SuSSex Spaniel aSSociation

newS and viewS - Summer 2012

dateS for your diary 2012

august4th: National Gundog show5th: Paignton show, Devon11th: Bournmouth show19th: Welsh Kennel show

25th: Scottish Kennel show

September2nd: City of Birmingham show

9th: Richmond show16th: Darlington show

21st: Driffield show22nd: SSA Champ show

october16th: SSA Breed Seminar14th: South Wales Show

tBc: Clumber, Sussex, Field Spaniel Match, Berkshire17th: Gundog Society of Wales show

27th: Midland Counties show

november10th/11th: Discover dogs, Earls Court 1, London

17th: SSA Field TrialGundog breeds of Scotland

december16th: LKA

for show information please visit the following websites:

• www.fossedata.co.uk• www.highampress.co.uk

• www.sussexspaniels.org.uk• www.thekennelclub.org.uk

Other useful sites

• www.champdogs.co.uk• www.unitedspaniel.com

• www.british-heritage-dog-breeds.co.uk

SSa newS and viewSSummer 2012

Sadly, this is my final contribution to the newsletter as editor. It has been a very hard decision but with full time work and a family to take care of, something had to give.

I would like to say a big thank you to all members who have sent in items over the past few years. I have thoroughly enjoyed creating the newsletter and putting my previous working experiences in editing and design into practice again!

Anyone interested in taking over the newsletter should speak to Sheila or any other committee member. The next deadline is the end of December so there is a little time to find someone to take over the task!

The Summer newsletter contains all the usuals as well as a few extra articles which maybe of interest.

Chris Hasting’s will be our judge this year at the Sussex Championship show and a piece of Chris’ interest in the breed and timeline is written a little further on.

John and Pat Perkins have agreed to take part in the breeder’s profile in this issue which also makes for interesting reading.

The fun weekend was a great success and Vicky Watts has kindly written a piece on the eventful couple of days!

Not to be outdone, Chris Wakefield has also sent in a piece for us on the Yorkshire Game fair held in May this year.

More SSA events will be advertised on the website or facebook and I hope to see some of you in the very near future at one of our well organised and friendly atmospheric days out!

We are very fortunate that most of the events planned for this year have gone ahead despite the terrible weather. Things are suppose to be looking up though, and for those wishing to go on holiday, there are quite a few dog friendly cottages available one of which is advertised in the news in brief area.

Finally, a big well done to the show goers who have made show champions this year. Its been a very successful year so far.

Thank you for your continued contributions, help and support with the newsletter - enjoy.

Kelly

Kelly Jefferies - Kelly.jefferies@hotmail.com

*The front cover picture is from*

disclaimer: “The views expressed in this Newsletter are not necessarily those of the SSA or its officers and committee.”

Secretary’S letter

Once again there is lots of news and interesting information for you to enjoy.

As many of you know I have not quite had my eye on my job for a few weeks as we (John and I) had puppies to look after. We were delighted to learn that there were other litters born about the same time, so lots of Sussex puppies. Fortunately there have been enough good homes available. A couple of months later and it’s been really good fun seeing all these new puppies in their new homes on the SSA Facebook page; many daily updates and we forget the rain outside. Puppies registered for the first quarter 2012 were 29 though these were all born last quarter of 2011. I believe there are about 25 for the 2nd quarter this year (April-June).

I’ve missed a few of the Shows and I understand there was cold, wet weather at WELKS but a cheerful and strong Sussex contingent took part – such stoics, like the dogs! We’ve had lower entries since then and this could well be down to choice of judges by the Societies. Plus people being more careful where they spend their entry fees. Hopefully the entries will pick up soon and later this year the new puppies from the early summer litters will be out and about at the Shows. Enclosed is the Ch Show schedule and we hope you will support your Club Show, non-showing folk are most welcome too. Please send your entries in by the deadline as it makes my job so much easier. The judge is Chris Hastings (Bardings) who is a breed specialist judge and well known within the show and working world. Together with his wife they have been in the breed since the 1980’s.

Further on there are reports of the Fun Weekend and ‘Sussex at the Sussex’, both very popular events for everyone. Thank you to Grace Brown for taking on the work of organising the Fun Weekend, although as you know she was unable to enjoy the rewards due to a fall resulting in a fractured ankle. Then next day she had a trip to the hospital which put paid to the weekend for her. Our grateful thanks to Anthony & Vicky Watts, for opening up their lovely home and grounds to our members and their dogs. They did a great job of taking care of everyone over the weekend. I’m told that it was huge success and all want to go back again next time.

As you will have read from your Editor, pressure of work means Kelly is retiring from editing the Newsletter and this is her last contribution. We would like to thank Kelly Jefferies for consistently producing a good quality newsletter over several years, full of interesting news and articles. If anyone would like to take on the job of editing the Newsletter please let me or one of the Committee know. This person needs to be someone who is used to computers and can set up the Newsletter in a PDF document file ready for printing. We’ve considered the idea of making the newsletter available via the SSA website. An online newsletter would certainly save us a lot in postage and this idea has already been tried out by other Clubs. John A is working on a Members area for the Website. Those folk without email would need to contact me and I could then send a hard copy by mail.

You’ll find enclosed your copy of the 2012 Breed Health Survey form. The Kennel Club request that we have regular Health Survey’s and our last one was 2009. Please do fill this in and send to Ann Moon our Health Co-ordinator, by the deadline end of October.

Even if you have little to report it should go on the survey and we’re hoping for the usual good response from our Members.

We have a Breed Seminar for judges 16th October with Sally Leslie as the presenter. This is now fully booked and please contact Kay Kenyon if you wish to go on a Reserve List.

Your copy of the Biennial Book is enclosed and doesn’t it look great with the colour photos. It’s a huge job and thank you to Kelly Jefferies who bravely took on this task and sorted out all the pages and photos. She produced a unique and attractive cover and I know this will be a lovely surprise for Jeremy when he gets his copy.

Vicky Watts is now in charge of the Club Shop, so all enquiries should go to her for the SSA Calendar 2013 and other merchandise, her details are on the SSA Website. Many thanks to Katherine Edge for setting up and organising the 2013 calendar for us. She will do this again next year, so start sending your special Sussex pictures to her. Don’t forget to send photos big size and they should be clear and of good quality too.

Helen Boniface is our new main Rescue Co-ordinator and she has already been hard at work. Helen retired last year from her job as a mid-wife and her skills at handling people work to her advantage. She’s a happy friendly person who we all love and we thank her for taking on this difficult job. Her contact details are on the website along with rescue co-ordinators, Kay Kenyon, Ann Moon and Dusty Miller in Scotland.

On the working side Bill Cadwell has working events to report on and these have gone well with people keen to take part. Many thanks to Bill and the Cadwell Team. Their dedication to the working side is very much appreciated. Once again Sally and Kat with their Sussex Spaniels, will be at Discover Dogs at Earls Court London, 10th and 11th November; please do go along and meet up with them.

Jeremy has been asked to make a dog coat in new Sussex Tweed for Battersea Dogs Home fashion show at their Annual Ball; there may be a small few extra ones made and we hope they may come our way to be auctioned at a later date.

Wishing all our members the very best and I hope we’ll see you all out and about enjoying life with your Sussex.

Sheila ApplebyHonorary Secretarywww.sussexspaniels.org.uk secretary@sussexspaniels.org.uk

preSentation of the SuSSex Spaniel(Daphne Bailey)

I wrote a piece on presentation in the 2010 Biennial and really I cannot find much to update. Although there is a lot more new equipment, much of this is not needed on the Sussex coat. I’m sure many will pick me up on this, but our breed shouldn’t be over trimmed. We all have our little ways of doing things and a lot depends on the coat type.Preparing a Sussex spaniel for a show is not a difficult task provided you adopt a methodical approach and your dog is not left for months without any attention.

It is best to get a puppy used to being placed on a table and given a gentle brush and comb. Don’t mess about with it for too long and always be firm. It is never too early to start. Usually the puppy will start to lose its coat at 8-12 months, but there are no definite rules about this. With some dogs the coat will just groom out, with others it may be necessary to strip it out. Do not try to clip the coat, hand stripping although time consuming is the only method of achieving a presentable appearance. I find the rubber finger tips very good. Any dead fluffy hair should be plucked out, not as some people may think left for ‘golden glints’. It is usually the case that dogs with the best coat colour and texture live out of doors.

The general appearance of the Sussex Spaniel for the show should be neat, tidy with a clean outline and you should work towards this aim when preparing your dog. It should not be over trimmed. A chopped or barbered coat will only give an artificial effect. I have noticed some dogs in the ring with the head stripped clean and also the ears trimmed down like Cockers, this is not right for our breed. Excessive feathering will also destroy a clean outline.

