Contrary to my last breed notes, in DW, May 10, the breed entry for Lucy Byrne was 14 dogs, the 15th having been bred by the partnership which includes the judge. There was one absentee. Subject to KC confirmation we now have two new champions – both having the same mother (the late Ch Toveri Samppanja). Taking his third CC, with BOB was Clare and Brian Masters’ Toveri Peni – and I assume an emotional Clare will return the handkerchief I lent her. Basil’s three CCs were all with BOB and came as a veteran, two of them being awarded by breed specialist judges, and the third by a one-time frequent handler of the top dog of his day.

In bitches the new champion is T Piku from Hakojen, owned by Hannah and Rob Thompson and Angela and David Cavill.