A Glorious day in the village of Sissinghurst played host to the long running annual dog show once again over the bank holiday. Reputedly running for over 100 years the event attracts pooch lovers from all over Kent seeking plaudits for their furry friends.
Welcomed back after a successful inaugural stint at Judging the show last year was local MP Helen Grant, a border terrier owner and general dog enthusiast.
Classes included best male, best female, best cross-breed, best junior handler, best rescue, prettiest eyes, best oldie and the dog the judge would most like to take home. There were winners from Lamberhurst, Biddenden and Rolvenden as well as closer to home in Sissinghurst and Golford. Master of ceremonies was the eloquent Brian Clifford who kept proceedings moving with his characteristically brisk humour.
Helen said ‘the show is a delight and not just for its hounds – the surrounding stalls and attractions in the fete are always varied and fun too, this year featuring performances from the excellent vocalist Victoria Bass. There were equally varied entrants to the dog show and the parading and decision making was a tough job for all of us, especially under such a hot sun. In the end we found winners for all categories and I especially applaud Ramona Nisbet from Golford with ‘Daisy’ - a 12 week old English Springer Spaniel and winner of three different classes, including ‘doggy the judge would most like to take home.’
After the competition Ramona said ‘“The dog show is such a lovely event. Daisy and I had a great time. It was a very hot afternoon but all the dogs did so well. We will be back next year!”
Chair of the organising committee and local Councillor Andy Fairweather said ‘It was another hugely successful fete despite the 32degrees heat which did affect dog show entry numbers.
As for next year – we are seeking some new talent and if a willing chairman is forthcoming I will certainly sit on the committee to assist the transition and hand over. Some of the current volunteer committee have been organisers for over 20 years, myself for 14 and the last 6 as Chairman. We need to hand the reigns to a new group and I hope some younger families will step up. If anyone is interested please contact me on 07976290185 or e mail [email protected]’