The diagrams show the main areas where improvements should be made. It is best to strip a week prior to the show then just tidy up the day before. It is not always necessary to bath the dog but if you do then rough trim first, bath, then finish off after. Do not bath your dog the evening before the show or you will have tufts of hair sticking out all over the place. This may however be avoided if a towel is placed around the dog’s body when it’s being dried and fastened together with large safety pins or you could buy a net coat which is ideal for drying the body coat. As a routine, your dog should be brushed and combed daily, ears should be cleaned out once a week; any hair inside the ears should be pulled out with a pair of flat ended tweezers. Drops can be put in the ears if necessary.

Teeth should not need a lot of attention when the dog is young provided its diet is satisfactory; when it gets older they may need scaling.

Remember if you know the fault of your dog then by careful trimming and good presentation these CAN be made less noticeable, so make the most of what you have got!

We now have an undocked tail: The Standard says set low and moderately feathered. In the diagram, I have given a rough guide. Trim fairly short near the base and blend into the longer feathering thinning and tidy in towards the tip (similar to a Setter’s).

equipmentPair of straight scissors 7-8”Pair of Thinning ScissorsRubber finger tipsTweezersMoulting CombNail cutterPair of curved scissors‘ Coat King’, medium & coarse which can be used where the coat is verythick (neck and shoulders).Stripping knife – medium and coarseStripping stoneMedium and fine tooth combGrooming gloveGood insecticidal shampooDog dryerGrooming sprays if needed – be careful as coats can be tested at Shows

This is only a rough guide and a practical demonstration is always much better

worKing report

Many events have been organised this year to encourage more handlers/owners to work their beloved minor breed spaniels.

I have been fortunate enough to have lots of help sourcing ground recently. Many thanks to Kat Edge and Andy Jesson for finding the lovely grounds used for our training weekends held recently.

So far, we have held two training days on dummies with restricted numbers. The plan is to hold a training day later on in the year on game. If anyone is interested, please contact me.

A field trial is also planned and we have verbal confirmation of the 13th October at a new ground - more information will be available once I have written confirmation and it will be advertised on the website and facebook.

On a different note, there seems to be some confusion to what is required when competing in the field. I have written below a brief description of what type or training or competitions are available as well as what is involved. If you have any questions regarding this, please see me at one of our SSA events or call or email me - I am always on hand to provide guidance!

The Kennel Club Good Citizens dog scheme

Training classes are regularly run in all parts of the UK, please contact the kennel club to find your closest one!

Puppy Foundation - The Puppy Foundation Award specialises in training owners to train their puppies. Depending on the individual club, enrolment can take place from the time your puppy is 8 weeks of age. There is no minimum training standard required, as long as the puppy is under 12 months of age when the course is completed.

Bronze - The Bronze Award aims to produce a dog that will walk and behave in a controlled manner. It is a basic standard that all adult dogs can achieve with correct handling. Owners must show that they have means of picking up after their dog and that their dog is wearing a lead and collar with name and the address of the owner inscribed on the collar/disc to take part.

Silver - The Silver Award aims to build on the skills learned in the Bronze award whilst increasing the level of difficulty. It is a natural progression of practical dog training skills and introduces new concepts such as greeting a friend, vehicle control and a road walking exercise which are vital in everyday life situations.

Gold - The Gold Award is the highest level of achievement within the Scheme awards. It builds upon the skills learnt in the Silver Award and develops more advance training skills of the dog and handler. The Gold Award introduces new concepts such as sending a dog to Bed, Relaxed Isolation, an Emergency Stop and Heelwork off the lead, all of which provide greater understanding and control.

Responsibility & Care - Accompanies all levels of the Scheme and educates owners about responsibilities to their dog and the community.

Getting into field competitionsThe general purpose of our Sussex Spaniels is to hunt and find game and then retrieve it to hand undamaged. There are many types of assessments, test and trials at competition level which enables us to show case our spaniels capabilities.

As a minor breed, we have special events where only minor breeds can take part. Once you progress further, there are possibilities to compete with the any variety spaniels, the likes of your cockers and springers!

Without getting ahead of ourselves, lets start with the basics!

Working Assessment - A working assessment is exactly what is says on the tin! It is a day where you can be assessed against other dogs of the same abilities in practice for the next stage which is a working test. The assessments are usually run with two judges one dog under each judge running side by side.

Working TestGundog Working Tests, usually held outside the Shooting season are competitions that simulate a day’s shooting in the field using a variety of “dummies” which seek to assess, without game being shot, the working abilities of gundogs. A working test normally has three classes, Puppy, Novice and Open.

Working Gundog CertificateThe WGC is open to all Kennel Club registered gundogs and their handlers. It is not a competition, but each handler/dog partnership is assessed against a set of criteria which is set down in the handbook.

The Aim - The aim of the Working Gundog Certificate (WGC) is to provide credible proof that the handler and dog are a competent partnership, with the qualities to fulfil the general requirements of work on a shoot.

Criteria - 1.Control2.Obedience3.Temperament4.Hunting5.Retrieving.The Assessment

The WGC can be achieved at a variety of events:•A shoot using game.•A Gundog Working Test (GWT)

On a shoot assessors will observe the participants throughout the day as they work their dogs in their usual role. The assessors will not devise any situations but simply be observing how a handler and dog cope with the specific tasks which arise naturally during the day.

By passing the working gundog certificate, you are able to enter the working classes at Crufts.

Show Gundog working Certificate A Gundog which has a Challenge Certificate or previously qualified for Crufts through a breed class may be entered for a Show Gundog Working Certificate at a Field Trial

SSa training weeKend - wincanton(Kat Edge)

Bill Cadwell had arranged for the Saturday to be aimed at beginners/novices. Attending the training day were my self with Nutmeg, Sally Vowles with Wrigby, Chris Hasting with Merlin and Ian Smith with Peggs and Julia Lewis with Nelly and Bett. We were also joined by Andy Jesson who provided the land and helped with the training. Luckily the weather was nice, although a bit on the hot side for the dogs.

We started the day with some basic sit, stays and recall so Bill and Andy could see what stage we were at. We then took turns doing these with Bill talking us through what we were doing correct and what could be improved on.

or a Show Gundog Working Day for its sub-group, licensed by the Kennel Club, with a minimum of two judges officiating, of which at least one must be an A Panel Judge.

The dog must fulfill the following requirements:The dog has been tested in line.The dog has shown that it is not gun-shy.For a Spaniel, that it hunted, faced cover, produced game andretrieved tenderly.For all retrieving breeds, that the dog entered water freely, swamand retrieved (If a natural retrieve from water is not possible, then adummy may be used. If suitable water is not available the dog ispermitted to undertake a special water test on a separate date at aseparate location recognised by the issue of a Certificate, to besigned by two Field Trial Panel Judges one of whom must be on the“A” Panel.The dog has not whined or barked in line. (Subject to the BreedStandard)The dog has been under reasonable control. (Absolute steadiness isnot essential).

If your dog is a show champion, passing this certificate will grant you Champion status.

Field TrialField Trials resemble as closely as possible a day’s shooting in the field and working gundogs are expected to work on a variety of game from rabbits and hares to grouse and pheasants. The majority of Field Trials are held during the shooting season (12 August - 1 February). A placing at a field trial gives your dog a stud book number and qualifies you for the field trial classes at Crufts as well as grants champion status to a show champion.Unfortunately, we do not have field trial champion status currently for the breed.

Hope this helps!

Bill

Bill Cadwell william.cadwell@btinternet.com

Date for your diary: 17th November - SSA Field Trial

We were then split in to two groups, Andy taking one group and Bill the other to do some further training, such as recalls and sit to whistle. After lunch it was decided we would do some water retrieves, so we all keenly through our dummies in, unfortunately the dogs were not so keen, luckily Nelly was on hand to retrieve them all. This was then followed by some hunting training in the woods.

Towards the end of the day we did some retrieves, Chris Hasting ‘s dog Merlin, made a lovely retrieve from thick cover and delivered it straight back. Bill then had a small test for us on our basics to see how much we had improved, luckily we all passed! It was then time for a well earned drink for us all at the pub.

Sunday was slightly more advanced, Sally, Julia and I were joined by some Clumbers. We started off with some basic, sit, stay and walk to heel. This was then followed by retrieves, left and rights and then using the dummy launcher. All the dogs were very well behaved and did some great retrieves. We were then split into groups to work on hunting and met back together to do some more retrieves with the dummy launcher. By the end of the two days the Sussex were very tired, so we happily watched the Clumbers do the hard work.

The training weekend was very enjoyable, with a wide range of abilities attending. It is a great chance to meet up with other minor breed spaniel owners, not just Sussex and to watch all the dogs enjoying their selves and progressing through out the day.

