NEFRA Northern England Flatcoated Retriever Association

The NEFRA Shared Venue Show, comprising both the Championship Show and Open Show, was held on 3rd May 2026 at Thirsk Mart, Yorkshire, and proved to be a thoroughly enjoyable and successful day. The event showcased the friendly, welcoming atmosphere that makes NEFRA gatherings so special, with members and visitors coming together to support the Association and enjoy two well-run shows at a shared venue.

Results from both the Championship Show and Open Show are available on the Fosse Data website, with links shared below.

• Open Show: https://www.fossedata.co.uk/show-results/northern-england-flatcoated-retriever-association-open-show-may-2026.aspx
• Championship Show: https://www.fossedata.co.uk/show-results/northern-england-flatcoated-retriever-association-championship-show-may-2026.aspx

Please note that one result does not appear on Fosse Data: Best Baby Puppy at the Championship Show was awarded to the dog Huyton’s Hightyne Hypasonic Missile, catalogue number 43. Baby puppy classes were very kindly sponsored by Eddy Harrison. The shows were sponsored by Hoddy’s Dog Food

Thank you to our judges, Helen Osborne-Brown and Carol Moore, and to everyone who attended and supported our double show. A special thank you also goes to Harry, who took thousands of photographs over the course of the day.

This event also marked the first NEFRA show involvement for our new Honorary Show Secretary, Gill Smitherman. Gill worked hard behind the scenes to support the smooth running of the day, and her contribution was very much appreciated. We are delighted to welcome her into the role and look forward to working with her at many future NEFRA events.

Anne Haley was also present at the show and was happy to chat throughout the day about all things working. Whether attendees were just starting out with training or considering entering a working test, Anne offered friendly, practical guidance and encouragement. Many found it a relaxed and approachable introduction to working activities, and it may well have opened the door to new and exciting opportunities for both handlers and their dogs. 🐾

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Championship Show

Championship Show – Top Results
Best in Show: Sh Ch Windyhollows Ragged Robin JW (Mr E W, Mrs P J and Miss N E Colson)
Reserve Best in Show: Hopevalley Morning Xanadu JW (Mrs M E Romeo-Dieste)
Best Opposite Sex in Show: Hopevalley Morning Xanadu JW (Mrs M E Romeo-Dieste)
Best Puppy in Show: Levliann Tit for Tat (Mrs L Varty-Lindsay)
Best Veteran in Show: Blacktoft Dancing On Ice with Windyhollows (AI) (Mrs P J and Ms H M Colson and Fox)
Best Liver in Show: Murphy’s Treat (Miss E Shepherdson)
Best Special Working in Show: Secret Blue Dress Basteta for Gemswin JW Sgwc (Imp Lt) (Mrs G and Mrs B Jacobs and Reynolds)
Reserve Dog CC: Ronevorg Dark Angel at Lussac JW SGWC ShCEx OSW (Mrs S May)
Reserve Bitch CC: Rainesgift Fair Play (Miss H M Watson)
Best Baby Puppy in Show: Huyton’s Hightyne Hypasonic Missile

Championship Show – Judge’s Critiques

I would like to thank the NEFRA committee for inviting me to judge their prestigious championship show. It was an honour and I had a fantastic day and thoroughly enjoyed myself.  Thank you to all exhibitors for entering their dogs under me, and for accepting my decisions so sportingly.  A quality entry made my decisions hard in some classes. I was looking for a medium sized bright and active dog, showing power and raciness, together with freeflowing driving movement, and with that Flatcoat exburance and outgoing personality.  I was pleased with my final line ups, finding what I like and showing true breed type. Exhibits were turned out beautifully. Movement is still an issue with some. Temperaments were exemplary, that lovely exuberant naughtiness was displayed all day and I had many a good wash as expected. I would like to thank my stewards Steve, Glynn and Rochelle, the committee and all the exhibitors for making it a very pleasurable day.

