.
Also I found not many dogs moving without much drive from behind. They should have the soundness to follow a horse. I did think on the whole that dogs were turned out very well and temperaments appeared good.
Yearling - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Driffield Agricultural Society Championship Dog Show
1st Oct 2016
Judge: Mrs Jane Roberts (Smalesmouth)
I would like to thank the officers and committee of the Driffield Agricultural Society for the invitation to judge at their show.
I was grateful to have the use of an excellent sized ring. The surface was rather undulating and rough cut in places, which proved more of a challenge to those dogs whose movement did not have “the soundness to follow a horse”. It was a very raw start to the day with the dogs being judged under rather cold and misty conditions although the sun did break through as the bitch classes began.
Grateful thanks to my stewards Anne and Sarah, who kept everything moving so efficiently and were good company for the day. My thanks to all the exhibitors, it really is a privilege to go over your dogs and is always a learning curve. I had a thoroughly enjoyable day and there were some top quality exhibits and some promising youngsters, whose progress I will watch with interest. Some decisions were hard, and limit dog, junior and limit bitch had quality in depth.
It was extremely rewarding to find some very good double jackets amongst the entry but felt there were several others who had thin pelts or lacked undercoat. There were a couple with teeth out of alignment and too many dogs whose movement lacked the necessary drive from the hindquarters.
I was mindful of the job that Border Terriers were bred to undertake and I was pleased with my class winners; making the challenge for both dogs and bitches an enjoyable if difficult task.
Yearling - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
The Border Terrier Club Open Show
15th Oct 2016
Judge: Mr. Graham Richardson (Staynorwood)
I would like to thank The Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge their Open Show . The club and officers were very welcoming and I thoroughly enjoyed my day . I would like to thank my very helpful stewards Liz Barratt and Janice Johnson who kept things flowing through the day . I was pleased with my entry with some quality dogs to handle. It was also good to see some promising pups coming through . I was very pleased with my winners on the day
Special Beginners - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Placing Critique
Feminine expression ,correct scissor bite , narrow front , well set shoulders ,spannable . Shown in full double jacket, rear quarters well angulated, moved well.
The Scottish BTC Championship Show
12th Nov 2016
Judge: Mrs. Nancy Hogg (Raeburnfoot)
Thank you for inviting me to judge this show. If my memory serves me correctly this was the very first Border Terrier show I exhibited at……30 years ago.
It really was a pleasure to go over so many good examples of the breed. Coats were at various stages and some paid the penalty with either little top coat or totally blown. Mouths were good. Some movement, especially front. Not so good. Size was better than I have seen in the past. Temperament on every exhibit was really good I am pleased to say. No noise from the cage area either that I was aware of. I was delighted with my main winners.
Special thanks must go to my very able steward and to the kitchen ladies for a lovely meal and coffee.
Yearling - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Sunderland and District Canine Society Open Show
27th Nov 2016
Judge: Debbie Lorraine (Raleniro)
I would like to thank the society for inviting me to judge at their open show, and I have to say the hospitality shown to me was some of the best I’ve ever had! This is one of my local shows, and I was absolutely delighted with the size and quality of the entry I was privileged to be given the opportunity to judge. I also wish to thank the exhibitors for the sporting way in which they accepted my decisions. I was spoilt for choice in some of the classes, and places could have changed on another day. As to be expected at this time of year, coats were at various stages, and this did have a bearing on some of the placings. All males were entire, all bites were correct, and temperaments across the board were excellent. I thoroughly enjoyed my day!
Open /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Placing Critique
21 month old grizzle and tan bitch. Slightly finer throughout than 1 and longer coupled. Feminine head with alert expression. Good scissor bite. Slightly wider in front than 1 but easily spanned and ribbed well back. Excellent angulation and one of the best movers of the day. Thick pelt but her jacket, although still of good texture, was past it’s best. A nice bitch that would also do a day’s work.
Darlington DCS Open Show
4th Feb 2017
Judge: Mr D G Taylor (Uptnorth)
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Jarrow & Hebburn CS Open Show
12th Feb 2017
Judge: Mrs Elizabeth Barrett (Howthwaite)
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Placing Critique
Grizzle and tan, nearly two years old. Short strong muzzle, dark eye and correct bite. Nice for size. Small neat feet. Well ribbed back. Harsh topcoat just coming in. Good undercoat and thick pelt. Active on the move.
The Border Terrier Club Open Show
25th Feb 2017
Judge: Rachel Larner (Hawcoat)
Firstly I would like to thank the club and its committee members for inviting me to judge their show, it was an honour and privilege and I thoroughly enjoyed my day. Thank you to my two lovely stewards, Liz Barrett and Anna Duxbury, for their help and assistance and for keeping the show running smoothly. Lastly I would like to thank all the exhibitors for entering and bringing their lovely dogs for me to judge. I have done the majority of my judging, so far, in the south west and wales so it was a real pleasure to go over some dogs that I have not had the pleasure of judging, Northern dogs are a lot hardier than our southerners!!
I had some quality dogs to go over which gave me some tough decisions to make and wish I could have given out more cards. I found all dogs to be entire and no bad mouths, apart from the odd missing tooth in the Veteran class!
I really did have a fabulous day and just want to apologise for not getting this critique out sooner.
Special Beginners - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Placing Critique
Grizzle bitch with a good otter head. Good reach of neck, well laid shoulders and a good front. Liked the size of this bitch. Good bend of stifle, moved well on neat feet. Shown in a good coat and condition.
Class Critique
Two very nice borders.
Northern Counties Sporting Terrier Association
18th Mar 2017
Judge: Dogs Mrs Val Mann - Bitches Mrs Norma Ellis
Thankyou for the nice entry of bitches spoilt for choice. A nice friendly show with a hard working Committee. Norma Ellis
Thank you to the Committee of this friendly, well run show for inviting me to judge the Border Terrier dogs. Val Mann
Best Bitch
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Placing Critique
Liked this girls overall size presented a good outline when stacked and didn’t disappoint when asked to move. Sweet head and short muzzle reachy neck and correct shoulders, good length and depth nice tight feet carried tail well and moved precisely, excellent wire jacket in tip top condition. Res BOB.
Birtley and District Canine Society Open Show
2nd Apr 2017
Judge:
Dogs: Alison Matthews (Tojamat) Thanks go to the committee for the appointment and the generous hospitality offered and to my Steward Barry who guided me through. Thanks also to the exhibitors for the sporting way they accepted my decisions. I judged with fit for function in mind while looking for that added sparkle that makes a showdog.
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG3, Otterpaws Firebird
Best Bitch
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Consett CS Open Show
9th Apr 2017
Judge: Cath Parker (Osmart)
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
The Northern Border Terrier Club Open Show
15th Apr 2017
Judge: Mr. Stewart Golding (Beaconpike)
Firstly I would like to thank the club for inviting me to judge their open show thank you to my stewards Alan Horner Anna Duxbury and Graham Richardson for keeping things running smoothly. Thank you to the exhibitors for allowing me to judge their dogs. I thoroughly enjoyed my day and was delighted to judge a show I regularly attend myself. I was very pleased with all my main winners I had some quality dogs to judge on the day my decisions in some classes were made difficult and on another day could easily change places.
