First Place in Special Beginners - Dog, Judge: Mrs Margaret Sneddon (Kersfell)
Thank you to the Committee for the invitation to judge at this show; I had received an invitation to judge the breed here in 2007 but was unable to accept due to a previous appointment so was very pleased to be offered the opportunity again. Thanks to my stewards for all their hard work during the day and also to the exhibitors for entering some lovely Border Terriers. There were some wonderful quality exhibits but I was particularly pleased with my line-up of unbeaten bitches with 4 or 5 in contention for the top honours, a very difficult but enjoyable decision.
It is 50 years since I won my first CC in the breed and at that time it was emphasised to novices by the experienced exhibitors that the most important part of the breed standard was the first line “essentially a working terrier” and I have always had this at the forefront in my mind when judging the breed. Not, does it work, but could it do so; meaning could it follow a horse and go to ground when needed; also could it get out again.
up to size blue and tan with a good head and expression, straight front and good legs and feet. Nice lay of shoulder, level topline, very good coat and pelt. Moved soundly, striding out very freely. Winner also of PGD and BSB. Pleased to see won Special Beginners Terrier Group – congratulations.