Baby Puppy Dog (1)

1^st, Huytons’ Hightyne Hypasonic Missile, 4 month old baby puppy having an enjoyable day out, nicely moulded head, clean neck and kind dark eye, level topline and moderate stifle, bone developing well, moved well for one so young.  Happy wagging tail, BBPIS

Baby Puppy Bitch (1)

1^st, Huytons’ Hightyne Remember My Name, litter sister and quite similar, lovely head and kind dark eye, brisket developing nicely and topline held on the move, not as settled as her brother on the move today but I think in the future she may push her brother. BBPB

Veteran Dog (5)

1^st, Mullins’ Everblack Booze Cruise at Dexanluc, masculine headed boy of one piece, kind expression and good length of muzzle, balanced front and rear angulation, moved freely around the ring with drive, which won him this class. BVD
2^nd, Scaifes’ Flatcharm Mr Fix It for Sehnnanjoy, medium sized boy close up to one, lovely moulded head with a twinkling eye, good bone and feet, well ribbed and short loin, moderate hind quarters and ever wagging tail.
3^rd, Fabrettis’ Wistaton Precious Love (ai) another medium sized male of breed type, good head and eye shape, balanced front and rear and well let down hocks, level topline held in the stand and on the move but not as free moving as 1 and 2 today.

Special Veteran (1)

1^st, Joyces’ Stranfaer Get Over It JW, loved this 10 ½ years young veteran, I have liked him  before and he is still a happy boy, medium size with a lovely moulded head, with the kindest of expressions and lovely dark eye, good bone and front construction, level topline and moderate turn of stifle into well let down hocks, moved with drive.

Minor Puppy (1)

1^st, Tierlings’ Llantrussa Hawk at Karaholme, Liked this minor puppy boy, handsome quality 6 month old, lovely moulded head with a cheeky intelligent expression, nicely balanced throughout and stood foursquare, correct maturity for age, level topline, moved well when settled, pushed in the puppy challenge but not as positive on the move as the puppy winner. I am sure he has a bright future ahead of him.

Puppy Dog (4)

1^st, Mcquillans’ Flattastic James Sullivan, lovely headed male, moulded one piece head, good muzzle length and dark eye, good reach of neck, front assembly, spring of rib and strong loin, level topline and moderate hindquarters, lovely tail action and moved well on a free stride.BPD
2^nd, Hollands’ Flatcharm Mr Brisk, medium sized male with a lovely moulded head and a soft expression, lovely skull to muzzle ratio, adequate bone for age, balanced front and rear angulation with a good spring of rib, close to one but not moving as freely as 1^st and not as  outgoing, I am sure this will settle with time. 
3^rd, Salts’ Culcrieff’s Ferntower Glen of Wetnoses, another typical male puppy, good head, and muzzle length, reach of neck and straight front legs with good bone, moderate throughout with an ever wagging tail.

Junior Dog (4)

1^st Scaifes’ Flatcharm Bing a Ling at Shennanjoy, Racy young male, happy boy, classic head with a kind dark eye, good reach of neck and front assembly, needs time to fill his frame, moderate hind quarters. Moved out well.
2^nd, Mullins’ Seaheart Fabian at Dexanluc, a lovely boy again of good quality, lovely head with a soft expression, good bone and maturing correctly for age, similar applies as to the winner just preferred the exuberance and movement on the day of 1st
3^rd Salts’ Culcrieff’s Ferntower Glen at Wetnoses (3^rd Puppy)

Yearling Dog (3)

1^st Walker & Roberts’ Gloi Dubh Mormaer JW lovely moderate male with a lovely head, a soft melting expression and dark eye, correct muzzle to skull proportions, ears well set on,clean neck into well layback shoulders, good width of brisket, a balanced boy with good quality bone and level topline, moderate turn of stifle, moved out well.
2^nd Gales’ Willowswind Countryman, a taller racy boy with a beautiful classical and head and kind eye, a hint of naughtiness in his expression, good length of neck and moderate hind quarters, longer cast than my winner, a little narrow all through, has a good free flowing movement.
3^rd Lilly & Reynards’ Rainesgift Play On Words, workmanlike boy of medium size, has a kindly disposition, not as refined in the head as the first two, level topline and short loin, balanced all through with good bone, moved well.