Limit - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Newton Aycliffe & District Canine Society Open Show
13th May 2017
Judge: Anna Duxbury (Ridgebow)
I would very much like to thank the officers and committee for offering me this appointment, and for their excellent hospitality. Thanks also to my ring steward. Mostly I would like to thank all the exhibitors for allowing me to go over their dogs and accepting my decisions in such a sporting manner. I found no dogs with incorrect bites and all male dogs were entire.
Post Graduate /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Placing Critique
2 year old grizzle bitch with super head and expression. Good mouth. Nice neck length. Good angulation all round. Good pelt – coat just going past it’s best. Difficult decision between the two but just preferred narrower front of 1.
Northumberland County Show
29th May 2017
Judge: Mr Colin Powell (Bowtman)
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Open Show
4th Jun 2017
Judge: Karen S Stockley (Foxfactor)
My grateful thanks go to the ScBTC for the opportunity to judge their Open Show, the lovely gift and the excellent lunch. It’s always an honour and privilege to judge at Club Shows. Thanks also to my stewards Jim Stewart and Helen Mc Kenzie.
I had some very nice exhibits to go over with some tough decisions to make.I was pleased to find that the vast majority were in fit condition, I found 3 with incorrect dentition and just one kinked tail. I thank the exhibitors for the entry and for gracefully accepting my placings.
Unfortunately ResBPIS was not awarded as I was informed there wasn’t an award so my apologies to the Puppy Bitch winner
Limit - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Border Union Agricultural Society
17th Jun 2017
Judge: Mr Phil Sharp (Martec)
I would like to thank the Committee for inviting me to judge at this Show. It was my first visit to Kelso and I was most impressed with the hospitality and organisation there. My two excellent stewards, Gordon and Donald, kept me on the straight and narrow and contributed to a lovely atmosphere in and around the ring.
I did not make my usual visit to the SBTC championship show the weekend before as I wanted to see all the dogs afresh, and I am glad I did as many of the exhibits were new to me. In general, mouths were good, with dentition only slightly awry in one instance. I found no kinked tails and all dogs were entire.
It was a very hot and sunny day and this affected some dogs, who perhaps lacked their normal animation and were moving lethargically. As usual, there was a wide variation in coats, with some totally lacking top coat, and this naturally had an effect on the placings.
I would like to thank the exhibitors for the large entry and for the sporting way in which my decisions were taken throughout my judging stint.
Graduate - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Class Critique
I found this a difficult class to judge.
Ashington & District Open Show
1st Jul 2017
Judge: Margaret Davies (Glenorchy)
Many thanks to the Society for their kind invitation and hospitality, my steward for keeping things flowing nicely and to the exhibitors for their entry and giving me the opportunity to go over their dogs in a sportsman like manner. Thank you.
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG2, Otterpaws Firebird
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Placing Critique
Nicely proportioned bitch with good head and keen expression. Nice reach of neck flowing into well laid shoulders. Good tight feet, correct tail set, good thick pelt and easily spanned.
Liked her overall picture which won her BOB and TG2. Well done.
Durham County Canine Association Open Show
16th Jul 2017
Judge: Tracy Butler (Ycart)
I'd like to thank the officers and committee for inviting me to judge there show at this beautiful venue,thanks also go to my excellent steward and the sporting way in which the exhibitors excepted my decisions.
Limit /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Placing Critique
Pleasing red bitch,nice head,with enough strengh,correct bite,easy spanned,good coat and pelt,neat tight feet,correct tail set,moves ok,better going than coming.
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Placing Critique
Winner of limit.
Scottish Kennel Club
27th Aug 2017
Judge: Mr Euan Castel (Flutorum)
My thanks to the committee for their kind invitation to judge at this my local Championship Show. Special thanks to my excellent steward Ben Joiner for keeping everything in order. Thank you to all exhibitors for providing me with a lovely entry to go over. I found a depth of quality in each class with some close decisions to make. Very pleased that my Best of Breed, Best Puppy and Best Veteran went on to do well in their respective groups – well done.
Limit - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Wolsingham & Wear Valley Agricultural Society Open Show
3rd Sep 2017
Judge: Fran Kaye (Danfrebek)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG1, Otterpaws Firebird
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Darlington
15th Sep 2017
Judge: Miss T James (Blackmine)
Thank you to everyone who entered under me. It was a fantastic entry and I thoroughly enjoyed my days judging. It is a beauty competition and it is much easier to assess a dog when it is well trained and well turned out. Showmanship sometimes comes naturally to some dogs and then others you have to work hard at. I was very pleased with all my winners.
Limit - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
Driffield Championship Show
30th Sep 2017
Judge: Mrs Janet Lee (Tythrop)
Apologies to my exhibitors , my technology has failed to send this when first done.
Trying conditions for the society due to heavy rain meant that parking was a long way from the rings unlike the behind the tent easy access we are used to. The ground underfoot was very trying, but thankfully our ring was only churned up in a couple of places. Once again I thoroughly enjoyed my day and appreciated the tenacity of the exhibitors for coming and their sporting acceptance of my decisions. Only one o two fine showers marred the day.
A diversity of size and construction came forward, and I was struck by how many took a rather short stride going round the ring. Some paid the price on the day for lack of coat, but mainly for being big in rib and heavy when picked up.
I was very pleased with my line ups and thought them a good representation of what I consider "essentially working terriers" being lithe in body with narrowness, free moving soundness and good type to fulfil the criterion of the standard.
Limit - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Championship Show
11th Nov 2017
Judge: Mrs E Cuthbertson (Ashbrae)
My thanks to the Officers, Committee and members of the Club for this appointment. It was a privilege to judge, with a very nice entry and sporting atmosphere throughout the day.
My thanks for the hospitality, gift and excellent lunch, and to my steward Shona.
I was pleased with the entry overall, coats varied throughout. My main concern not only today but with the breed in general would be size with many being too big and something that must be considered in future breeding. Front movement with pinning in lost some dogs placings today. It was rewarding to start two youngsters off with their first CC’s and I wish them well for their future.
Mid Limit - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Houghton-Le-Spring Open Show
12th Nov 2017
Judge: Barry Croft (Malcro)
Open /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Newton Aycliffe & District Canine Society Open Show
3rd Dec 2017
Judge: Mr Geoff Sugars (Foxcraig)
Open /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Birtley and District CS Open Show
1st Apr 2018
Judge: Tracey Anscombe (Orangebox)
Thank you to the committee and Secretary for the invitation to judge at your show, the hospitality was second to none. Thanks to the NBTC for sponsoring the class, my steward Dave and all the exhibitors for bringing your dogs under me.
Reserve Best Of Breed
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Placing Critique
This grizzle and tan had the best coat and pelt of the day but couldn’t match the dog for overall quality and showmanship. She has a pretty head with small ears, dark eye and correct bite. Moved the best in the class holding her top line.
The Northern Border Terrier Club Open Show
14th Apr 2018
Judge: Ms Judith Fawcett (Carrock)
I would firstly like to thank the Northern Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge their show and for their lovely hospitality – lunch was very tasty. Thank you also to the committee for their lovely gift. My two stewards, Graham Richardson and Geoff Sugars, kept things moving along nicely – well done. This was my first breed club show and I was absolutely delighted with the excellent entry – thank you to everyone for giving me the opportunity of going over your dogs. As expected coats were at various stages but on the whole were good; only a couple of exhibits on the day had no coat at all. All dogs were entire and there were no kinked tails. There were one or two missing or broken teeth, especially in the veteran class and one or two untidy mouths. I thoroughly enjoyed my day and was delighted with my main winners - I had some really good quality dogs to judge.
