First Place in Open - Dog, Judge: Siân McKay (Redesholt)
Firstly, my thanks, as ever, goes to the committee and helpers of the shows whose efforts cannot be underestimated. Today it was the turn of Yeovil and District Canine Society whose sterling efforts despite the persistent and often heavy downpour,resulted in a well-run show with ever helpful and smiling faces- Bravo! Secondly my appreciation to Jan Russell de Clifford whose stalwart efforts as steward in our ring for the whole (freezing) day resulted in an efficient and well run ring. My thanks must also go to the exhibitors who primarily turned up on the most inclement of days, and accepted my decisions with good grace and not a little humour as the heavens opened.
The wind and rain did influence the performance of many of the exhibits unfortunately; but some rose to the challenge, and several were simply oblivious to it. Coats, as ever, were in various stages of growth; some great movement noted in many of the exhibits; all teeth clean and with correct bites and no kinked tails to note; feet on the whole were tidy and correct.
A 5-year-old grizzle and tan dog who, by the time he entered the ring, the rain was bouncing off the ground, and this boy powered through with great reach, drive and purpose
oblivious to the precipitation. He has a superb otter like head with gentle expression, minimal stop, correct proportions- in my opinion, and large teeth under a strong muzzle. He has a good reach of neck into well placed shoulders, good bone, narrow throughout with ribs well- back and a strong loin making a level top line and good underline. As required -racy hindquarters. A fit dog with great pelt and coat, I was pleased to award him B.O.B today.