Novice Dog (3)

1^st Scaifes’ Flatcharm Bing A Ling at Shennanjoy (1^st Junior)
2^nd Tierlings’ Llantrussa Hawk at Karaholme (1^st Minor Puppy)
3^rd Gales’ Willowswind Countryman (2^nd Yearling)

Graduate Dog (3,1a)

1^st Blains’ Rotherfield Made to Last at Steelriver, liked this boy a lot and I look forward to watching him mature, lovely classical male head with muzzle of good length, kind dark eye and a soft melting expression, neat ears, good reach of neck and shoulder placement, lovely quality bone and feet, lovely spring of rib into short loin, moderate turn of stifle and well let down hocks, moved out freely with drive. 
2^nd Brights’ Hopevalley Morning Magic JW, another lovely young male, with a lovely moulded head, kind expression with a dark eye and small neat ears, balanced front and rear angulation, slightly longer cast and not as together as my winner on the day, moved well, just needs time

Post Graduate Dog (3)

1^st Varty-Lindsays’ Levliann Big Bang, Racy boy with a naughty expression and a twinkle in his eye, beautiful head with a kind expression and well filled muzzle, neat ears and balanced in profile, good bone and feet, well sprung ribs and short loin, with level topline held on the move and in profile, tail used well on the move, moved with drive.
2^nd Walker & Roberts’ Gloi Dubh Christopher Robin JW, another moderate dog of lovely construction, head of good quality and a soft expression with dark eye, good length of neck, width of brisket, bone and feet, balanced angulations fore and aft, lovely moderate hind quarters, liked his overall balance but carrying a little extra weight today.
3^rd Shepherdsons’ Murphys Treat, a liver boy, with a kind expression, good reach of neck, lighter framed, would prefer a little more of him, happy boy enjoying his day out.  Moved at one with his handler. BLIS

Limit Dog (6) A lovely class 

1^st Clarks’ Hurstclough Night Owl at Flanova, racy medium sized boy, masculine head with a kind dark eye and soft expression, good length of muzzle well filled in, neat ears, lovely length of neck into a good layback of shoulder, good width of brisket and quality bone, well ribbed up into strong loin, moderate hindquarters,  he moved freely around the ring with reach and drive which won him the class.
2^nd Halls’ Hightyne Night Train, very close up to 1, I wrote similar applies, kind headed male, with a hint of mischief expression, good length of muzzle, shoulders well laid back and good brisket, bone and feet. Balanced in profile with a level topline held on the move with a lovely tail action.
3^rd Egginton & Davis’ Pajanbeck Think of Me (ai) another lovely boy, not overdone in any way, medium sized male with a lovely head and kind dark eye, good reach of neck, balanced front and rear angulation and a level topline, moderate hindquarters, moved well once settled, I judged him as a puppy and he has matured on nicely.

Open Dog (5)

1^st Colsons’ Sh Ch Windyhollows Ragged Robin JW, this boy caught my eye in this class, a quality dog all in moderation, shown in full gleaming coat in great condition, not overdone or exaggerated in any way, beautifully moulded classical one piece head, kind dark almond eye with a soft melting expression and that hint of naughtiness, good length of muzzle, well filled in, good width of brisket, straight front legs with quality bone on well padded tight feet, lovely spring of rib into short loin, moderate turn of stifle with a topline held on the move and in the stand with the tail clean off the back, he moved effortlessly around the ring powered by moderate hind quarters, free flowing movement on an easy stride, had such presence, ever wagging tail, he stood out in the challenge and it was a pleasure to award him the DCC and BIS
2^nd Walker & Roberts’ Gloi Dubh Just One Look ShCEx, I really liked this boy,  kind headed male with a good length of muzzle, lovely soft expression, neat ears well set on and clean neck, good bone and feet, lovely front assembly, good spring of rib, short loin and moderate rear angulation, hocks well let down, a level topline held both standing and in profile. Lovely tail action and moved freely, would prefer a little less weight on him.
3^rd Burroughs’ I know Him So Well at Rokaness JW, workmanlike male of medium size, good male head with dark correct shaped eye, good length of muzzle, good front andshoulder placement, balanced front and rear angulation, moderate hind quarters, slightly longer cast, moved well when settled.

Champion Dog (4,1a)

1^st Bellamys’ Ch Woodfinch Masquarade, lovely moulded one piece head on this boy, soft expression and kind dark eye, good front, bone and feet, a lovely depth chest with moderate hindquarters, tail clean off the back, moved freely in profile. Presented in a full coat.
2^nd Anson & Mcmanus’ Sh Ch Rotherfield Secret Code, liked this quality boy, lovely male head, good length of muzzle and kind dark eye, good front, and spring of rib, moderate hind quarters, carrying a little too much weight today. Not as positive on the move as 1^st.
3^rd Youens’ Sh Ch Riverglide Secret Reprieve, masculine boy with a good head with equal muzzle to skull proportions, kind expression and soft dark eye, clean neck and prominent brisket, good bone, balanced throughout with good tail action. Very happy boy but left hiscoat at home today.  

