"A magnificent entry of 282 made up by 267 dogs, I believe the biggest single entry for the whole show! A few absentees, but that is always the way. What great strides this breed has made, high class Newfies are to be found through out the world these days. I well remember the early days when I first started judging the breed, they were practically a minority breed in this country, very few entries, with poor specimens.

It must be around 30 yes ago, I was judging in Denmark, where I had an entry of something around 40, the like of which I had never seen before. About the same time Graham Birch of Welfont fame, and Gordon Cutts & Paddy Galvin of the famous Merrybears, had the wisdom to go over to Denmark, and bring some fresh bloodlines in. The rest is history as they say, for a number of dedicated connoisseurs, have since continued to import, from Denmark, Italy, Germany and the U.S.A. etc, With the clever blending of the various bloodlines, one of our most ancient breeds has been brought back to a high standard of excellence world wide.

As I had a very large entry, I wanted to make sure that I judged every dog in detail. For this reason some of my notes are very brief on the individual winners. Suffice to say that in some classes, the first 3 could well change places on another day, and for that reason I will not criticise these very good examples of the breed. Faults I did find amongst unplaced dogs do need attention. A number of undershot jaws, the standard is very specific on this point. Light eyes, which detract from the whole expression. Loose eye rims, showing too much red haw. Quite a number of very short tails, not even reaching to the hock. Tails carried far too high on the move. Loose shoulders causing exaggerated pinning in front action. I merely highlight these faults, for the novice and newcomer exhibitors to the Newfoundland ring. They must aim high if they are to continue maintaining the high standard of the breed for the future. Temperament, which is paramount in any breed, was excellent.

My BOB is a new one to me and became a Champion on the day. I have no hesitation in saying that I have never judged a better Newfoundland than Merrybear Barry White, who is owner bred I see out of two Italian Imports, both of whom have won their British Champion titles. An impressive male of great sound bone and substance, combining that all important quality with a correct coat. His make, shape and balance are superb. When moving his free, strong, sound characteristic gait all appeal. His head piece is so good, with ideal bite, the darkest of eyes correctly placed and with tight rims. I felt this dog has to be Group material, and he did not disappoint later in the day, when Derek Smith placed his 2nd in the strong group. Barry White is still a young dog, and I am sure will be an interesting force in the show ring in future. ResCC was what I call a dog and a half! Stelamah Fire Onyx JW. I see out of two Merrybears, what a dominant line this is. Still a youngster he is quite magnificent and patterned closely on the BOB. Has the same type, quality, bone, and correct structure combined with powerful movement. Just a whisker between these two on the day. there were other dogs that were a joy to judge and made my day so enjoyable.

In bitches the CC went Ch. Mount Cook Tiger Lily, another import, this time from Denmark. I have judged her before at the WKC and did her well, but on that day she was too happy with her tail. Same excellent type as the dog, they could be brother and sister. She did everything that was asked and looked the part, has the darkest of eyes correctly placed. A top class Newfie lady. Into the ResCC place I took out the very smart Landseer marked Lossmaig Negative Equity, who showed quite a few how to move. Grand bone, and another scoring in make and shape. The most discriminating would say her colour could be clearer, but a mere detail. I make her a first class Landseer bitch.

Best Puppy, Brooklynbear Navarona. Another bred in the purple this youngster has all the essentials. I was really impressed by his general appearance and movement. Has to be one for the future.

Thank you exhibitors for bringing your wonderful dogs and giving me such a memorable day."