Limit - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Class Critique
Two lovely B/T bitches headed this class both well handled by their owners and both shown in fit condition – it was a close decision.
Yorkshire, Lancashire & Cheshire Border Terrier Club Open Show
12th May 2018
Judge: Mrs. Carolyn Richardson (Staynorwood)
Many thanks to the Officers and Committee of the YLBTC for their kind invitation to judge their Open Show and the exhibitors for the sporting way they accepted my decisions. Thank you also to my Ring Stewards Ian Hopper and Bridget Singh. I was very pleased with my winners on the day.
Limit - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Open Shiow
3rd Jun 2018
Judge: Mrs J Lilley (Kensing)
What a privilege it was to judge Border Terriers actually at their home in the Borders! Thank you to all exhibitors for such a flattering entry of charming dogs and thank you to all the committee and officers for your welcome, hospitality and generosity. complete with a delicious lunch. Certainly it was one of the best halls that could be imagined for a breed open show with the option to judge outside had the weather been better. I was most impressed with the hard condition of the vast majority of the entry and particularly with the thickness of pelts and short thick carrot tails. There seemed to be a sporting friendly atmosphere throughout to give me such a memorable happy day. I must just add an extra thank you to my helpful steward, Katie Hamilton, and to Margaret Boulcott, for whose great kindness, hospitality and long distance driving skills I was so grateful.
Limit - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Placing Critique
well balanced and conformed all through with good shoulders, tailset and carriage. Lovely size and type, in harsh mature coat. Very good mover. 3
Border Union Agricultural Society
17th Jun 2018
Judge: Mrs Anne Gregory (Remony)
My thanks to the officers and committee of the Border Union Agricultural Society for inviting me to judge today. Thank you also to the exhibitors for giving me, by far, the biggest Terrier entry of the day. A big thank you to my two stewards, Nev and Liz Holmes-Leak, who kept things running smoothly and efficiently thus ensuring that we finished in time for my BOB to make the Group.
Coats were at varying stages, with some in their underclothes, and in some cases this was the deciding factor. Some exhibits were too fine in bone, particularly in the earlier classes. Some heads had ears set too high, some had deep stops with muzzles that were too short which gives a foreign expression. There were more than a few exhibits which would have benefited from having their feet tidied and nails cut. Soundness of movement in some dogs gave cause for concern. If a Border is to be fit for the function it was intended, it needs to be sound on the move. I found varying degrees of unsoundness in front movement from toeing in, crossing in front to paddling and out at the elbows. Hind movement in some exhibits was also less than desirable with hocks too close together when going away, cow hocks, lack of drive from hindquarters and, in some cases, lack of muscle tone. All of which would not allow a Border to be ‘capable of following a horse’ over rugged terrain. On a positive note, I did have some quality dogs to go over and was well pleased with my winners. I was also pleased to see my BOB shortlisted in the group.
Graduate - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Placing Critique
Finer type, built on racy body lines, feminine head with dark eye and good bite, straight front with good feet, coat coming through, moved a little wide in front.
The Northern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
15th Jul 2018
Judge: Professor S P Dean (Tyrian)
Thoroughly enjoyed my day with the NBTC. My thanks to the Committee for the appointment and the exhibitors for their entry of Borders. I was well looked after all day and I would like to express my gratitude to my Stewards who did an excellent job by keeping focused on their task throughout the day. I was extremely pleased with the overall quality of the dogs across both sexes. For those who left without prize cards do not be too disappointed, I saw only one undershot jaw and no dog was out of place in the show ring. My top winners were all outstanding dogs and there were several others who deserve that label who were placed but did not reach the final accounting. Overall heads are very good but let’s be careful not to breed for too much strength in skull. Ensure we balance what we have with equal strength in muzzle and under-jaw and please lots more beautiful large white teeth. Most dogs had the correct outline, with many good top-lines and neat tails. Coats and pelts were generally very good and do not be afraid to show a Border in that rich, thick ,harsh, double coat they are well known for. Generally conformation was correct, with shoulders and stifles showing acceptable angulation. The straight stifle is quite rare, but equally let’s not over do the angulation of the hind limb as that produces weakness. Short hocks go best with correct stifles. Dogs with a length of leg, drive from hindquarters, tight feet and good ribbing did well today provided they had the typical Border Terrier characteristics we all look for. A few dogs are getting a little long in body for a variety of reasons. Some have their shoulder set forwards on the chest, some lack the well ribbed-back conformation and so appear to have long couplings and some have shorter legs than they ideally need. Much of this was marginal today but they are all points to remember as the breed moves forward. I was pleased with the CC line ups and excited by the quality in some of the youngsters coming through. It would have been nice to reward some of these emerging future champions with higher honours but the quality at the top was too much for relatively immature dogs.
Mid Limit - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Cheviot and Berwick Canine Society Open Show
21st Jul 2018
Judge: Mr Craig Richardson
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG2, Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Sunderland &
22nd Jul 2018
Judge: Mrs Julie North (Northborders)
I would like to thank the society for inviting me to judge the Border Terriers and for the very nice hospitality we received (very nice lunch ), I thoroughly enjoyed my appointment in this venue which was well laid out and a nice sized ring
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Placing Critique
G/T bitch A little short on the leg for me but she has a super profile and moves effortlessly holding her top line although moves a little wide in front , the best jacket here today and has the thickest of pelts , a lovely short well set tail correct mouth and attractive feminine head, neat small feet
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
Graduate - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Sedgefield Agricultural Society Open Show
11th Aug 2018
Judge: Mrs C E Samsom (Tarkaswell)
I would like to thank the officers and committee of the Sedgefield Agricultural Show for the invitation to judge today and the exhibitors for giving me such a lovely quality entry. My steward Tom Hall was very efficient, there was a super ringside atmosphere in the warm sunshine.
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Placing Critique
3 year old grizzle bitch,of good size and type. Feminine otter head with dark eye and correct bite. Finer build with a straight front, good top line with well set tail and correct rear angulation. Beautifully presented with correct double coat. She moved soundly.
Wolsingham & Wear Valley Open Show
2nd Sep 2018
Judge: Mr R Wright (Borderexpress)
Many thanks to the officers and committee of Wolsingham & Wear Valley open show for the invite to judge on the day and also the exhibitors that supported my super entry on the day. This is a lovely well organised show and supported tremendously by the local community. Also delighted to see my BOB go Terrier Group 1 and not to be outdone by the Best Puppy also following suit and taking Puppy Group 1 – well done.
Open /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
The Northern Border Terrier Club Open Show
7th Oct 2018
Judge: Gemma Vaughan nee Alpe (Holteal)
My thanks goes to Northern border terrier club firstly for the invite to judge, its was a great honour to judge in a geographically different area to myself. Thank you to all who had entered and all that showed under me.
The hospitality at the show was second to none with a fantastic lunch on offer.
Thank you to my steward Allen Horner on the day who helped run my ring very smoothly.
I was overall very pleased with the quality of dogs that were shown under me just one dog with a bad mouth and another dog with a kinked tail. Varying stages of coats today but I will not place down if I can see what I'm looking for coming through.