Special Liver Dog (1)

1^st Shepherdsons’ Murphy’s Treat (3^rd Post Graduate)

Special Working Dog (2)

1^st Mays’ Ronevorg Dark Angel at Lussac JW Sgwc, ShCEx, OSW masculine headed medium sized workmanlike male but not course in anyway, loved his mischievousness and overall showmanship, ever wagging his tail, kind dark correct shape eye and muzzle well filled in, ears well set on and good shoulder placement, good front assembly, straight front legs with good oval bone and feet, lovely spring of rib into short loin moderate hindquarters and well muscled. Shown in hard condition and coat of good quality, moved with drive effortlessly around the ring, I was pleased to award him RDCC
2^nd Foxs’ Westoncruive Ace of Spades by Blacktoft JW, another lovely male of good quality, not quite as finished as 1, kind headed boy with a dark eye and good length of muzzle, good reach of neck and balanced front and rear quarters, hocks well let down and good tail action, moved well.

Special Beginners Dog (1)

1^st Hazelton & Vaseys’ Telurn Ghost of You for Hazeyvasey, up to size male with a good head and soft expression, muzzle well filled in, ears well set on, good reach of neck balanced front and rear angulation, shown in lovely condition, moved freely with a level topline.

Veteran Bitch (6)

1^st Colsons & Foxs’  Blacktoft Dancing on Ice with Windyhollows (ai), Beautiful 9 years young medium size feminine bitch, lovely elegant one piece head with a soft melting intelligent expression from her dark almond eyes, ears small and well set on, lovely reach of neck into a good layback of shoulder, good front assembly, lovely bone and feet, gradual spring of rib into a short square loin, moderate turn of stifle with well let down hocks, powered around the ring. I have done her well as a youngster and she didn’t disappoint in veteran, very happy to award her BVIS
2^nd Hollands’ Sh Ch Woodland Highland Fairy for Flatcharm, slightly taller but another feminine bitch of quality with a lovely moulded head, correct muzzle to skull proportions, kind dark eye and soft expression, she has a hint of mischief about her, lovely reach of neck into a good front assembly, well ribbed to strong quarters, sound mover but not quite the drive as my winner today
3^rd Rees’ Ravencrag Jump Over The Moon to Eskwinds, workmanlike bitch with a soft kind expression, dark eye and ears well set on, good reach of neck and balanced throughout fore and aft, moderate hindquarters and level topline, not as positive on the move.

Minor Puppy Bitch (3)

1^st Varty-Lindsays’ Levliann Tit for Tat, loved this puppy when she entered the ring, such presence for a baby, 6 months old quality puppy, super feminine head, kind dark almond eye with a soft melting expression, very balanced for a puppy, good front assembly, spring of rib and balanced hind quarters, moved soundly with drive for one so young. Pleased to award her BPB & BPIS
2^nd Chambers’ Hototo Edge of Glory, another lovely puppy unlucky to meet 1, lovely moulded head and soft expression, dark eye, good reach of neck, bone developing well, balanced front and rear angulation, level topline and good tail action, preferred movement of 1 today.
3^rd Rees’ Braemist Chase the Moonbeam over Eskwinds, pretty headed bitch, not as together as the others today, lovely head with a kind eye and soft expression, correct front assembly, good spring of rib and short loin, moderate hind quarters, moved well when settled.

Puppy Bitch (3)

1^st Dunnetts’ Hoedun Does It Matter, workmanlike bitch with a good head, dark eye and neat ears, good reach of neck and balanced front and rear angulation, moved soundly around the ring with level topline
2^nd Hollands’ Flatcharm Misabel, preferred this bitch’s head and type, very feminine and typical of the breed, kind dark eye and cheeky expression, correct rib to loin ratio and moderate hind quarters, not as together as 1, just needs time, I preferred the movement of 1 on the day
3^rd Phairs’ Elara Orbital Wonder, larger size liver bitch, not as refined in the head as the others, good bone, would prefer a bit more neck, level topline, movement a bit all over the place, needs time to come together.

