THE GUERNSEY KENNEL CLUB

Junior Handing, judged by Peter, was won by Stephanie Le Noury (6-11 years) and Natalie de la Cour (12-16 years). Brian did a wonderful job judging the numerous Match entries, while Peter kept up a fascinating, non-stop commentary - click here for the Match results. The winners went home with an array of gifts and samples from sponsors (Nutro, James Wellbeloved, Naturediet, Science Diet), certificates and rosettes to 5th place.

When all was over Peter was presented with a Newfoundland print and Brian with a decanter together with his favourite wine.

The day came to a close with a relaxing evening dinner - a fitting end to a successful day. The President thanked the exhibitors, praised the quality and professionalism of the stands and commented on the friendly atmosphere.

Brian Cummins enjoyed his day, and Peter said he was looking forward to a return visit in a couple of years, should he be invited!

They say that the first time is the best . . . well, not this time: on Sunday, 9th October 2005, The Guernsey Dog Club organised its second, very successful Discover Dogs Exhibition and Match. Peter Purves again commentated on the parades and judged the stands, and for the first time this year, judged Junior Handling and commentated on the Match. Brian Cummins, President of The Kennel Club of Jersey, judged the Match - we were especially pleased to see him after his recent stay in hospital.

There had been groans all round when we head that the stands would have to be set up on the morning of the event, but Beau Sejour staff had set out the ring carpets and chairs, the display boards and partitions started arriving at 7.00am and the Discover Dogs Committee turned up more or less bright eyed and bushy tailed, having been out for a meal with Peter the evening before. There was a flurry of little panics: 'Where's the sellotape?', 'Does anyone have scissors?', 'Where do we hang this banner?' and most important of all, 'Is the café open yet?', but by 9.45am the stands were ready and spectators were arriving eager to see all.

It was standing room only at the ringside for the parades, and even the dogs seemed to enjoy the occasion. Some were now retired from the show ring, but they all seemed to revel in the attention from the public. There was much interest from spectators, and it was especially pleasing that such a large number of children were there and asking questions.

From the many excellent stands, Peter chose Mandy and Natalie de la Cour's Shih Tzu stand as the best, and his runner-up was Georgina Bennett's Rottweiler stand. The Guide Dogs for the Blind stand did a roaring trade in various fund raising items; the Club's Honorary Vet's surgery stand generated much interest; and a representative of Nutro was available to answer questions and hand out samples. Those manning the Club stand were in demand explaining what dog shows are all about, answering questions about other breeds and generally helping where possible. Many people took the opportunity of looking through the Club's history, and others were interested in the Registration Department, the Registrar being on hand to explain all.