It all started back in 1985 when I got my first show dog,  the Golden Retriever, Ir Ch Greenglen Glamour Boy.  He gained his title in 1987; I also had another Golden Retriever, Garbank Trendsetter, along with Beagles from the famous Dialynne kennels.

My life was to change when I first saw a Clumber Spaniel at a show in Scotland and I knew this breed was for me.  I spoke with Mrs Rae Furness, of the famous Raycroft Kennels who had contributed so much to the breed and she allowed me to choose a puppy from one of her litters - I came home with Raycroft Socialite when he was just 10 weeks old.

He was later known to all as Garfield and he made an impression on all who came across him. He gained his titles as a Show Champion in England and Ireland and was winner of Pup of the Year 1989.

His greatest achievement, of course, was that sensational Best in Show at the centenary Crufts in 1991.  Garfield was the first and - to date - only Clumber Spaniel to go Best in Show at the world's most famous and prestigious canine event.   

Thank you Garfield.

From the early 90s judging appointments became more frequent and under the IKC and FCI rules I now judge all the gundog group and have progressed to the hound group. I have been fortunate to judge in the UK, Italy, Holland, and the USA.