Junior Bitch (9)

1^st Watsons’ Rainesgift Fair Play, racy type, beautiful head on this bitch, dark almond eye lovely skull to muzzle ratio, neat ears well set on, lovely reach of neck and shoulder placement, good width of  brisket and oval bone, well sprung ribs, moderate hind quarters and level topline with good tail action, moved around the ring with ease, although young, she is balanced and in lovely proportions, moved with drive in the challenge, pleased to award her the RCC and look forward to watching her future.
2^nd Walker & Roberts’ Seaheart Frida at Gloi, similar applies as above, a lovely head and soft expression, dark eye, balanced fore and aft, level topline and lovely head carriage on the move, moderate hind quarters and well let down hocks. I wrote balanced throughout, quality young lady unlucky to meet 1 today. 
3^rd Mays’ Lussac Bewitched, smaller type than the first two, but at just over 12 months fully deserved her place here, lovely melting expression, dark almond eye, good front asssembly, bone and feet, gradual spring of rib into short loin, level topline, moved out well. Correct maturity for age, just needs time.

Yearling Bitch (11,2a)

1^st Stevensons’ Steelriver Pure Majness Ir Jch, quality bitch with a lovely moulded head, dark eye and kind expression, lovely bone, good front and layback of shoulder, well sprung ribs and short loin into moderate hind quarters, hocks well let down.  Good tail set and moved out and back freely with good drive from the rear quarters.
2^nd Knight & Jacobs’ Gemswin Handbag N’gladrags JW, loved this bitch, beautiful head, dark almond eye and that hint of naughtiness, good reach of neck and front assembly, good bone and feet, balanced throughout with moderate turn of stifle and short straight hocks, moved well with drive but sadly left her jacket at home today.
3^rd Wallers’ Flatcharm Banana Hammock, I started my notes with naughty but nice, lovely head and melting expression, good bone and feet, balanced front and rear angulation, another with lovely action on the move, these 3 could all change places on different days.

Novice Bitch (7,1a)

1^st Mcquades’ Maddouse Dimonds R’Forever, a pretty bitch with good substance, soft expression with dark eye and good length of muzzle, good front angulation, and quality bone, well sprung ribs into short loin, moderate turn of stifle and strong hocks, moved well around the ring
2^nd Chambers’ Hototo’s Edge of Glory (2^nd minor puppy)
3^rd Knight & Jacobs’ Gemswin Chasing Rainbows, lovely bitch but carrying a little extraweight today, lovely head with good skull to muzzle ratio, kind dark almond eye, good bone and feet, balanced front and rear angulation with strong hind quarters and lovely tail set with good tail action, not as positive on the move as the first two.

Graduate Bitch (6,1a)

1^st Romeo-Diestes’ Hopevalley Morning Xanadu JW, elegant type moderate bitch with no exaggerations, beautifully moulded one piece head, laughing kind expression, with a dark eye and that twinkling hint of mischief, good reach of neck, lovely bone and feet, deep chest with a lovely spring of rib into short loin, correct hind quarters with hocks well let down, moved out on an even stride, holding her topline on the move and in standing, correct tail set, shown in beautiful condition, came into her own in the challenge,  moving out freely with reach anddrive,  delighted to award her the CC, RBIS and BOS, looking forward to watching her future.
2^nd Mcquades’ Gemswin River of Dreams, another medium sized bitch of good quality, lovely one piece head, dark eye and sweet soft expression, good reach of neck bone and feet, balanced front and rear angulation, not the drive on the move as the winner today.
3^rd Punters’ Benvellyn Zion at Arrelladorum, another bitch of good type, lovely moulded head and soft expression and kind dark eye, good neck and shoulder placement, bone and feet, good depth of chest and level topline, not as positive on the move as the others today.

Post Graduate Bitch (6, 2a)

1^st Walker & Roberts’ Gloi Dubh Lady Muck JW, close decision here between 1 and 2, beautiful classical head on this medium sized bitch,  dark eye with a soft gentle expression, good bone and developed brisket, good spring of rib, short loin, moderate strong hind quarters, I would prefer a little less weight on her but this did not hamper her free flowing movement with drive, her happy disposition is a joy to watch.
2^nd Priors’ Blacktoft Avelino at Finnashember, another beautiful quality bitch of medium size, similar applies to above, lovely one piece moulded head, kind dark eye of correct shape, neat ears well set on, balanced front and rear angulation, hocks well let down, a little out of coat today, moved well around the ring.
3^rd Egginton & Davis’ Pajanbeck One Moment in Time (ai), medium correct sized bitch with a soft feminine head, expression and dark eye, presents a balanced picture with a level topline, not quite the drive on the move as the first two.