Again thank you for your entries and allowing me to judge your dogs.
Open - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Placing Critique
Nice grizzle bitch,good head,correct bite,moved a little wider in front & behind than 1.
Northern Counties Sporting Terrier Association Group Open Show
14th Oct 2018
Judge: Mrs Judy Carr (Wreighaugh) & Mrs Katrina Golding (Beaconpike)
Dogs. I’m very grateful to the NCSTA for their invitation to judge today. Thank you also to the stewards who kept things flowing smoothly and also of course to the exhibitors who kindly entered and allowed me privilege of judging their dogs. Judy Carr (Wreighaugh)
Bitches Many thanks to the club for inviting me to judge and to the exhibitors for a lovely entry. Katrina Golding (Beaconpike)
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Placing Critique
3 year old bitch with appealing head of nice type, good reach of neck, she does tend to stand wide in front, she has good length of body and was in fit condition, standing on nice feet, very much out of coat today.
The Border Terrier Club Open Show
20th Oct 2018
Judge: Mr Kevin Green (Terabyte)
I would like to thank the club officers & committee for inviting me to judge their show. I would also like to thank the stewards Anna & Judith for doing an excellent job and for keeping the show flowing so well. I was very pleased with the entry and thank you to all the exhibitors for such a lovely entry. I had such lovely dogs & bitches to go over on the day, they had good coats and pelts overall, I was a little disappointed on movement. All dogs were entire.
Once again I would like to thank the Club for a well-run show and such enjoyable day.
Limit - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
The Midland Border Terrier Club Open Show
4th Nov 2018
Judge: Mr. Paul Cheeseman (Bromscar)
Limit - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Placing Critique
lacked the bone quality of class winner, but still a well put together bitch, sadly no coat whatsoever on the day but she moved out well.
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.
Graduate - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Spennymoor & DCS Open Show
28th Dec 2018
Judge: Mrs V Atkinson (Raedwulf)
Thank you to Mrs Claire Reed and the committee for inviting me to judge this show and to my very able stewards who ran the ring with great efficiency. The wonderful hospitality and very warm welcome extended to me by the club and exhibitors gave this show a great atmosphere.
I had an excellent entry of Border Terriers who, on the whole, were in good condition with only a couple of level bites and no kinked tails. Coats were in various stages but coats come and go so, as long as there was evidence of coat coming through, I did not penalise. On the day, my final line up consisted entirely of bitches, which reflected the number of quality bitches we have in the breed at present.
It was a long day for all as we were scheduled after several other breeds but the dogs, including the puppies, took it all in their stride. I was very happy to see my BPIB go on to will PG1 and my BOB be awarded TG2 with TG1 going to the dog who eventually won BIS.
Open /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
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.
Limit - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
The Northern Dog Club Open Show
26th Jan 2019
Judge: Prof. David Brigden (Braithwaite)
Open /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Newton Aycliffe and District Canine Society Open Show
27th Jan 2019
Judge: Mr Eddie Webster (Benjcroft)
Open /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Cumberland Canine Association Open Show
3rd Feb 2019
Judge: Debbie Lorraine (Raleniro)
I would like to thank the Society for inviting me to judge at this show and for their hospitality, and also my Steward who kept things moving smoothly. Thank you to the exhibitors who entered under me. As to be expected at this time of year, coats were at various stages. All dogs were entire.
Open /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Placing Critique
Almost 4 year old grizzle and tan bitch. Nice feminine head with good scissor bite. Not quite as narrow in front but spanned easily. Longer coupled and finer throughout than 1 with good rear angulation. Topline ok with correct tailset. Good pelt with excellent harsh jacket. Moved well.
Whitehaven and District Canine Association Open Show
17th Mar 2019
Judge: Mrs M Armstrong (Carrickfarm)
Thank you to the Committee of Whitehaven and District Canine Association for inviting me to judge Border Terriers at their Open Show and for the excellent hospitality and the lovely lunch you provided. I had a super entry and thank the Exhibitors for allowing me the privilege to go over their dogs. I enjoyed the day.
Open - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Northern Counties Sporting Terrier Association Open Show
24th Mar 2019
Judge: Mrs P Cox (Cushatlaw) & Dr M Armstrong (Ploughdown)
Judge: Dr Margaret Armstrong (Ploughdown), Bitches, Thank you to the committee of the Northern Counties Sporting Terrier Association for inviting me to judge at their group open show. I’d also like to thank my stewards for their sterling work in keeping things flowing. There was a lovely atmosphere at the show and the officers and exhibitors were very welcoming. I had a great entry of Border Terrier bitches and my placings were greeted with gracious courtesy. It was a bracing, sunny day and it was good for the Border Terriers to be judged outside, which largely seemed to suit all.
Open - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
National Terrier
6th Apr 2019
Judge: Mr Eddie Houston
My thanks to the Society for inviting me, to my stewards Dave and Pat who kept things moving and most especially to all the exhibitors for entering and allowing me the privilege of going over their dogs.
I was very pleased with my main winners and there was a lot of quality in the puppy classes which should augur well for the future. Temperaments were excellent, all males were entire and there were no serious mouth faults.
On the minus side there were quite a number of animals of both sexes which were up to size and front movement is a real problem throughout the age range. A few dogs were carrying too much weight and a couple could have done with carrying a bit more. There were a number of dogs lacking in muscle-ours is a working breed and an unfit dog would not be able to fulfill the job of a working terrier.
Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Placing Critique
Red grizzle of correct size. Feminine head,generally well constructed and enough coat to demonstrate harsh texture.Sound mover.
The Northern Border Terrier Club Open Show
13th Apr 2019
Judge: Anna Duxbury (Ridgebow)
I would very much like to thank the officers and committee for offering me my first club show in this lovely light, large hall. The hospitality was wonderful! Thanks also to the efficient ring stewards and most of all to all the exhibitors for their wonderful entry and allowing me the privilege of going over their dogs. Sincere thanks for the sporting manner in which my decisions were accepted. Temperaments on the day were excellent, coats were very varied - some good dogs were penalised for not having double coat. No mouths were undershot and all male dogs were entire.
Limit - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Joint Border Terrier Clubs' Championship Show
5th May 2019
Judge: Mrs Su Williams (Hollybridge)
I would like to thank The Border Terrier Club for the invitation & thank my 2 very capable Stewards Carolyn Richardson & Liz Barrett for their help on the day. I would also like to thank those exhibitors who entered under me and who accepted the placing's sportingly. I was pleased to have a number of high quality entries but the down side of that is, some good dogs went card less
Mouths are a bit of a worry as I noticed a few with a tooth or teeth out of line, small teeth and one even undershot. Movement on the whole was good especially in my winners. Coats & Pelts were good too,with just a few thin pelted dogs.
Graduate - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Placing Critique
Loved her varmity expression and her outline and movement
National Dog Show
11th May 2019
Judge: Mrs Anne Heathcote (Saxheath)
I would like to thank the Society for giving me the opportunity to judge our breed for the first time at their 160th Anniversary show and for their hospitality. I was able to complete the judging in good time thanks to my two excellent Stewards Steph and Alan.
The quality of the entry was pleasing overall but one or two could have benefited from tidying , it is a show and you owe it to your dog to present them well , and I was unable to span a few . However , my main winners were for me the correct size and in some of the classes the decisions were very close.
