First Place in Open - Dog, Judge: Mrs Jill Stevens (Cobstoneway)
I would like to thank the committee for giving me the honour of judging at this lovely show, and for the warm welcome and hospitality shown on the day. Special thanks go to the Show Secretary Kathy Wilkinson, my two efficient stewards Liz Barrett and Judy Carr, and Carol Mackenzie for a lovely lunch. Most of all I would like to say a very big thank you to all the exhibitors for giving me such a lovely entry, and for allowing me the privilege of going over their dogs. The depth of quality in some classes, particularly the bitches, meant that I truly wished for more top places to give out. However, I was very pleased with my main winners, who all looked as though they could manage a day’s work. Most exhibits were in hard, fit condition and well turned out. All dogs were entire, I found just a couple of kinked tails, and, understandably, there were a few missing/misplaced teeth in the veteran class. Coats were at various stages, as to be expected, and this had to affect a few places as it is not only a necessity on a working terrier, but completes the picture. I was pleased to have some very promising puppies, and at the other end of the scale a wonderful class of veterans.
This good looking grizzle and tan boy caught my eye as soon as he entered the ring, and didn’t disappoint. He has a lovely, ottery , masculine head with a broad muzzle and strong jaw containing big teeth in a good scissor bite. His front is straight and narrow, he has the right amount of bone, and stands on neat, well padded feet. His shoulders are well constructed and his ribs are narrow and carried well back. I thought initially that he looked slightly deep in the brisket, but with hands on it turned out to be long hair and he actually spanned well. He has good angulation front and rear, with a good length of upper arm and well constructed, well muscled hind quarters giving him the required reach and drive to move economically and follow a horse all day. He has a loose, thick, pliable pelt, adequate undercoat and harsh new topcoat, and holds a level topline with good tailset. He moved accurately but perhaps just lacked a little enthusiasm whilst challenging for top honours. Nevertheless, I was happy to award him Best Dog.