First Place in Veteran - Dog, Judge: Mrs Melanie Lewis
It was a privilege to have the opportunity to judge the breed again and I thank the exhibitors for a very nice entry. Thanks also to the Officers and Committee for their invitation and hospitality and to my two extremely capable stewards Mr. Mike Hughes and Mr. Tony Coddington for their very helpful assistance in ensuring the smooth running of the ring on the day.
Coats, as one would expect with the ever changing weather conditions, varied considerably but I applaud those who presented their exhibits with the correct double jacket. Of concern were one or two undesirable single jackets. There has been a trend in recent years by some exhibitors to present dogs short of coat, but they normally displayed sufficient evidence of a correct texture. The Border is not a trimmed terrier and long may it remain as such. Scissor marks also are so undesirable and detracts from the overall appearance. There was a variation in size but I was able to span the majority. Mouths on the whole were good but there were a number with small teeth in overcrowded jaws, certainly not what is required in a working terrier.
Front movement in particular is still a cause for concern and is something that I have previously highlighted. Feet were generally good and all exhibits displayed excellent temperament whilst being judged. When it came to the more senior classes in particular, I had some very difficult decisions such was the depth of quality.
b/t, presented in a fit and hard condition with an excellent jacket, good head and expression, nicely proportioned bodylines, moved positively and with enthusiasm on firmly padded feet.