Thank you for accepting my decisions so gracefully.
Graduate - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Open Show
2nd Jun 2019
Judge: Mr Jem Thomas (Daluce)
I would like to thank the club and committee for inviting me to judge their show. My ring steward on the day Lesley Roberts kept things flowing wonderfully for us all. I must pass my complements to the chef. Lunch and hospitality on the day was fantastic. All of this and some very nice dogs to go over on the day. Thank you all very much for a wonderful day.
Limit - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Border Union Agricultural Society
15th Jun 2019
Judge: Joyce Martin (Merumhor)
I would like to thank Border Union Agricultural Society for the invitation to judge my first CC appointment in Border Terriers and to my ring steward Alicia Wilson for keeping me right and the smooth efficiency of getting each class in the ring to keep things going.
I was delighted with the super entry of 123 dogs making 142 entries and appreciate all the exhibitors that gave me the opportunity to go over their dogs and the sporting way they accepted my decisions.
The overall quality was excellent, I was privileged to judge so many lovely dogs and I was pleased with my main winners, all looking in tip top condition on the day.
I was surprised that in some of the exhibits that underneath good coats there was lack of condition and a bit thin and some were lacking thick skin and loose pelt that is important in our breed.
Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Placing Critique
A darker g/t bitch with a strong but feminine head. Shown in a tight jacket with plenty loose pelt and built on racy lines in fit condition. She moved out soundly.
Derbyshire Agricultural & Horticultural Society
23rd Jun 2019
Judge: Mr Jim McGhie (Keillor)
Reserve Best Of Breed
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Hawick & District Canine Society Open Show
30th Jun 2019
Judge: Mr Peter Armstrong (Atron)
Open /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Placing Critique
Grizzle & tan bitch. Owns a strong but still feminine head with a kind expression. Good eye shape & colour. Overall well constructed body. Straight front. Shown in hard condition. Sound positive movement with drive.
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.
Mid Limit - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Carlisle and District Canine Society Open Show
20th Jul 2019
Judge: Mr R Mann (Lynsett)
Open - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Placing Critique
4yr old grizzle. Good head with well set ears. Well laid shoulders. Stands on well boned legs with tight feet. Level topline & well set tail. Moved well.
Stanhope Agricultural Society Open Show
15th Sep 2019
Judge: Mrs Katrina Golding (Beaconpike)
Many thanks to the society for asking me to judge what a wonderful warm welcome from the committee, thank you to the exhibitors for a lovely entry.
Open /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
The Northern Border Terrier Club Open Show
5th Oct 2019
Judge: Mrs. L. Roberts (Mindlen)
I would like to thank the officers and committee for inviting me to judge their open show the hospitality was second to none. Thanks must also go to the efficient stewards and sporting exhibitors for their support would like to thank the officers and committee for inviting me to judge their open show the hospitality was second to none. Thanks must also go to the efficient stewards and sporting exhibitors for their support
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Placing Critique
Lovely head and expression. Nicely balanced body spans ok. Coat just coming through but good pelt. Moved ok
Northern Counties Sporting Terrier Association Open Show
13th Oct 2019
Judge: Mrs Julie Green (Breckgreen) & Mrs Sue Baxter (Mysulan)
*Judge Dogs: Julie Green (Breckgreen & Stowthorney)*
Firstly, I would like to thank Gill Griffiths and the committee for asking me to judge border terrier dogs at their fantastically well-run show for Northern Sporting Terrier Association. Also, to wish Arthur Cuthbertson a well earnt retirement as Chairman and Show Manager of this lovely show. Secondly, I would like to thank the exhibitors for my fantastic entry of border terriers.
*Judge Bitches Sue Baxter (mySulan)*
Firstly may I say a thank you to the committee for the kind invitation to judge , also the great food and hospitality received on the day . A hearty thank you to all the exhibitors for the super entry, providing me with the opportunity to go over some lovely dogs, also for the sporting way that my decisions were accepted. I am happy to say that all the bitches were easily spannable and there was only one that presented with a less than perfect scissor bite. No kinked tails were found and the overall quality was high. In all of the classes the decisions were very close and on another day placings could possibly change. Thank you again, I thoroughly enjoyed the day
In the final challenge for BOB, after taking a few minutes to discuss with fellow judge, Julia Green the merits of both the lovely specimens before us it was agreed that we call upon the services of the referee judge ( B.I.S judge Mr. R. Garbutt ..Aireview...) who made the decision that the dog was to be awarded Best of Breed and the bitch Best of Opposite. Well done to all the exhibitors....
Open - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
The Border Terrier Club Open Show
19th Oct 2019
Judge: Miss Katie Hamilton (Cromlechs)
Firstly I would like to thank The Border Terrier Club for giving me the honour of judging the open show at Low Hesket, with this show and venue being very memorable from a young age I was delighted and privileged to accept the invitation to judge the show. A huge thank you goes to my two stewards on the day who kept my ring moving smoothly, also appreciation goes to the club as a whole for the great hospitality shown. The standard of the exhibits on the day was overall pleasing with quality of bitches slightly outweighing the dogs, many thanks to all exhibitors for giving me the chance to go over their dogs and making my day such a pleasure.
Open - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Placing Critique
Grizzle bitch with many of the same aspects as winner but short of coat today, nice head with good skull and muzzle, narrow throughout with well laid back rib, neat feet and carrot tail well set on.
Selby Canine Society Open Show
26th Oct 2019
Judge: Dogs: Dr. M. Armstrong (Ploughdown) Bitches: Mrs. J. Carr (Wreighaugh)
Saturday was a very rainy day but the inhospitable weather outside contrasted sharply with the friendly atmosphere in the hall and the very warm welcome from committee members. I’d like to thank the exhibitors for braving the awful weather to come to the show, for their very good entry and their sporting spirit. I’d also like to thank the committee for inviting me to judge on the day and my stewards who organised the ring with great efficiency, courtesy and good humour.
Dr Margaret Armstrong
Thank you to the Committee for inviting me to judge the Border Terrier bitches at this very friendly, hospitable and well run Open Show. Thanks also to my stewards who were a great support. I was very grateful to the exhibitors for giving me a lovely entry of bitches and for the sporting way in which they accepted my, often difficult, decisions. I was pleased that my fellow Border judge, Dr Margaret Armstrong, and I were able to agree on both Best of Breed and Best Puppy in Breed without reference to our referee.
Judy Carr
Open - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
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.
Limit - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
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.
Mid Limit - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Limited Show
26th Jan 2020
Judge: Mrs J Carr (Wreighaugh)
I’d like to thank the Committee for their invitation to judge this show. As always it was very well organised and there was a very hospitable welcome. Thanks to my steward who kept things moving along. Thank you also to the exhibitors for the excellent entry and, despite a few absentees, I had some lovely Borders to go over. Coats were very varied; mouths were good and there were no kinked tails. Thank you to all the exhibitors and spectators who came and supported the show and created such a good atmosphere.
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Placing Critique
4 year old grizzle. Typical head with moderately broad skull, good dentition and correct ear set. She has good shoulders and has a nice straight front. Good rib, easily spannable, and strong loin. She has a nice tail set and rear angulation. Good coat and pelt and she moved steadily around the ring.