Limit Bitch (12, 2a) a quality class

1^st Clarks’ Riverglide Santa Barbara at Flanova, correct size medium bitch, full of mischief, beautiful head, soft melting expression with a dark eye, lovely reach of neck and front assembly, well spring ribs into strong short loin, moderate hind quarters and ever wagging tail, although a little out of coat, moved effortlessly around the ring which won her this class.
2^nd Chambers’ Hototo Pretty Ballerina JW, lovely balanced bitch, a pretty one piece head, with a kind expression and dark eye, good reach of neck and shoulder placement, good bone and feet, good depth of chest, moderate turn of stifle, level topline and lovely tail action, moved well with drive. I have done her well in the past and she didn’t disappoint. Preferred the head of 1^st.
3^rd Watsons’ Rainesgift New Sensation, another medium sized quality bitch, a little on the lean side today but this did not detract from her quality, soft kindly feminine head with a melting expression and dark eye, good length of muzzle, straight front legs with good bone and feet, balanced throughout, good front and rear angulation, unlucky to meet the others on good form today, places will change on different days.

Open Bitch (5,1a)

1^st Jones’ Sh Ch Benvellyn Sequoia JW, a medium sized bitch of classical type, beautiful moulded head, kind dark eye and soft expression, good front and shoulder placement, gradual spring of rib into moderate hind quarters, hocks well let down, moved well around the ring.
2^nd Andersons’ Sh Ch Kazval Angel in Your Sky over Feldkirk, I have done her well before, lovely moulded one piece head, with correct muzzle to skull proportions, with a mischievous expression and kind dark eye, good front assembly bone and feet, deep chest and short loin, shown in beautiful condition, not as positive on the move today as 1st
3^rd Holmes’ Rydanah Devils in The Detail, another of my type today, sadly left her coat behind, beautiful head with the softest of expressions, dark eye and muzzle well filled in, good reach of neck, lovely bone and feet, balanced fore and aft, moderate hind quarters and that ever wagging tail.

Champion Bitch (5) Lovely class of Champions all worthy and splitting hairs on places

1^st Matthews’ Sh Ch Gemswin She’s Got The Look, loved her,  beautiful bitch with a classical head and cheeky expression, balanced throughout and no exaggerations, dark eye, good muzzle to skull proportions, lovely front assembly and shoulder placement, good bone and feet, correct spring of rib into short square loin and moderate hind quarters with hocks well down, level topline held on the move and in profile, shown in beautiful condition, moved with drive effortlessly around the ring.
2^nd Hytons’ Sh Ch Hightyne Ramblin Rose, a lovely medium bitch who is of good type, classic feminine head, beautifully balanced, kind dark almond eye and an intelligent expression, good bone and balanced front and rear angualtions, moved freely around the ring using her tail to good advantage. 
3^rd Romeo-Diestes’ Sh Ch Hopevalley Morning Wicked, another bitch I have admired from the ringside and lovely to go over her, medium sized not overdone in anyway, moulded one piece head with a dark eye and sweet expression, clean neck and good shoulder placement, gradual spring of rib and short loin, moderate turn of stifle and well let down hocks, beautifully turned out, moved out well. 

Special Liver Bitch (1)

1^st Phairs’ Elara Orbital Wonder (3^rd in Puppy)

Special Working Bitch (1)

1^st Jacobs & Reynolds’ Secret Blue Dress Basteta for Gemswin Jw Sgwc (Imp Lt)workmanlike medium sized bitch with a lovely head, kind eye and expression with a hint of naughtiness, balanced front and rear angualtions with good bone, good spring of rib and moderate hind quarters and ever wagging tail, moved with drive BWIS

Special Beginners Bitch (10,1a)

1^st Markillies’ Hopevalley Morning Minuet JW although unplaced in Junior, this bitch stood out in this class, she has a one piece moulded head, with a dark eye, slightly round, but still a soft expression, small well set on ears, good reach of neck and balanced front and rear angulation, deep chest, short loin and moderate hind quarters, moved better in this class than in Junior
2^nd Mcquades’ Gemswin River of Dreams (2^nd Graduate)
3^rd Punters’ Benvellyn Zion at Arrelladorum (3^rd Graduate)

