"I would like to thank the committee of the Club for inviting me to judge their Open Show. Initially I was invited to judge the Dogs but due to unforeseen circumstances I was asked if I would judge both sexes. Of course I accepted and had a thoroughly enjoyable day with an exceptional entry. I was well looked after by my stewards who kept the dogs coming by using a collecting ring which meant that the next class was ready as soon as I had critiqued the previous class winners.

I felt the overall quality of both dogs and bitches was good with the majority being typical and sound specimens, I was pleased with all my class winners and especially with those that took the major prizes. The Newfoundland is a large draft and water dog and needs to have the necessary breed type and correct construction to be able to do his job efficiently. Presentation of the breed over the last 10 years has changed dramatically and some scissoring skills left a lot to be desired, some had scissor marks horizontally across their forechests and some underlines were remarkably straight and level! A judge worth his salt should be able to see beneath the coat using his eyes and hands but that 'dodgy scissor cut' could make the difference when he/she is scanning down the line to make their final decision."