Cumberland CA Open Show
2nd Feb 2020
Judge: Darren Pearson (Winoski)
Open /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Placing Critique
Good in head and dentition, good in coat and pelt, clean front, good rear angulation, moved well.
The Border Terrier Club Open Show
22nd Feb 2020
Judge: Anne Speake
I would like to take this opportunity to thank the officers and committee for inviting me to judge the first of their centenary shows this year and for their warm welcome and hospitality. Thank you to my two stewards, Judy Carr and Judith Fawcett who had the ring running like clockwork, which enabled me to get on with the job of judging a large quality entry. Thank you to all the exhibitors for giving me such a wonderful entry of 143 dogs, sadly the serve flooding at the time made for several absentees, but I’d like to thank everyone who braved the floods and made the journey. This was my first breed club appointment, which was a truly memorable experience and one I won’t forget. Thank you for the lovely gifts which I will treasure. I was generally very pleased with the overall quality of the dogs entered under me. Coats were at varying stages, and some dogs paid the price today. The quality in some classes made for some difficult decisions, especially in the limit/open classes, and I would have liked more first places.
Open - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Northern Counties Sporting Terrier Club Open Show
16th Oct 2021
Judge: Mr M. & Mrs V Atkinson (Raedwulf)
Mr Mark Atkinson (Raedwulf) I’ve been looking forward to the opportunity of judging at the NCSTA show. This is always a well run show with a dedicated committee and as ever the catering was second to none. Many thanks to my steward who remained in good spirits despite the constant chilly breeze. I was lucky to have the opportunity to spend some time with highly experienced Border Terrier Judges after judging my breed today which rounded off a fantastic day.
Mrs Valerie Atkinson (Raedwulf) Many thanks go to NCSTA for inviting me to judge my beloved Border Terriers following in the footsteps of many esteemed Border Terrier judges, of whom I much admire, who also began their early career judging at this show. As always a really well run show with a welcoming committee and the best of sporting atmosphere.
Open - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Championship Show
13th Nov 2021
Judge: Mr M Ord
Massive Thank You to The Officers & Committee for inviting me to judge your Championship Show today. This club I was a member of in the formative years and have fond memories of the very first Championship Show where I was an exhibitor. It is good to see a club go from strength to strength and the committee worked very hard to put on this event in what has been difficult times to plan ahead. Thank you everyone who entered today and I was honoured with an entry of 150 Dogs, 192 Entries & 0 NFCs. Like every show absentees were inevitable but I hope those present today took my decisions sportingly.
A few general observations on todays entry which are my thoughts and because I care so much for this lovely breed. Driving to the venue today was a perfect way to view the countryside where this breed was developed and all could see the rough terrain they would need to work in. It is essential you judge a breed with the work they were bred to do foremost in your mind and learn why they are built the way they were and why the breed standard exists. It is a dog show and we now want to see them clean, healthy and well presented but I was sad to see today several exhibits with very clear evidence of scissor work on the coats and not just on tidying feet etc. Please stop this trend NOW. Several were scissored from hip to hock, no need to do this & does nothing to enhance the dog. Good otter heads were not in abundance today and I witnessed a lot of fly away ears. We have always witnessed the odd one but today quite a number could be seen when the dog was in action & not always on youngsters either.
Coats as always were in various stages today but you must judge the dog on the day and find evidence of the correct texture and undercoat which is vital to stop the working dog getting wet through to the skin. Mouths were very good today as where tails which have thankfully improved greatly. Some exhibits in my opinion had lovely conformation however where far too big and long in leg. I though ribs were good with only a few that would be unable to be spanned with the average size hands. I did find today the bitches were more uniform for size so just need to work on the males not becoming big, leggy & heavy.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Placing Critique
broad in skull & strong jaw, liked her narrow front, nice body lines & in good double coat of correct texture, dense undercoat, carrot tail of correct length, moved steadily but a little apprehensively at times
Sunderland & DCS Premier Open Show
28th Nov 2021
Judge: Libby Tanton-Joy (Itsaso)
Post Graduate /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
The Yorkshire, Lancashire & Cheshire Border Terrier Club Open Show
29th Jan 2022
Judge: Miss K. Hamilton (Cromlechs)
Firstly I would like to thank the officers and committee of The Yorkshire, Lancashire & Cheshire Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge and showing a warming hospitality. Thanks also goes to my two stewards who made sure my day ran perfectly. A well ran show with a fabulous atmosphere and venue. Many thanks goes to all the exhibitors for allowing me to go over their dogs and making my day one to remember and thoroughly enjoyable. Bitches outweighed the dogs but I was happy with the overall quality on the day. I would say exhibits were presented well although some could benefit with some general canine care like nail clipping. The last few years haven’t been kind to the show world so let’s not forget that sportsmanship is vital in making the show and atmosphere what it is.
Limit - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
The Border Terrier Club Open Show
26th Feb 2022
Judge: Anna Duxbury (Ridgebow)
I would sincerely like to thank the Officers and Committee for inviting me to judge at this lovely well run show and for their kind hospitality on the day. Also for the lovely gifts received from the Club.
Many thanks also to my two stewards Judy and Marina, who were a great help and kept things running very smoothly.
I was extremely flattered by the wonderful entry and would like to thank each and every exhibitor for kindly allowing me to go over their dogs, and for their sportsmanship when accepting my decisions.
Coats, as always were very varied at this time of year, and some had to pay the penalty for not having enough topcoat. Nearly all dogs were spannable, all males were entire and dentition was good overall. I found I had some difficult decisions to make, and I was sorry I could not give more places.
Open - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
North & South Shields CS Open Show
5th Mar 2022
Judge: Mrs. V. Mann (Valger)
Graduate - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
The Northern Border Terrier Club Open Show
9th Apr 2022
Judge: Mr. Tim Ball (Kaitak)
A thoroughly enjoyable day and my thanks go to the officers and committee for their kind invitation to judge their well-run Open Show. I was delighted with the excellent entry and what a pleasure it was to spend a day with the Borders and their owners. There were some well-filled classes which gave me lots to think about and some decisions were extremely close. A lovely atmosphere prevailed and applause for the winners was consistent throughout.
Veteran - Dog or Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Placing Critique
7 yr old bitch of completely different type to the winner. Neck of moderate length, firm topline, correct ribbing, strong loin and tail of good set. Moderate breadth of skull, correct stop, dark eyes but would like a tad more fill below, ears of correct set and scissor bite. She has pleasing angulation both ends, stands straight on decent feet with correct width in front and is well-muscled in the rear with well let down hocks. Gaiting well enough all through. Not quite coat texture or pelt of winner. Well handled.
Sunderland & DCS Premier Open Show
15th May 2022
Judge: Mr R Wright (Borderexpress)
A big thank you to the committee/officers of the Sunderland & District Canine Society for asking me to judge the Border Terriers at today’s Premier Open Show. A lovely entry of 25 dogs so a big thank you to the exhibitors for supporting my entry today and presenting some really nice dogs.
Also a big thank you to my steward for the day, Mr Tom hall who kept not only my classes but all of the terrier ring for the day finishing off with the group.
Borders were first in the ring today so I had the chance to see all of the terrier classes develop during the morning and then pleased to see my Best Of Breed go Terrier Group 2 – well done.
