Second Place in Open - Dog, Judge: Mr David Shields (Wilholme)
To judge Border Terriers at Crufts was both a privilege and a honour and I must thank the Crufts Committee for the appointment to judge the breed at what is the greatest dog show in the world. A big thanks go to the exhibitors from both home and abroad for such a super entry which made for a great days judging with quality in depth in many of the classes. Finally I must thank my two stewards who kept things moving in the ring to allow me to finish judging in good time.
On the day I was looking for a workmanlike dog as the standard asks for but one also must remember that in the show ring you also need that attitude and showmanship to complete the picture. I felt my BOB put up a great show in the Group and was so pleased to see him take Group 2 in a quality line up.
Another quality Border Terrier out of the top draw. Judged him as a puppy, liked him then and so pleased to see how he has developed and fulfilled those early expectations. Another who to me is the correct size and is well built throughout and handles so well when you go over him. Balanced head, so typical with the neatest of ears and an alert expression. Excellent legs and feet, clean front, firm body of pleasing length and the best of quarters. His presentation is second to none and on the day was in the best of coats. Moved well on a ground covering stride, Res.CC.