SSa training weeKend - chicKSgrove(Andy Jesson)

“I’m running a training day your way – can you help?” Once Bill Cadwell gave me the details I jumped at it, and the opportunity to build on a training weekend earlier in the year was a great attraction. So on an unseasonably grey day I met with Bill and a number of handlers and spaniels at a super ground just outside Chicksgrove in Wiltshire. The idea for two trainers was twofold, for the opportunity to work smaller groups and for the handlers to take the advice given by the trainers, to pick and choose then adopt what works for them and their dog. Although promoted as two separate days, in the event all handlers were there for both days, with some changing plans at the last minute so they could stay.

We had 7 Sussex, with three Clumbers and a Clumber/Cocker cross so a good mix, and ages

ranging from six months to four years. A short assessment allowed Bill and I to sort handler and dog partnerships into two groups. Bill took one and I took the second.

My group tended to concentrated on basic discipline, that is sit on command, a short stay, walking to heel on a slack lead and introduction to recall, whilst Bill ‘s group started with quartering and retrieving. Day two was pretty similar, with Bill and I swapping groups for the afternoon. For both days the handlers remained enthusiastic and attentive. As a result it was an immensely enjoyable weekend with all handlers and dogs making demonstrable progress.

Everything is built on the basics of walking to heel (without pulling) on and off lead at a variety of paces, the sit and stay and the recall. What was clear, and is a lesson for all handlers, no matter their chosen discipline, is that if the basics are not mastered the more advanced work will not succeed, notwithstanding that the basics are essential for responsible pet or companion dog ownership.

These basics will never be mastered without consistency, both in the application and use commands. As dogs do not speak human, we can help our canines by keeping to the same commands and consistent application of boundaries. How can we expect a dog to understand for example it is OK to jump up at the weekend when wearing jeans but not during the

week when wearing office clothes? It is far easier for the dog to understand that it is not allowed to jump up at any time. Same goes for furniture, a dog will be confused and hurt if it is normally allowed on the sofa but gets told off it tries it with a distinguished guest.

Examples are myriad, but the point clear. For the more advanced handlers there were again common areas for improvement. There was more than one handler that had been going to other trainers and attempting to push the dog faster than the dog was ready for. In my experience slower is better, no dog was ruined by using a cautious approach in ensuring the early lessons were well bedded in – but many have been ruined by asking the dog to progress too quickly.

For quartering (or hunting) once the basic pattern has been trained then the handler should read the ground and guide the dog. In hunting the handler and dog are working in partnership, after all the dog has excellent scenting abilities, whilst the human provides the brains and guidance. It is always important to be able to read your dog, and understand what it is trying to communicate to you, but more so when working your spaniel. Moving with the dog allows you remain in that so called zone of control all spaniels naturally exhibit – normally between five and ten metres, anticipate game holding areas and guide your dog to hunt fresh ground without pulling ahead or lining. More importantly it allows the dog to use its nose and express itself, using body language to tell you what it’s nose is telling it.

All the handlers showed great commitment and enthusiasm to try the new, so by the end of Sunday a short assessment showed how far all had come, and everyone showed improvement from the first greetings the day before. The purpose of these assessments is not to put pressure on the handlers, but an opportunity for them to objectively measure progress over the sessions. It is the handlers that make these days, so thank you all for your positive attitude in overcoming some significant and long held frustrations, and I sincerely hope you find useful the techniques and suggestions from the trainers. I do hope to meet you all again in the future and look forward to hearing of your successes and progress. For those of you that have not attended one of these weekends, please speak to those that did, find out what is involved and come along to the next. As you can see from the photographs these days are not restricted to Sussex, so owners of other minor breeds do please consider if such a weekend (or day) would help you. I for one would like to see a greater mix of breeds at these events.

a very Sunny yorKShire gamefair(26-27th may)

Friday 25th May, I finished loading up the car in excellent sunny weather, then put Oggie and Gretel in the car and drove down to the caravan storage, hitched up and hit the open road. Poor Vivien had been left on puppy duty with the rest of the dogs so there was just the three of us. We had always been to Harewood House in the past so the new venue of Stockeld Park at Wetherby was going to be an interesting change.

We arrived early in the afternoon and were directed to the discover Gundogs pavilion where we were allocated a space to camp just outside. It could not have been a better place, it was very hot so I built up slowly, then went for a walk . It was a lovely venue with plenty of room for them to run. On returning I put them in the shade and settled down to what

I considered to be a very well deserved beer!

By evening time the whole camp site was a cacophony of cars, caravans, various camper vans , tents of all shapes and sizes, It was just like a very colourful shanty town. I have a feeling that if the fire officer had seen it he would have a fit!

Outside nearly all the units were dogs of all shapes and sizes ranging from small terriers, the like of which are rarely seen, to large newfoundlands who one always thank god have such good temperaments.

By late evening I had managed to get into the pen in the pavilion . The hinges had dropped off and the bolt hardly worked but we managed ok over the weekend. I got the photos up , water bowl in, then fed and walked the dogs. I was running low on water so I went off to the water tank to find a lot of cross people also with the same idea.,surrounding a very empty tank. There was only 4 rather small ones on the site and all were empty. I do not think the organisers had expected quite so many people, dogs, ferrets , and so much sunshine.

The tanks were ferried back and forth to the site being filled continuously when empty by the organisers by the main entrance until we all had water. No doubt next year they will organise the water situation better. Once we had water I made myself a splendid stew after emptying a few tins into a saucepan and adding a dash of red wine.

I of course left a little for Gretel and Oggie to finish off, after finishing the bottle of red wine and a few beers it was time for all of us to turn in.

It was fair to say I had no problems sleeping and up bright and breezy in the morning, smiled on by lovely warm sunshine.

After the dogs had been walked and fed and shared a bacon sandwich we made our way to our position in the tent. By around 10 am things had got quite busy and I was joined by Gyl Sampson, her daughter Sally and their 3 Sussex .

It was good to see them and have more Sussex for the public to see. Rufus their oldest must be one of the last oldholbans at 13.5 and left alive. Rufus son at 10.5 with a slight heart murmur, but Gyl knows how to treat him, he looks fine for his age.

Bruno is Gyls youngest a lovely young dog of true sussex type but known to you as Rangatira Ivanho. Bruno did the breed a good service by having a good run in the beginners gundog class. Gyl and Sally took Bruno and Oggy (Julius of Tonispada at Norriss) our Belgium import into the retriever and spaniel parade, it was great to see 2 lovely true sussex type representing us and getting on well together. I finished the day doing the Gundog Parade with Gretel and Oggy.

Its surprising how little you sometimes know about some people. Gyl has owned a golden retriever and a working cocker both of which were very good in the field. Gyl sadly lost her golden through illness at the age of 4 and had her cocker stolen off her farm.

She later owned a Clumber that she successfully worked throughout its life, I look forward to her joining us next year at the Game Fair with young Bruno moving up a grade or two in the working ring.

At the beginning of the day Louis Bailey had asked us to give a collective noun for Sussex for the parade, they all looked so well and happy ,in such lovely conditions , I think a “Sunshine of Sussex” suits them very well.

As the Saturday proceedings came to an end I noticed the bar was just across the way and decided it was the best direction to walk the dogs in. I sat in the sunshine with an odd pint of beer and sharing a chili and garlic cumberland sausage with Gretel and Oggie, not my greatest decision as Oggie treated Gretel and I to some rather obnoxious wind during the night!

On our return to the caravan I noticed a very small bright red tent pitched next to us.I have to say how the lady occupier got in and out of it was beyond me. I’m not sure she appreciated my sense of humour when I asked her if it had a built in toilet, but it did not seem to stop her talking to me the rest of the fair.

Tea at night was a cold meat salad with Oggie and Gretel once again helping me eat my meal as well as their own. A few glasses of red wine, beer helped me sleep through the night.

Morning soon came it was a real treat to give the dogs a long run in such a lovely warm morning sunshine. I had just finished clearing up after them when I noticed they had gone! I returned back to the caravan fully expecting them to be waiting there for their breakfast but no Sussex!

After a few minutes of searching I went into the discover dogs tent and there they were sitting in the correct pen waiting to meet the great British public! It was not their turn on Sunday so I moved them out, fed them and made myself a good “fry up”. Those of you that know me know I like keeping my body close to perfection!

Ian and Rene Dean were on the stand with Lennon and Maude doing the honours. Lennon was already an old pro at the job but Maude had never seen the like of it before, she took to it like a Sussex does to singing and was soon taking her turn to chatting to all the passing folk. I’m sure Tom and Jane Graham would have been delighted to see how Maude had settled since being with Ian and Rene and it is always good to know your breeding is so outgoing.

Rene got us all an ice cream to cool us down and I supplied the odd lager.

In early afternoon Ian staggered around the ring in red hot sunshine with Lennon and Maude while Rene and I sat in the shade making sure he did the job properly.At 3.30 pm I joined Ian in the ring with all 4 Sussex together for the final Gundog parade of the show .

It was a lovely feeling to know that since the start of the Yorkshire Gamefair the Sussex have never missed a parade.