A lovely friendly show well supported and being an outside event weather held and the sun shone for most of it. Thank you all again for a lovely day and your support -
Post Graduate /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Placing Critique
7 Y/O Grizzle & Tan bitch that was in super fit condition and a credit to the owners, set down in a nice tight jacket. Pleasing in head, shoulder/rib construction giving her a nice narrow look. Her movement was good front/rear but not quite as clean in her top line when stood.
The Scottish Kennel Club Championship Show
21st May 2022
Judge: Mrs G Vaughan (Holteal)
I would like to thank Scottish Border Terrier Kennel Club and committee for my invite to judge and award my 1st CC appointment,their hospitality and welcome was appreciated greatly for such a long trip from my home county of norfolk i thoroughly enjoyed my day judging and thanks to my 2 great stewards who kept my ring running smoothly.
To have an entry of 87 dogs I believe the 6th highest of the whole show with only 19 being absent on the day which is to be expected was a great honor for myself.
Coats as always were in many different stages,not always easy to target for every show entered,I found no major faults in any of my exhibits thankfully but some dogs lacking good thick pelts and a few longer and not so desirable longer tails. There were some closer choices between some dogs in the stronger classes.
Veteran - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Placing Critique
Lovely 7 year old bitch with a nice broad skull, good double coat with nice texture,correct tail set,moved ok.
Border Union Championship Show
19th Jun 2022
Judge: Mrs Jayne Alpe (Pipruda)
First of all I would like to thank the committee for the appointment, the exhibitors for their entry and my stewards for keeping my ring controlled which enabled me to finish judging well in time for the groups. Judy you can steward for me anytime thank you. I was thrilled that my BOB not only won the Terrier Group but went on to Best in Show, my BPIB was placed in the Puppy Group as was my BV in the Veteran Group. Due to COVID this is my first appointment since 2017 and I am pleased to say that I can see a vast improvement in movement since then but overall the quality in bitches was far superior to the dogs, I have large hands and spannability was in the minority in most dog classes. In the standard it says Essentially a Working Terrier, many would be unable to get down a hole let alone get out again!
Veteran - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Placing Critique
7 year old bitch, with good head, eye and bite, moved soundly.
The Northern Border Terrier Club 50th Championship Show
16th Jul 2022
Judge: Mr Euan Castel (Flutorum)
It was an honour to judge the Club’s 50th Championship Show at Bowburn. Many thanks to the Officers and committee for their kind invitation and warm welcome at the show. Thank you to my efficient stewards Graham Richardson and Mark Atkinson for keeping everything on track. Thankfully the show avoided the excessive temperatures of the heatwave and although still hot the hall remained comfortable for both dogs and exhibitors. Sincere thanks to all exhibitors for providing me with a lovely entry, it was a privilege to go over your dogs. I found an equal depth of quality in both dogs and bitches and very pleased with the final line-ups.
Veteran - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Wolsingham & Wear Valley Agricultural Society Open Show
4th Sep 2022
Judge: Tracey Anscombe (Orangebox)
Thank you to the committee for the invitation to judge at your show and providing the steward, Lesley. She was brilliant keeping the ring and me in order! The classes were supported by the Northern Border Terrier Club which I know is greatly appreciated and lovely rosettes provided. I believe that not only did we have the biggest terrier entry but the biggest breed entry in the show. Thank you to everyone who entered, I thoroughly enjoyed my day. The weather held and no umbrellas required resulting in a pleasant ringside atmosphere and lovely exhibits to judge giving me a lot to think about.
Limit /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Placing Critique
Can’t believe that this girl is a veteran, she out moved some of her younger competition today. She is of a nice size and still spannable although slightly rounder in rib now. True otter head with a correct bite. Presented in new coat just coming through with evidence of texture and pelt.
The Scottish Kennel Club (October Show)
1st Oct 2022
Judge: Mr G Richardson
I would like to thank the Scottish Kennel Club for offering me the chance to award C.Cs for the first time, thanks to their hospitality i had a very enjoyable experience . Thank you to the exhibitors for accepting my decisions in a sporting manner . Also thank you to my very efficient Steward on the day Judy Carr , with her experience she kept the day flowing excellently. Overall I was very pleased with the dogs placed on the day, generally there was a better quality bitch entry compared to dogs. Movement and wide fronts was an issue with some exhibits but generally ok. I was happy to see my B.P, take Puppy Group 2 and B.S.B.I.B. take S.B. Group 1 .
Best Veteran - Bitch
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Veteran - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Placing Critique
Typical otter head , correct bite with large teeth , narrow in front easily spanned with good length of rib , shown in tight harsh double jacket on a loose pelt , well angulated rear, moved well.
The Northern Border Terrier Club Open Show
8th Oct 2022
Judge: Mr R Brewster (Stowthorney)
I would like to thank the officers and committee of the Northern Border terrier club,
for inviting me to judge at this show. I considered this a great honour and privilege.
Many thanks to my two ring stewards Andrea Dixon and Mark Atkinson for keeping the ring running smoothly. I am immensely grateful to all of the exhibitors for a supper entry and the chance to go over so many lovely dogs and for taking my decisions with good sportsmanship. Some decisions could have been different on another day
In general, most were in tip top condition a few were a bit over weight.
Dentition was mostly good. I was happy on the whole with temperaments.
Veteran - Dog or Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
The Border Terrier Club Open Show
15th Oct 2022
Judge: Ms Julie Green (Breckgreen/Stowthorney)
I would like to thank the officers and committee for asking me to judge The Border Terrier Club Open Show at Low Hesket and big thank you for my lovely judge’s gifts. I would also like to thank my two stewards for the day, Judy Carr and Marina Flemming for doing a sterling job and keeping the ring running smoothly through the day. Thanks must go to the exhibitors for their fantastic entry and for excepting my decisions on the day. I had a lovely entry of borders who on whole were of good quality.
Veteran - Dog or Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Northern Counties Sporting Terrier Association Open Show
16th Oct 2022
Judge: Mrs M Wanless (Thorneyburn)
This was a last minute appointment for me, as Tina Jones had to stand down at the last moment owing to her Mothers serious illness.
What a super entry she had drawn!!! fifty one 1st entries and six repeats.
All dogs shown had good mouths, almost all had thick pelts and super harsh jackets.
All dogs were entire, and most were easily spanned.
Open - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Championship Show
12th Nov 2022
Judge: Mr Eddie Houston (Earthwise)
I won my first Crufts qualifier at this show 25 years ago and it has always been one of my favourites. It was an honour to be invited to judge and my thanks go to the Scottish Club for their hospitality. Thanks also to my very capable stewards Bill Shorthose and Judy Carr.My sincere thanks to all those who entered and allowed me the privilege of going over their dogs.
Today I found there to be a much greater depth of quality among the bitches with there being many promising puppies and some very nice animals in the upper classes,particularly limit and open. This depth of quality was not apparent in a number of the dog classes although I was pleased with my main winners.
As would be expected there was some diversity in size and type.A number of exhibits of both sexes were up to size- I have big hands so if I find them difficult to span they are probably too big. I found all males to be entire, no serious mouth faults and one kinked tail.Of most concern was the number of dogs with very poor front movement and the number with atypical heads; some too long in muzzle and a few where the muzzle was too short, the latter giving a rather cat like look. Coats and pelts were generally good and a few dogs would benefit from more exercise to improve their muscletone.A fairly minor fault, but one which detracts from the overall outline, were the dogs which carried their tails curled over their backs i.e “gay tailed” as opposed to carrying their tails gaily.
