First Place in Open - Bitch, Judge: Mr D E Fryer (Irton)
Thanks to my two highly efficient stewards who, whilst never obtrusive, always had everything in the right place and ensured that I could get on with judging the dogs efficiently and smoothly.
A very pleasing entry, many classes had winning quality beyond the number of cards available. I found no missing teeth, no serious mouth faults, and all males were entire. Coats were variable; ranging from several in profuse double coat (not a problem if still of good weatherproof quality); to some who had only undercoat and a few who had adequate top coat but completely lacked undercoat (both incorrect and adversely affecting placings). There were a number of very smartly prepared and presented terriers on show; but however smart and showy a terrier may be, as ‘essentially a working terrier’ it must be ‘capable of following a horse, combining activity with gameness’ in order to be a BORDER Terrier. Too many exhibits were deficient in shoulder construction, front movement and drive.
A very smart red grizzle bitch, looked a little upright in front, but not so when handled, good legs and feet, strong head and correct keen expression. Harsh, tight coat, well laid shoulder, ribbed well back, pleasing outline. Showing and shown to perfection, moved soundly and positively and could not stand wrong . By a close margin, took BCC by virtue of stronger head and better bone. BOB, and pleased to see, TG4.