By 4pm our leader Louis Bailey of Irish water spaniels called an end to the day as it was now far to hot for the dogs. Rene and Ian got off home and I found a shaded part of the bar for the 3 of us.

That night I finished off the remainder of the food and the last of the red wine, and the odd tin of beer. The dogs had a good run around and then we all turned in for a well deserved sleep.

I have to say after breakfast on Monday morning and a good walk with the dogs I felt rather heavy of heart when I pulled off the site. I must admit I am already looking forward to next year!

Many thanks to all the helpers and to all other owners of Sussex past and present who came to visit.

SuSSex game & country fair 2012 (Sheila Appleby)

Now in our third year at Parham Park we had another great weekend. Countryman Fairs once again did us proud and provided support with a 3-bay marquee, chairs, tables etc, for our use over the weekend of 16 and 17th June. As our ‘puppy panels were in use Van Bennett brought her stock and we were able to set up enough pens for the dogs.

On Saturday, John took the posters, pictures and boxes of gear we needed, plus flowers carefully stowed away in the foot well and got there bright and early. Weather was thankfully dry enough for him to park right behind the tent as did Van who arrived with Sussex, Lola and Margot. Liz Bowe was staying with her, so came along with her dog Tog. Lynne and James Smithers turned up early with their two, Jess and Murray. Everyone got down to setting up the tent ready for the general public and our members. John says it was moderately busy, quiet at first but plenty of interest in the dogs. The main feature of the day was the very strong cool wind, but undaunted the Sussex folk from the local area turned up to join in, chat and have fun.

Sunday was my turn and wasn’t I lucky, bright sunshine greeted me and although loaded up with Wellies, big coat and extra fleeces, they were left in the car at 8 am! I was also very lucky also to have a good team who did everything for me. A modest number of items were put out for the raffle and as many had forgotten to bring anything, they set off shopping and came back with more goodies for the raffle. Once Jane Thorpe had arrived with the usual huge bag of goodies for the raffle, including homemade biscuits and fresh eggs, we got on with selling tickets. At the end of the day we had made £76 for SSA Rescue.

With the same team as Saturday, Pat Perkins and Ann were also there with dogs, to help, plus Lynda, Tony, Nathan Sayers with dog Bracken and they all helped chat to visitors. Greg Smith & Jan Murray with Monty arrived early and we were soon joined by Kay, Ian, Emily and James, who had come down from Gloucestershire. We were very busy by eleven o’clock there were lots of people interested in the Sussex; the dogs behaved well and in typical Sussex fashion took it all in their stride, having lots of cuddles and then finally settling down to a good snooze.

Lots of other members turned up with their dogs to join us and at times it was hard to move in the tent. We were ready to do the parade at noon and as it was delayed by the Rodeo, it meant that Jeremy was able to catch his breath and join in with Browney.

He’d been delayed at the entrance, where folk were queuing to get in. When the rodeo leaves the Main Ring they gallop right past us and not a muff from the Sussex - did they even notice, I’m not sure! Emily’s James stayed and manned the tent whilst we had the parade of 28 Sussex Spaniels in the main arena. It was lovely to see Ivy Hay there with Lordy, a true gentleman Sussex and she also joined us in the parade. Back at the tent it was time for the Auction of Hackett’s Sussex Charlie and Browney wallpaper. James Smithers was a great auctioneer and he handled his job with great aplomb; there was lots of laughter, as he teased the bids up and up. The Auction made £258 which included email bids. Ann’s Trevor won the Sussex Cake donated by Van and it was passed around for us all to enjoy. Lynda Sayers was delighted to win the Jubilee poster with Monty, donated by Greg and Jan. Van ran the Club shop over the weekend and takings were £260, new calendars were available which helped swell the coffers and saved us some postage.

Soon after, several more folk arrived, with their Sussex, they’d also been delayed at the show entrance. Everyone was enjoying the whole Fair and lots of shopping was done.

Jeremy had arrived in the first Sussex Tweed Jacket from the tailoring team. It looked very smart and how appropriate for the event, we all admired it. A little later on he asked a few folk to join him for a little photo shoot to publicise the new Sussex Tweed and he held on to a few of their dogs who once settled kindly posed for his cameraman. We all took the opportunity to take a few snaps of our own. Mid afternoon, Liz and I went off for lunch and I really enjoyed relaxing with fish and chips sitting in the warm sunshine, with the hub of the crowds around us. A really lovely day out and I felt that over the weekend we’d all done our best for the breed and enjoyed ourselves too.

Thanks again to everyone for all their help and particularly thanks to Van, James and Lynne who at the end of the day, took down the stand and packed up everything into my car ready for the journey home. We’ll be there again next year.

open Show 2012(Judge: Sheila appleby)

It was an honour and a privilege to judge at the Sussex Spaniel Association’s Open Show, Easter Saturday 7 April 2012. My thanks to the Committee and the exhibitors for their support and for a lovely entry. Thank you also to stewards, Ifor Williams and Ineke Mulder for their hard work on the day.

puppy dog (3) 1 Hastings’ Yorkham Bad Bear Day for Bardings, quality puppy of 10 months. Strongish head, liked the depth of muzzle and inquisitive expression, good mouth, big nose. Good straight front and layback of shoulders. Deep chest and well developed in body for age with good angulation at the rear and moderate bend of stifle. Moved very well. Good coat and colour. Best Puppy Dog and Best Puppy in Show; 2 Nesbitt’s Yorkham Fred Bear Day from Chabrouille, another lovely puppy, litter brother to 1 and very similar comments to 1 apply. Soft expression with head maybe a little plainer. Good straight front legs and good depth of chest. He is a little higher on the leg. Covers the ground very well on the move. Seal skin coat with good colour; 3 Trevallisse Mr Nice Guy.Junior dog (3, 1a) 1 Perkins Quintic The Farmer, Strongly built dog with a good wide head and soft expression, mouth good. Plenty of bone on sturdy legs. Body strong and muscular, into good rear quarters with bend of stifle. Moved very well; 2 John’s Nyliram the Explorer at Frommesbeck, taller on the leg than 1. Lots to like and a decent head which should develop well, good stop and soft expression. Hazel eyes. Straight front and body still to fully develop with a good deep chest. Good bend of stifle. Coat in very good condition. Moved very well.Special yearling dog (2, 1a) 1 Graham’s Belcam Over To You At Nyliram, Head of good width and plenty of character, good stop, hazel eyes, good mouth. Well developed body, level topline and moderate bend of stifle. Moved well. novice dog (2) 1 Perkins Quintic the Farmer, 2 John’s Nyliram the Explorer at Frommesbeck.graduate dog (2) 1 Hughes’ Quintic the Countryman, well made dog, with good bone throughout. Strong in head, deep flews, soft expression, deep chest and well sprung ribs. Large feet. Good topline, good drive and moves well. Would prefer a tad more height; 2

Basey’s Yorkham Beaujolais at Vadadin, handsome in head and well made throughout, long in body, good fore and rear quarters. Moved well. Excellent colour. Both 1 and 2 with lots of attributes, preferred 1 on the day.

post graduate dog (1) 1 Smith & Murray’s Norriss Northern Torpedo, masculine head with pronounced stop, good mouth. Shame hotspot on face spoilt his expression. Well developed body. Good bone throughout. Level topline on the move. Good natured and patient. Would prefer a little more height.

limit dog (7) 1 Bowe’s Belcam Percy Verance, large strong dog with gentle expression, great head of good proportions. Deep hazel eyes. Chest deep and strong in body and loin. Straight front legs. Well muscled in rear. Strode steadily around the ring keeping level topline. Coat longish and of excellent colour. Best Dog & Best Opposite Sex; 2 Boniface’s Belcam King’s Ransom for Glenbrows, good sound dog, with good proportions all through. Pleasing head and expression. Hazel eyes. Good bone. Moved very well. A little darker in coat; 3 Vowles’ Jubilwell Beast of Bodmin at Vobrook.

open dog (6) 1 Shankland’s Jubilwell Mars at Nyrrela SHCM, handsome chap with lovely profile, good wide head, strong sloping shoulders, well sprung ribs into good length of body. Good straight front. Has good coat and colour. Moved very well. Well presented. Reserve Best Dog; 2 Cadwell’s SHCH Jubilwell Thor, sire of 1, sturdy stocky dog of substance, with great head and plenty of bone throughout. Lovely kind expression with hazel eyes. Very good mover and carries tail a little higher. Great colour. Equally liked and 1 had extra height which I preferred; 3 Meggamooch Jester at Narddamway SHCM.

