

Mell Brookes who judged on the day said: “I've really enjoyed the day. There was a good variety of dogs which highlighted the different standards of novice. Some of the handlers needed to concentrate on their finer points of their basics. As in delivery, keeping the dog under control once it’s come back from a retrieve and lining the dog up properly for the 2nd retrieve. Attention to detail with the basics is so important and it pays off if you get this area 100% before moving on.”

When I ask Dave if he needs anything specific for a test day he smiles. “Confidence! Knowing I’ve put the time in and done the training consistently before a test day gives me the confidence. There’s nothing that will phase me and having the dog's trust is important. We all get nervous but it gives us an edge on the day.”

“That was sheer terror!” laughed Clare. “As I went into the field someone told me it was to decide last place!” she joked as she shook hands with Mark.

Special thanks to the URC test organiser, Sarah Winter, our host, judges, helpers and competitors for making this such a successful day. As always Skinners provided much appreciated sponsorship.
2nd: Fordcopse Baillie Lab D) - Jackie Davies (and the Auro Trophy)
3rd: Lenham Solaway (FCR) - Keith Manley (and also top FCR)
4th: Cynhinfa Napoleon (Lab D)- Claire Salter.
COM - Overthwarts Olive Lab B)- Mark Schiller.
Dog the judges would most like to take home: Leadburn Vanessa - James Walsh.
Many thanks Sarah Clayton for taking the pics!