West Of England Ladies Kennel Society

West Of England Ladies Kennel Society

26th April 2025

Gundog Group

It was a pleasure to judge what turned out to be a very strong Gundog Group at this prestigious show and I thank “The Ladies” for the kind invitation and welcome.

The sun was shining so it was wonderful to see all judging taking place outside and in general a good mood was prevalent. The show was managed superbly, and the group was called in good time.

As I have said, this was a strong group and even though I shortlisted 10, I still had to walk past dogs that appealed to me, some of which I have previously given a CC to. But decisions have to be made, and it should always be about “on the day”.

It was also encouraging that there were a handful of youngsters in the group that show so much promise and in 6 months to a years’ time will be hitting the high spots. This bodes well for the future and proves that all is not lost, we still have some of the finest dogs in this country and we should be proud and celebrate them.

 My shortlist consisted of the English Setter, Hungarian Vizsla, Irish Setter, Pointer, Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, American Cocker Spaniel, Cocker Spaniel, Irish Water Spaniel and the Weimaraner.

Group 1, I could not find anything to lower the recent colours of the Cocker Spaniel Sh Ch Zheridons Blanche. What a beautiful bitch she is and in the most wonderful coat and condition and superbly presented. She epitomises the phrase “cockery” and what a delight to see her moving with a bustle yet remaining so sound and precise. Her head pleases and she has the most delightful expression. Strong neck into firm topline leading to a slighted round rump and perfect tail set. Well ribbed, strong in loin and totally balanced in angulation. On the move she really uses herself, has style, carriage and the most wonderful side gait. Her tail also never stops. Yes, she got a little enthusiastic on the final go around, but she soon settled back into stride, and I was not going to punish her for showing some personality. A truly beautiful bitch.

Group 2 was the delightful Golden Retriever Sh Ch Quakerhall Flare by Pandora. She took my eye when she first entered the ring for her balance and side action. Another who pleases in head and expression and she is beautifully constructed. Her topline is rock solid and she uses her tail all the time. Balanced front and rear and a real delight to see such forward reach. Nothing over done or flashy about her but she could so obviously do a day’s work with no trouble. I liked her enormously.

Group 3 and only a youngster, but what a wonderful example of the Irish Water Spaniel she is. Sh Ch Stanegate Standing Ovation is a real class act and is without doubt a star of the future. Her shape, size, coat, presentation and movement are hard to fault. This kennel has produced some beauties over the years, but I will hazard she could be one of the best ones yet.

Group 4 was a tussle between a couple in the shortlist, but the English Setter Sh Ch Wansleydale Maybee JW was determined no to be ignored. I had him in the breed a couple of years ago and he didn’t have the best of days, but boy has he matured and is now the finished article. I love his type, and he has a beautiful head and expression. Strong neck, wonderfully ribbed and perfect topline. Moved with an ease of stride and used his tail at all times. He completed a quartet of very beautiful Gundogs.

Lee A S Cox (Judge)