Bred by exhibitor (1) 1 Bowe’s Belcam Percy Verance RBD & BOSnot Bred by exhibitor (5) 1 Boniface’s Belcam Kings Ransom for Glenbrows; 2 Vowles’ Jubilwell Beast of Bodmin at Vobrook, handsome dog of smaller frame, in very fit trim condition. Well made. Excellent colour and good mover; 3 Bennett’s SHCH Nyliram Captain Morgan For Sovaroma.Special Beginners dog (3) 1 Hughes’ Quintic the Countryman, 2 Basey’s Yorkham Beaujolais of VandadinSpecial working dog (1,1a)veteran dog (3) 1 Graham’s SHCH Nyliram Night on the Tiles SHCM, stately gentleman of 10 ½ years. Well proportioned throughout with correct head and good stop, good size and type. Hazel eyes. Went around the ring like a pro with a steady roll on. Good coat colour, long and well feathered; 2 Bennett’s SHCH Nyliram Captain Morgan for Sovaroma, masculine dog of 8 years. Big wide head, a little heavy around shoulders, good strong body, well muscled in rear. Good coat and well feathered. Preferred the movement of 1. 3 Swietalski’s Bowswizzler Gandalf the Groovy.

puppy Bitch (2) 1 Brown’s Yorkham Bear me in Mind. Happy puppy with feminine head and slightly longer muzzle. She looks a bit up in the air at the moment, correct head, and good body for age. Good coat and colour. Moved quite well with tail wagging. Best Puppy Bitch; 2 Moon’s Trevallisse Eye of the Storm, Sweetest pretty bitch with good bone and good coat. Appealing expression and soulful eyes. Smaller cast than 1 and so preferred her.Junior Bitch (5) 1 Graham & Donaldson’s Nyliram Last Request. Pretty and feminine bitch with lovely head shape. Lots of attributes and she is well balanced overall. Still a youngster but well bodied throughout with good bone. Coat and colour just right. Moved very well with good level topline; 2. Brown’s Rangatira Ingot. Strong head with character which I liked and still feminine. Well bodied and good angulations, straight in front. Seal coat slightly darker than 1. Moved very well. 3. Jubilwell Freya.

Special yearling Bitch (2) 1 Wakefield’s Northern Cassandra, feminine bitch with correct

head. Body strong throughout, deep in chest, good front and moderate bend of stifle. Moved well keeping topline on the move; 2 Holt’s Nyliram Final Fling over Bethryn, Sweet bitch with lovely head and soft expression. Straight front, down a little in pasterns. Good length of body, strong rear quarters and good bend of stifle. Good seal coat. Moved well.

novice Bitch (2, 1a) 1 Swietalski’s Quintic Vogue of Bowswizzler. Lovely headed bitch, with soulful expression. Nice bone and body. Has seal coat and lack of feathering makes her look more up in the air. Unsettled on the move due to pacing partway around.

graduate Bitch (4, 3a) 1 Maddran’s Papplesett Remy Martin to Narddamway, nicely balanced bitch, neither too short nor too tall. Good feminine head, and well off for bone throughout. Straight front, deep chest and well ribbed up. Good bend of stifle. Drives from the rear and went around well.

post graduate Bitch (3,1a) 1 Kenyon’s Jubilwell Mashona at Pindani, pretty bitch with lovely head which has plenty of definition. Well off for bone. Lovely hazel eyes, deep stop and a frown. Deep in chest and well ribbed. Great colour. Moved with a roll; 2 Lark’s Belcam Calypso, lively young bitch, not yet mature. Sweet headed with lovely eyes. Has good bend of stifle and moved quite well.

limit Bitch (1) 1 Chambers’ Jessemyns Arun Victoria, sweet feminine bitch with a lovely head and expression. Coat was of excellent texture though would prefer it to be a shade lighter. Smartly presented. Moved well. A tad short on leg for my preference.

open Bitch (6, 1a) 1 Bennett’s Sovaroma Ruby Tuesday, Mature bitch of quality, with lovely strong head, deep muzzle, good stop and frown, expressive hazel eyes. Well made throughout, with good bone, straight front. Well bodied up. Well muscled in rear quarters. Nicely feathered with excellent golden liver coat. Moved very well, with a slight roll. Best Bitch & BEST IN SHOW; 2 Ashcroft’s SHCH Meggamooch Lucky for Torschca SHCM. Another quality bitch, very feminine with super head. Lots to like, mature in body with deep well sprung rib and good front and rear quarters. Moved very well, Reserve Best Bitch & Reserve Best in Show. 3. Watts’ SHCH Jubilwell Teazer of Stoweridge.

Bred by exhibitor (4, 2a) 1 Brown’s Rangatira Ingot; 2 Brown’s Yorkham Bear Me in Mind.

not Bred By exhibitor (1) 1 Watts’ SHCH Jubilwell Teazer of Stoweridge, Mature bitch with sweet feminine head. Good angles throughout with deep chest and ribs carried well back to strong loin. Plenty of bone. Of good size and type. Moved well with tail wagging. Happy temperament.

Special Beginners Bitch (1) 1 Hughes Jubilwell Freya, strong head but still very feminine. Longish in body with shortish legs. A little dark but should lighten with age. Would prefer more height.

Special working Bitch (1, 1a)veteran Bitch (4,1a) 1 Graham’s Sh Ch Nyliram Old Peculiar JW SHCM, lovely headed 8 year old, feminine bitch with good stop and frown. Well bodied up, with correct proportions throughout. Went round the ring with enthusiasm, moving soundly. Fit and happy girl. Well presented. Best Veteran; 2 Bowe’s Belcam She’s the One, Attractive 8 year old bitch very feminine, head is correct with soft hazel eyes. Well bodied, deep chest and ribbed up well, correct angles fore and rear. Another happy girl, she wagged her tail throughout. 3 Swietalski’s Bowswizzler Heiress Boudica.

Brace (1) 1 Swietalski’s Bowswizzler Gandalf the Groovy & Bowswizzler Heiress Boudica.

tollie (Ann McGloon)

Tollie (Quarr Tollard Royal) arrived in the Pacific Northwest on a pleasant Tuesday afternoon after a 10-hour flight from London’s Heathrow airport. My first view of this wonderful little bundle of brown was leaning over the counter of the British Airways cargo facility at Seattle, Washington’s SEATAC airport. His face was pressed against the crate screen and he was letting everyone know that it was time to get out and get on with things, paperwork be dammed. A Customs agent came out special to the cargo area just to make sure all was in order and then the counter help slowly entered data into some computer. Finally, he was mine. In an enclosed stairwell, I opened the crate door and after a few seconds of trepidation, he walked out on his own, into my lap, and it was all puppy kisses. The entire process was actually quite efficient, from plane landing to in my arms in about 45 minutes (just seemed longer), but we still were not home. We drove for three hours that night and spent the night in a hotel. The next morning it was up early for the remaining four and half hour drive to southern Oregon stopping along the way to stretch the legs by playing in the grass and meeting some American ducks. I was very thankful for my good friend Monica who came along to help with things and keep me company on the long 800+ mile drive. I chose Seattle for his arrival city because it was the closest airport that had non-stop service from London; not having to have him change plans was more than well worth the extra travel time.

Anyway, It feels like I’ve been waiting for my English bred Sussex for years and I am thrilled he has finally arrived. I have four other brown dogs at home: Connie (the oldest at 13 and the mother of the other three); brothers FOD and Winston (both 10) and then Beryl (now 8). With my pack aging, it was time to start a new Search & Rescue pup.

Winston is currently certified as a trailing dog and Beryl both in wilderness air scent and cadaver. Tollie will be trained as a SAR trailing and cadaver dog; we will also cross-train in agility and, of course, he will also be shown in the conformation ring.

I do believe he is going to be quite a handsome fellow. Right now though he is fast asleep after a busy morning of accompanying Beryl and Winston to a SAR call-out (water-search) followed by meeting Cody, one of our K9 Unit’s three Golden Retrievers, and then being imprinted on the smell of cadaver, which he thought was pretty cool.

Thank you Sheila for picking the perfect pup for me!

the SSa fun weeKendat downton caStle, ShropShire

(Vicky Watts)

Friday 8th June arrived with absolutely awful weather – torrential rain, wind and so cold – a truly typical English summer day!

Chris and Grace Brown were here camped in the student quarters which they had made very welcoming. Anthony and me were home with the Cadwells and the Sussex weekenders were trickling in ready for the official start the following morning. Bill was abducted by Chris Wakefield for a supposedly quick libation at the local hostelry – they must have got lost because it was a good two hours before they reappeared!

All was quiet with everyone relaxing in readiness for the fun the next day, or so we thought, but the tranquillity was disturbed with a loud knock at our door. There stood Carol Williams requesting we call an ambulance urgently as Grace had slipped in the field whilst walking the dogs and they thought she might have broken something.

A ambulance was duly summoned and we trundled up to the field en masse on that bone chilling evening to find Grace in pain but with brave face. The ambulance arrived remarkably quickly and whisked Grace off to Shrewsbury hospital where she was diagnosed with a broken ankle.

