First Place in Limit - Bitch, Judge: Mr Colin Girling (Benattivo)
I had the most enjoyable experience from the first to last minute of my judging day, the Northern hospitality from all was exceptional and I thank the Committee for giving me such a great opportunity. The quality and depth in some classes was a real treat for me to discover on judging ‘up north’ for the first time. Thanks to my stewards who helped keep everything managed practically perfect throughout the day. I enjoyed the lunch and my gift is displayed in pride of place on the mantle. Thank you all for trusting me to take on such a wonderful show.
A couple of untidy mouths, some unclean teeth but bites generally good. Found a dog and a bitch with kinks and there were a few thin pelts. Overall however I found good quality in the majority, good heads and expressions are essential but I especially like to see a dog moving forwards with drive, not pulling but setting off to get somewhere. I believe a working terrier needs good tight feet and thick pads to be able to meet the standard, most feet were good although I observed some long claws which do not help.
A real pleasure to go over and discover a well laid back rib under her full but harsh double jacket, slightly longer in body than some she maintained her topline when on the move. Dark nose and eyes completed what was for me a super otter like head which was the best of the day. Tight cat like feet and thick pads are necessary attributes for a day’s activity, whatever the ‘terrier terrain’ and she excelled here too. This combined with her fitness and condition allowed her to move with drive, never putting a foot wrong, it gave me great pleasure to award her Best in Show.