Some of these faults are aesthetic but others such as size and soundness are not and we should be mindful that our breed is “essentially a working terrier.”
Veteran - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Placing Critique
71/2 year old grizzle with feminine head and good mouth.Good for coat and pelt, narrow throughout and sound on the move but couldn’t match the winner.
Sunderland & DCS Open Show
27th Nov 2022
Judge: Mrs Sue Spafford (Dassett)
I would like to thank the officers and committee for the invitation to judge at this show. I would also like to thank my Steward, Linda Lyons for keeping the classes running smoothly and efficiently.
Open /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
The Border Terrier Club Open Show
25th Feb 2023
Judge: Mrs Julie Fletcher North (Northborders)
Firstly I would like to thank the Committee for my invite to judge my first Club show , also my 2 able stewards Judy and Kathy for keeping me and the ring in order , mostly I thank the exhibitors for their wonderful entry and allowing me to go over their beautiful dogs , I thoroughly enjoyed myself, I was really pleased with both my line ups , I loved all my main winners and look forward to following their futures
Veteran - Dog or Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Class Critique
Really enjoyed judging this class ,great to see so many Veterans still sound and spannable enjoying their day out
Northern Counties Sporting Terrier Association Group Open Show
26th Mar 2023
Judge: Anne Higham (Comberdown)
I would like to thank The Northern Border Terrier Club for nominating me and the committee of the Northern Counties Sporting Terrier Association for inviting me to judge at this wonderful friendly and hospitable show. Thank you to my two stewards who kept everything running smoothly and to the exhibitors for their entry and attendance on such a cold day.
I found all males entire and one level bite.
Open - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Placing Critique
8 year old grizzle & tan. Nice head with correct scissor bite. Moved ok and was in fit condition. Short of coat today.
National Terrier Club
1st Apr 2023
Judge: Miss Sarah Dandy (Dandale)
There was a good depth of quality overall across both sexes which proved for good competition and some very close decisions especially in the larger classes. Thank you to all those who accepted my decisions so sportingly. Temperaments were excellent especially the youngsters with the added challenge of the tannoy right overhead. There were some very promising youngsters which is always pleasing and positive to see, and I was delighted with my winning line up in both sexes, with top honours closely contested. I was disappointed that some exhibits who looked so good standing fell apart on the move, there were quite a few upright shoulders and I felt that efficient ground covering movement so essential for the breeds ability to follow a horse was somewhat lacking. It is encouraging to see quite a few younger handlers taking an interest in our breed today, so positive for the future. Thank you to both my excellent stewards who most competently kept the ring moving all day.
Veteran - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
The Scottish Kennel Club (May) Championship Show
21st May 2023
Judge: Mr Frank Kane (Hirontower)
Veteran - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Placing Critique
8 year old, flowing outline from good neck and shoulders, feminine head with good eye, not moving at her best today
Border Union Agricultural Society
17th Jun 2023
Judge: Mr Colin Girling (Benattivo)
I would like to thank the Officers and Committee for giving me the opportunity to judge Border Terriers in their spiritual home territory. My stewards, Audrey & Judith did a great job in running the class changes efficiently on a hot humid day. It was a lovely entry, with many exhibits that I had not judged before – thank you all. I found some exhibits which could have been better prepared with attention to coat, body condition and clean teeth. A few level bites a couple of kink tails influenced placings but all dogs were entire and overall a nice group of BT’s to go over. My main winners had breed qualities that outweighed any imperfection, that in my opinion wouldn’t impact on its ability to perform its traditional work.
Veteran - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Placing Critique
Also 8 years of age and doing well with deep double jacket, she moved well maintaining her top-line, just preferred the expression of my winner.
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.
Veteran - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Placing Critique
G&T. Very typey bitch in great shape for 8 years old. Handy size with a lovely otter like head, presented in thick tweedy coat and thick pelt. Moved and showed well.
East of England Agricultural Society
6th Jul 2023
Judge: Joyce Martin (Merumhor)
Many thanks to the officers and committee for the invitation to judge Border Terriers at the East of England Agricultural Society Show, which was to be the last one run by this society. It was a super venue with lovely big rings which gave the dogs a chance to stride out. Many thanks to my ring stewards Peter and Lesley Armstrong for keeping things running smoothly and efficiently. I was delighted with my entry of 109 dogs making a total entry of 149 and pleased with the overall quality of dogs shown. Thank you to the exhibitors for giving the chance to go over your dogs and for the sporting way the placings were taken. It is indeed a privilege to have the opportunity do so. I was thrilled to be able to watch the terrier group and see my BOB - Stineval Lambert JW take group 1 in a quality line up. I also was delighted to hear that my BPIB - Glebeheath Ophelia went Group 3 in the Puppy Group.
Veteran - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Placing Critique
A 8 year old grizzle bitch with a pleasing head, not as strong as winner. A nice balanced bitch shown today in a super wire coat. Moved well.
The Scottish Kennel Club
1st Oct 2023
Judge: Mr M Armstrong (Bitcon)
Veteran - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
The Terrier Club of Scotland
15th Oct 2023
Judge: Mr Keith Baldwin (Nightstorm)
Best Veteran
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Veteran - Dog or Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Selby Canine Society Open Show
28th Oct 2023
Judge: Jill Young (Chadbrook)
Open /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Championship Show
11th Nov 2023
Judge: Mr Mark Lowry (Ravenside)
Firstly, I would like to thank everyone for a lovely entry and also to the Scottish BTC for this opportunity. Special thanks go to my two stewards for the day who kept everything running smoothly and for their good company. Although the lighting in the hall isn’t the best, it was adequate and the large square ring was perfect for watching movement, something I feel is very important in a border terrier. On that note I found my main winners to excel in this department. I was pleased to judge some strong puppy classes and also some strong adult classes
Veteran - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
The Sporting Terrier Association of Yorkshire Open Show
12th Nov 2023
Judge: Sarah Pateman (Lessien)
Open /
Second Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
East Anglia Border Terrier Club Open Show
18th Nov 2023
Judge: Libby Tanton-Joy (Itsaso)
I would like to thank the committee for inviting me to Judge their Open show, and all exhibitors that entered. I had a lovely entry with some quality dogs to go over. All placing’s were accepted with grace. Many thanks to both my stewards who kept the ring moving. The show had a lovely atmosphere and I enjoyed my day
Veteran - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
Northern Dog Club Open Show
27th Jan 2024
Judge: Mrs M Fleming (Flegato)
Thank you to the Committee for inviting me to judge at this very well run and friendly show. There could not have been a better first time appointment. Thank you to the ring stewards who organised the ring and paperwork in the most efficient manner and made it very easy for me. And finally, thank you to all the exhibitors who entered and who were able to come and bring their dogs – it was a privilege for me to go over them.
Post Graduate /
Third Place
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Members Limited Show
28th Jan 2024
Judge: Mr. P. Appleby (Hollexby)
Firstly I would like to thank the committee for inviting me to judge this show, it was an honour and a privilege, secondly thank you to the exhibitors for entering a lovely selection of dogs for me to go over, and lastly but not leastly to my Stewards, Liz Barret and Val Mason for keeping me right.
Veteran - Dog or Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Otterpaws Firebird ShCM