Our Chairlady was soon well and truly plastered without the help of Bill and Chris! She bravely returned to base in the early hours of the following morning with instructions to return to the Practice Clinic later that morning.

After the events of the previous day Saturday morning was soon upon us and with it a rather strange phenomena and rare sight – the sun! The smell of bacon butties wafted around and were being eagerly consumed when we heard a lot of hollering from the field where the brave campers were ensconced. What now? Oh dear! some cattle

from an adjoining field had broken through the gate and were stampeding. After lots of jumping up and down, chasing and yelling we managed to evict the miscreant herd.

We had a full itinery for the day that started gently with a grooming session (this was for the Sussex not their owners!) with Daphne and Dee. During the course of the morning’s activities and over lunch it came to light that Igor had mislaid his medication en route. A mad dash to Ludlow was necessary to find an emergency supply, which was successful,

but the price tag of £22.50 did little to alleviate Igor’s symptoms. Following this came the news that Grace had to stay in hospital for an operation to pin her ankle. Even though the sun was shining you could say it never rains but it pours!

Ringcraft training with Grace Shankland was entertaining and I was pleased to see Helen Bonigace having as much trouble with Edith as I incur on a daily basis with Dora.

A training session with Bill was the start to our afternoon and this proved very helpful and entertaining with an excellent turnout. A quiz followed and then it was time for the BBQ and to get on our dancing shoes for the Ceilidh (kindly organised and paid for by Chris and Grace Brown who were celebrating their Ruby wedding anniversary).

We drank to Grace’s health and sent a noisy message over the phone to her hospital bed.The Ceilidh was a riot – the setting so authentic and it was wonderful to see so many get up and join in the party spirit. I noticed Chris Wakefield never had a dance but we will catch him next year!

After the festivities when everyone was returning to their beds and nothing untoward could possibly happen, it did! Ifor and Carol realised they had locked themselves out of their caravan. Enter the knight in shining armour in the form of Kelly Jefferies for a spot of cat burglary.

Sunday morning brought more sunshine and after all were fed and watered we had training with Bill and then a few headed out for a little walk. I did warn them that the route was a tad hilly and I think we mislaid a few en route. All who came I am sure will agree that the views are breathtaking and well worth the mountaineering effort!

Following a well-earned cuppa came the auction of the Agnes Coxon items so kindly left to the SSA. Chris Wakefield took the helm and kept us amused and parting with our money throughout.

A relaxed lunch and then the gun dog show with Kath Brown our esteemed judge. I think she was rather taken with the prized specimen Ifor was showing.

Then, all too suddenly, it was time to depart. This was the first fun weekend I had attended and being at my house I was a bit apprehensive about everything being all right and if people would enjoy themselves. I need not have stressed myself as so many mucked in with cooking, washing up etc and made it such a lovely atmosphere that myself, Anthony, Harry, our family and friends who attended were delighted to be a part of it and it will be a cherished memory forever for me – even though it was mad and certainly not without incident!

the BreederS profile with pat perKinS (quintic)

I came into contact with the breed in the 50’s when a cousin had a Sussex and I was always keen on spaniels. The Fiancee went by the board but the dog stuck in my mind.

Already amateur bulldog showers, we were also interested in shooting. The new addition had to forefill all criteria. The Sussex fitted nicely into the existing accommodation and got on well with the bulldogs.

first Sussex - Penygader Dorcas was our introduction to the breed and she came from Elaine Moore. We bought Susie when the new forest was on fire the last hot summer. She was a little tall and dark and very much her own person.

Breeding - Susie, was not that tuned into working, which was the main idea of having her so we decided to have a litter of puppies. We had already had a couple of bulldog litters and it seems a waste of a rare breed not to have a litter. Her offspring were much improved in the field and she produced us Joby in her 1st litter, and our first super field dog in her second litter. She was a wonderful mum 3 litters with 25 pups, I have to say mostly boys.

in at the deep end - At the time we started in the breed, many others were already making names such as; Ann Findlay, Faith Gilham just one litter ahead from Elaine Moore, The Wakefields, etc, Chris Bexon was also just starting with Sussex as was Ivor and Carol. A really old line Up! No one was particularly influencial at that time as we were all in at the deep end!

Show Success - Our first CC was with Quintic Joby in 1977 under George Lancaster at WELKS - a very special moment. In the same year, we made Joby into a show champion.Over the years we have owned 4 champions and bred 8 overall including overseas.

Best example - Time takes it toll however if I was to choose one dog that I felt best fit our standard, Quintic Joby has to be at the front because he was such a good sire, but Quintic Fern was a lovely bitch and even then managed some group placing, also producing some very good off spring.

health - I feel that basically the Sussex are pretty healthy. Hip scores are not good but do not seem to affect mature dogs significantly. We have a very small gene pool, so it is everyones interest to cast the

net as wide as possible in the search of sires. They do not have to be the show winning dogs.

future - My only advise for the future breeders is to keep the essence of the breed firmly in mind they also have to be family acceptable.

JudgeS profile with chriS haStingS (BardingS)

I was Born in 1951 and lived for the first 30 odd years of my life in London. As a child I always loved the outdoor life and spent most of my time, fishing and hanging around get-ting up to no good. Although I wasn’t allowed to have a dog, one of my Aunts always had GSD’s and I used to spend hours walking with them. Another Aunt had an evil Smooth Dachshund who I wasn’t so keen on, so you can imagine how I felt when Shani an-nounced years later that we were going to add Wire Dachsies to the family! Living in London, Shani and I always used to go to Crufts, first at Olympia then when it moved to Earls Court. We got our first Cocker in 1978, and at Crufts that year I saw my first Sussex Spaniel. We had to wait until we got married in 1980 to acquire out first Sus-sex named Polly. She was one of the Nordahl litter, which did very well, Polly gained 2 CC’s but we could never get her 3rd, but she was BOB at Cufts in 1983. Both Mavis and George has Otter and Lorna out of that litter, and Janet Burt also had a bitch. Gradually the Sussex took over the Cockers, and we also upped sticks and in 1984 moved from London to Cheshire. We have been very lucky to have had some wonderful Sussex over the years, and our Herbie (Ch Rangatira Delta) was a real highlight. Bred by Chris and Grace Brown, Herbie easily gained his title and then went on to gain his full Ch at the Show Gundog Working certificate, which was a great day for us. Herbie also went BIS on numerous occasions at open shows and was BOB at Crufts in 1993. We also owned his son Bardings Boomerang (Spike) who although not the best Sussex in the world was a cracking working dog and a got 2nd in the first ever SSA Field Trial, a real highlight for me. Sh Ch Bardings Bul-rush (Maggie) was a lovely girl, and as well as getting her title, also went BIS at the SSA show under Elaine Moore. B. Baltic Amber was very unlucky not to gain her title hav-ing 2 CC’s but did get BOS at the SSA Ch Sh. Amber was the Dam of our Teddy (Sh Ch B Brown Bear JW ShCM) who gained 10 CC’s and also had numerous BIS and Groups at open shows. We lost him at 6 years of age, as most of you will know, and it was the worst thing by far we’ve ever had to come to terms with in the breed. We now have Merlin who is a real character, as they all are, and he keeps us on our toes, although he thinks he’s a Dachshund. I still love the outdoor life and my favourite time of the year is the shooting season and I go beating as often as I can. I am very lucky to be invited to go on 5 different shoots, and my main companion is Denzil Dachshund and his son Marcus. I am hoping to start Merlin off this year, although he did go on a couple of shoots last year to see what it was all about. I also go shooting and have shot on the last 3 SSA Field Trials which is always a great day out. I award CC’s only in Sussex, and my first appointment was in 1997. I really don’t have a great desire to work my way up the greasy pole and judge numerous breeds. I have also judged Gundog groups at open shows, but really I like to show my dogs, Having said this, I am very much looking forward to judging at the Ch show, it is a great honour and know I will enjoy my day.

montymy firSt 2 yearS of Being owned By a SuSSex Spaniel!

(Ann Basey)

Early in September 2009 my husband, David, and I made the extremely hard decision that it was time to say goodbye to our fifteen and a half year old Clumber Spaniel, Barnie (Gentle Baby). Throughout his life Barnie had lived up to his pedigree name and was much loved by all the family – young and old alike. By this time, however, he was completely deaf and nearly blind and in the last two weeks of his life had begun to wander about our bungalow obviously in some distress so on a lovely Monday morning I held his head sitting in the back of the car while our vet administered his final injection.

Little did I realise on that September day that within the month I would also lose my beloved husband and best friend. David had been diagnosed with kidney cancer in February 2008 but his final days came much more suddenly than any of his family thought.

Within two or three weeks of David’s death I realised that I could so easily withdraw into myself even though I have a marvellous and supportive family and with winter approaching it would be all to easy to sit indoors feeling miserable. I decided that the way forward for me was to find myself another dog preferably a puppy that could grow up with my grandchildren and become part of the family as Barnie had been. I could not, at that time, face having another Clumber as Barnie had been such a character so decided to look for another spaniel.

After much research, thank goodness for the internet, I chanced upon the Sussex Spaniel website and liked what I read about these brown dogs. I contacted several people off the breeder list and was eventually put in touch with Jo Brown who lived on the Norfolk/Cambridgeshire border and was put onto her waiting list. After the puppies were born on 16th November 2009 Jo offered me a dog puppy. About four weeks later I visited Jo and picked out the dog puppy that appealed to me and called him Monty. Needless to say my grandchildren were impatient for the weeks to pass by until we could collect the newest member of our family.

Monty aged 6 weeks

One very cold and snowy Friday in January I picked up my younger daughter from her home near Norwich and we made our slippery way to Jo’s to collect Monty. I had left a blanket with Jo so that Monty would bring some familiar smells home with him and had put a hot water bottle in the bottom of his travelling crate so he wouldn’t feel cold without his mum, brothers and sisters. On the way home we picked up my 4 year old granddaughter, Amira, from her childminder and as soon as we arrived home Monty was out of his crate and playing in the snow with Amira much to the delight of both of them and a pleasure to watch.

Monty & Amira on the beach in Gorleston

Monty’s first few nights at home were a bit noisy as I suppose he was missing the company of the other puppies but I resisted the temptation to comfort him knowing that he was warm and comfortable and he soon learnt that when it was dark and he was put in his crate in the corner of the lounge it was sleep time. Each time I walked to my local high street I carried him in a shopping bag so that he could get used to the different sounds and smells and most times I went out in the car he

came too although he soon got used to being left for a short time as well.

As soon as Monty had had all his vaccinations it was time for him to visit the big outside world walking on his lead! He thought that this was a good adventure especially as we usually had our walks through the park behind my bungalow at the times that children were going to or coming from school. He soon had his own fan club especially the four children of one particular family who soon told me off if they did not see and play with him for a few days. We started to go to a local dog training school which took mixed ages of dogs. Monty quickly made friends with a long haired German Shepherd several months older than him and the pair of them would rather play fight than do as they were told in the training sessions. We also started a puppy training class to which I took my grandson as I thought it was important for Charlie to learn how to train a dog and this became the start of a lasting friendship between the two of them as they are still “best mates”.

Best mates – Monty & Charlie

In the summer of 2010 I decided to take Monty and my two eldest grandchildren, Erin and Charlie, to the Fun weekend. We all had a great time with the children and Monty winning the fancy dress competition and taking part in all the games even though we had to borrow another Sussex so that both the children could take part. At that weekend I met Shani who owned Monty’s father and she asked me if I was going to show Monty. That option had never occurred to me as I had simply bought him as a pet but once home I talked it over with my family and decided to have a go.

Sheila put me in touch with Peter Maddran who lived quite near me as I had no idea about how to show a dog and my thanks go to him for all his help and encouragement. I also attended a local ringcraft calls but nobody there seemed interested in helping a complete novice as I was. I decided to take the plunge into the show arena and the first show I entered was the club championship show – into the deep end I thought! My elder daughter came with me on that day as I was a bundle of nerves – ridiculous for a sixty two year old I thought – but I did it and to my surprise Monty was best dog puppy and to

my astonishment had qualified for Crufts ! We then entered several other shows before Crufts where my nerves got the better of me and I did not do justice to my boy. We have continued with our showing with varying degrees of success and I must say I have met some lovely people who own all sorts of breeds of dogs and have expanded my social network.

Throughout last year I had been in considerable and increasing pain through a degenerating hip problem which in the end prevented me from attending that year’s championship show much to my disappointment. However, I finally had a hip replacement at the end of September so was looking forward to getting back in the show ring in the new year.

It might seem to you reading this that it has all been plain sailing raising Monty but this is not the case. Although he soon learnt to “poo” outside he decided that, for a long time, he would only wee indoors and I seemed to permanently walk around with a cloth in one hand and anti bacterial spray in the other. He also went through several weeks when he decided that no way was he going back on his lead after a walk and I can clearly remember on very rainy Saturday morning waiting with my back turned to him whilst he danced around my feet until he finally gave in and let me put his lead on. He chewed furniture for some time tearing the material off the bottom of the dining room chair seats and chomping up the wooden arms of my conservatory armchairs among other destructions. He quickly decided that he would not eat the puppy food that Jo had been feeding him so I tried him on various others but he did not take to anything. In the end I decided to do for him as I did for Barnie. I cook batches of fresh chicken thighs or fresh beef mince with mixed vegetables. Once the chicken is taken off the bone and that fat off the mince I divide it up into meal size portions and freeze. This he has mixed with biscuit and he loves it. It doesn’t take long to do and at least I know what he is eating.

Monty doing what he does best!

Taking all this into account I would not part with him for anything. He was my only companion for much of the time and when I was less mobile after my operation he was an absolute star. I had to rely on other people to take him out for me but as he loves all people and most other dogs that was no problem. He seemed to understand that I could not play with him as much as usual and he went to bed in his pen with no trouble at all.

Now, after two years, would I have another Sussex Spaniel – yes I would - but did I? I knew that I would love to have another dog but somewhere deep in my heart is a very special place reserved for a (and I’ll whisper this) Clumber Spaniel so in February this year we added to our family with a beautiful liitle Clumber bitch who my granddaughter named Betsy. Monty and Betsy are the best of friends although she bosses him by pulling on his ears and tail which he takes in good part and they are often seen sleeping side by side on the sofa – no room for me of course!

I look forward to many happy years with my 2 spaniels and who knows what may happen in the future – another Sussex or another Clumber or may be both??

JudgeS liSt 2012/2013

a1 BreedSpecialists

a1 non Breed Specialists

a3 Breed Specialists

B non Breed Specialists

Mrs S. AldersonMrs D AshcroftMrs D BaileyMrs C BexonMr C. BexonMrs E Bowe Mr C Brown Mrs G Brown Mrs C CoodeMr T GrahamMrs J GrahamMrs J HartleyMr C HastingsMrs G. HayMr R Hall JonesMr A Jury Mrs C JuryMrs K KeelyMrs K KenyonMrs P LeslieMiss S LeslieMrs J MinnsMrs A MoonMrs E MooreMr C MuirheadMrs P PerkinsMrs B PurkisMrs S SevastopuloMr C WakefieldMrs C WilliamsMr I Williams

c list continued....Mrs C House*Mrs A Howes*Mr L Hunt*Mrs L HunterMrs C McDonald* Mrs W Manning*Mrs M Meredith*

Mr M ArmstrongMrs D ArrowsmithMrs B BanburyMrs D BarneyMr A BraceMr G ClarkeMrs V FossMr M. FowkesMrs K GormanMr M HerwinMrs P HollingsMr J HorswellMr F KaneMrs P LesterMrs S MarshallMrs J MillerMrs A MossMrs D MowbrayMrs T ShortMrs F SomerfieldMrs R SowtonMr J ThirlwellMr G TalbotMr G WilliamsMr C Woodward

Mr D Miller*Mr D Moss*Mr C Page*Mrs C Page*Mrs A Pamment*Mrs J Park*Mrs M Pearson*

Mrs S Appleby Mr M Boswell Mrs C BrooksMr L CoxMr J GoodwinMrs E. HarperMrs G ShanklandMrs G Simpson

a3 non Breed SpecialistsMrs J HolgateMr M KeelyMr R. Mosedale

B Breed SpecialistsMr J ApplebyMr J ButkusMrs J CadwellMr I DeansMr P HarperMrs K JefferiesMrs SwietalskiMiss J Walsh

Mr J M Phillips*Miss J Pretty* Mrs J Revill*Mrs P Rowlands* Mr I SparhamMr H Taylor*Mrs S Taylor*

Mr B BunceMrs V DayMrs M HathawayMr C HolgateMr M HowesMrs E HughesMiss B JohnsonMr I LayfieldMr E LockettMrs F MarshallMr R MorrisMr M QuinneyMrs A WebsterMr F Whyte

c listMs K AmeyMr P Carpenter*Mrs P Butler-Holly*Mrs S Connolly*Mrs L. Cooper*Mr L ForfarMrs H Fry *Mr R Garner *Mrs J Gill-Davis*Mrs S Goodwin*Mrs D GorseMr G Harran*Mr T HarrisonMrs H HarrisonMrs G Horrocks*

Mrs L Thorogood*Mrs H Tye*Mr G Underwood*Mrs M Waddell*Mrs S Woodbury Smith*

* non Breed Specialists

welcome to new memBerS 2011-2012

Michael Rayment from Abbots AnnStephanie and Edward McAlpine

Graham Underwood and Marie Leafhead in Aley GreenFiona and Peter Kensell from EpsomGraham & Sally Powell in Caterham

Emma Pardey and Andy Scott in BalcombeGreg Smith and Jan Murray from Winchelsea BeachLynda, Tony and Nathan Mrs Sayers from Hassocks

Gavin Stoneystreet & Jenny Maddox from Richards CastleBarbara Megran from Barton on Sea

Lindsey and Kayleigh John from DudleyHelen James from Cople

Margaret Reynolds from BrightonDiana Mackey from Corfe Mullen Les & Trish Taylor from Harefield

Andrew and & Mrs Pakeman plus family from CheddletonBeth and Kath Holt from Heywood

Jeff & Rose Burnett from the Isle of WightKevin Cosham and Maria Ghanima from Biggleswade

Sarah Jackson from NorthumberlandDonna and Kevin Price from Northallerton

Andy and Linda Willers from SouthendSue and Nick McGlennon from Cambridge

Sam Stokes and Mark Stoodley from HorshamLinzi Bannister from Fleet

Michael and Rosemary Smith from Storrington Margaret Swain from Market Drayton

Sharon Overton from LeicesterSam Coney from BirminghamJill Donaldson from Aley Green

Welcome to everyone, lots of new members this time. Several have been members for over a year and are on SSA Facebook and have made many friends already. Our members are

approved throughout the year by the Committee and it is at the AGM (April 2012) when all the above are formally made members.

puppy regiStrationS for 2011

Taken from the Kennel Club Breed Records Supplement

Mr C & Mrs G Brown (KCAB) - 23/01/112 Dogs, 2 bitches - Belcam Percy Verance x Rangatira Good As Gold

Mr & Mrs Cadwell – 11/01/111 Dog, 2 bitches - Jubilwell Thor x Jubilwell Phoenix

Mr & Mrs Currah (KCAB) – 03/12/101 Dog, 2 bitches – Meggamooch Ozzy Osborne x Kykesow Cracklin Rosie

Mrs I Mason – 28/12/103 Dogs, 4 bitches - Deanway Distant Storm x Conundrum Angel

Mrs Arnold – 26/04/112 Dogs, 3 bitches – Deanway Storm Warning x Sh Ch Belcam Miss Defying

Mrs J Brown – 16/05/114 dogs, 3 bitches – Torshca Teddy Ready Go - Jubilwell Fursty Ferret

Mrs N Giles – 16/05/113 bitches - Quarr Woodlander At Quintic x Quarr Forest Cherry

Mr & Mrs Graham (KCAB) – 03/03/112 bitches - Milligan Day Tripper to Mountdown x Sh Ch Nyliram Old Peculiar JW ShCM

Mr & Mrs Graham (KCAB) – 05/03/111 Dog, 1 bitch – Milligan Day Tripper To Mountdown x Nyliram Just Maude

Mr J & Mrs P Perkins - 28/03/114 dogs – Marquell Issey Miyake x Quintic Damson

Mr Templeton - 19/05/112 Dogs - Meggamooch Never Say Never x Johannarose Sunshine Lady

Mr Lowndes – 22/05/114 Dogs – Torscha Teddy Ready Go x Moorsvale Pride And Joy

Ms Massingham – 06/01/112 Dogs – Quarr Woodlander At Quintic x Charming Belle

Mr & Mrs Watts – 08/11/112 Dogs, 1 Bitch – Sh Ch Nyliram Captain Morgan For Sovaroma x Sh Ch Jubilwell Teazer Of

Stoweridge

2011 Puppy Registrations – 51 + 1 Import* = 52

*Import 04/02/10 – Julius of Tonispada at Norriss

nigel diStempermanchester A very good entry for the first Ch show of the year which is held at Stafford showground. Sheila was showing off the new Sussex material that had been designed by our Patron Jeremy Hackett, and the Queen Mum was very enthusastic about having a jacket made, although the rest of us thought maybe a hanky would be more affordable. Lovely to see Julie Cadwell and of course everyone wanted to know how Bill was feeling after trying to fly...without much luck!! It was a very nasty accident and he was so lucky that it wasn’t any worse, although it was bad enough, and it was great to see her and Mickey have such a lovely day after the traumas of the past few weeks. crufts Friday for us this year, which meant traffic...traffic and more traffic especially on the way home. Always lovely to catch up with everyone, if you can get through the different halls. Our Chairperson was judging her other breed Weinmaraners, and looked very smart in her lovely jacket, complete with matching nail polish. Husband Chris was also well co-ordinated, not with nail polish but a tie that complimented Grace’s outfit beautifully...not that he spent much time watching her judge...he came and sat with the Sussex crowd, and even the promise that the WW made about judging next year in a thong, didn’t make him move....everyone else did...but Chris stayed put!! It was lovely to see Bill in person...still suffering from his ailments, but not as much as we suffered from his jokes....they are just as painful! The decibel level rose slightly when Darling Chris W turned up from Discover Dogs, just as Emily Kenyon was handling out the Haribos...the lovely sour jelly flavour. The WW pulled all sorts of faces sucking on one, but at least it kept him quiet, however much to TOWIK disappointment he wouldn’t have another.

The QM was buzzing around on her motorscooter, and not a drop of gin passed her lips...well not until later anyway!Our benches are fairly near the exit doors which is handy if you want to nip out for a quick ciggy, so Annie A, Mark Boswell and Helen Boniface were missing for quite some time...although I’m assured you meet some very interesting people sharing a common interest.Always a good place for shopping...if you can find the stalls you want and get through the crowds/pushchairs and people walking 3 or 4 abreast so you can’t get to see everything, but we keep going!! SSa open show At lovely little Baginton, which is always started by our AGM, and is pretty well attended for our small breed, plus there’s the added incentive of bacon baps before we start. The weather was pretty reasonable so we were judged outside, with the WW acting as chief steward, but despite that it all went smoothly. We had various stalls inside, Judith Currah had worked very hard on a bring and buy stall, which had lots of homemade goodies on it. There was a tombola, a raffle, and Darling Chris W had a stall with all proceeds going to the SSA 2014 year, which is our 90th anniversary. There was a fab cake donated by Van Bennett, which Paul Brown won...in fact Paul seemed to have his wallet permanently open...he’ll get used to that! Chris was also selling Sussex prints and Tom and Jane Graham had donated some of their lead holders that they make...TOWIK brought the WW a meekat, as he has a soft spot for them...simples! There was also the Table at which the QM, TOWIK and occasionally Shani H were marking catalogues. In fact it was a good job the show was outside, as there sure wasn’t any room in the hall.

It did rain at lunchtime which meant everyone came into the hall but thankfully it didn’t last long, and the sun came out again. Lots of people taking pictures and now with the technology, most of them were on Facebook the same evening, so there is no hiding place! welKS This has to be one of the soggiest in living memory...the rain was horizontal, so of course we were judged inside, but it got cold as well so most people were well wrapped up, although I’m amazed that some people still come dressed as if it’s a spring day. However we made the most of it but the poor stallholders really did suffer, Shani H went to Diamond Edge to buy a new blade, and the purchase took place at the back of the tent, money and brown paper package being exchanged through the opening...it looked very suspicious! As soon as judging was over, everyone just went home, except for Annie A who had come with Housie, and she didn’t get into MPB until nearly 4pm. Gail Hay who lives pretty local, never got there....she got up Sun Morning, looked out of her window....and went back to bed! Bir nat Thursday for us, and it seems as if the midweek days are affecting the entries, everyone is being much more choosy about where they go, and with show entries and fuel costs, you really can’t blame them. However those that were there made sure there was a good atmosphere around the ring. and of course lunch was the order of the day. Emily came with Kay and brought another bag of sour jellies...she can’t come to a show now unless she has a bag. We were discussing her forthcoming nuptuals and for some reason everyone thinks it’s funny that Gail and Shani have volunteered to be flower girls! They’d look fab in pale blue satin with large bows and butterfly wings...Emily didn’t look impressed!!

newS in Brief

new bank details for SSaPlease pay to LLOYDS TSB BANK PLC. Witney Branch, 2-4 Market Square, Witney, Oxon, OX28 6RDSort Code 77 23 04 Account No. 20072368

Sussex Spaniel friendly holiday cottageHigh Bank Cottage near Ludlow Shropshire welcomes brown dogs. A great rural retreat surrounded by wonderful walking countryside and the beautiful medieval town of Lud-low, famed for its food and history. Self catering cottage sleeps 2-3. Private garden area. seasonal produce available to guests.

web- www.highbankcottage.co.uk email- info@highbankcottage.co.ukAsk for Gavin on 01584 831795

Show championsWell done to our new show champions so far this year;Sh Ch Jubilwell Thor, Sh Ch Belcam Percy Verance, Sh Ch Tawnyka Golden CaramalSh Ch Glenbrow’s Scrumpy Jack, Sh Ch Meggamooch Jester at Narddamway Sh Ch Jubilwell Mars at Nyrella.

Sussex Spaniel Association

www.sussexspaniels.org.uk