Judge Helen Osborne-Brown

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Open Show

Open Show – Top Results
Best in Show: Hopevalley Morning Xanadu JW (Mrs M E Romeo-Dieste)
Reserve Best in Show: Levliann Big Bang (Mrs L Varty-Lindsay)
Best Opposite Sex in Show: Levliann Big Bang (Mrs L Varty-Lindsay)
Best Puppy in Show: Culcrieff’s Ferntower Glen of Wetnoses (Mr D E J and Mrs M A Salt)
Best Veteran in Show: Everblack Booze Cruise at Dexanluc (Mr M and Mrs P Mullins)
Best Liver in Show: Murphy’s Treat (Miss E Shepherdson)
Best Working in Show: Kimberfield in Love Again (Mrs R Richards)
Reserve Best Dog: Everblack Booze Cruise at Dexanluc (Mr M and Mrs P Mullins)
Reserve Best Bitch: Satinbaze Tea for Two with Shelkaru (Mrs J Pacey)
Brace: 1st – Mrs J A McQuade

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Open Show – Judge’s Critiques

I was delighted to receive the invitation from the Committee of NEFRA to judge today and having been looking forward to it for sometime I can say my day certainly lived up to expectations with such happy and exuberant dogs and their equally pleasant owners. My thanks to the Committee for such a lovely day and to my hard working stewards Kathryn and Michele for keeping everything running so smoothly.

For me a gundog always needs to have correct feet as open toes can be susceptible to damage so this is something I was quite keen on, I also noticed a number of tails that were carried well above the level of the back which did spoil the outline a bit. That said I was extremely pleased with both of my line ups and especially my eventual top winners.

MPuppy Bitch (3)
1st Hototo’s Edge of Glory (Miss C J Chambers) Well built 8 month full of fun, she has a feminine expression from a bright, well shaped eye and smart ear. She has lovely bone and substance for her age with a promising outline and tight feet. On the move she was settled and true.
2nd Levliann Tit for Tat (Mrs L Varty-Lindsay) Precocious 6 month with such a cheeky look to her, loved her head with a good length of muzzle and tidy well set ear. Her forequarters are developing nicely with good bone. She is a touch longer in body at the moment but she is such a baby things are bound to change in time.
3rd Braemist Chase The Moonbeam over Eskwinds (Mr K D & Mrs S J Rees)

Puppy Bitch (2)
1st Hoedun Does It Matter (Mr P Dunnett) 10 month bitch with a nicely moulded head, she has a sweet expression and was using her ears really well. Smaller framed than some but she has a lovely outline, clean through the neck and shoulders with a strong topline and good width to her stifle giving ground covering movement with plenty of forward reach
2nd Levliann Tit for Tat (Mrs L Varty-Lindsay) (repeat)

Junior Bitch (8, 1abs)
1st Seaheart Frida at Gloi JW (Ms E J & Dr L Walker & Roberts) Eye catching 17 month bitch with size and substance. She has a pretty head with a bright, well shaped eye and tidy ears used to advantage. I loved her shape and outline with correct rib under a firm topline, lovely bone and the best of feet. On the move she showed reach and drive, one I considered for top honours
2nd Hopevalley Morning Minuet JW (Mrs D R Markillie) Pushed the winner hard, just not as developed in forechest at the moment. Another beautifully moulded head with a strong jaw and cheeky eye. She flows through the neck to the shoulder and has a firm coupling leading to a well shaped rear giving ground covering movement.
3rd Perrymel Pearl Mist (Mr A P, Mrs H C & Miss M B Osborne-Brown)

Yearling Bitch (5)
1st Pajanbeck Hold My Halo (Mr P & Mrs J & Miss S & Mrs V Egginton & Egginton & Egginton & Davis) Out of the cards in a strong junior class but much more settled here and it showed in the much smoother reach and drive when she moved. She has a balanced head with a well set ear, good bone and tidy feet. She has depth to her chest with correct ribbing. Put down in excellent coat and condition.
2nd Badcall Midwinter Dream at Inchstellie JW (Mrs F Mackessack-Leitch) Very mature girl in body showing depth and power. She has a bright eye of good colour and shape with a strong jaw and broad skull. On the move her strength and drive were clear to see. Another in full coat and shining condition.
3rd Gemswin Wherever I Lay My Hat at Finnashember (Mrs A & Dr I Prior)

Novice Bitch (5)
1st Hoedun Does It Matter (Mr P Dunnett) (repeat)
2nd Maddouse Dimonds R’forever (Mrs J A Mcquade) Well made balanced head with a correct shaped eye of good colour. Firm through the neck with good depth to her rib and enough bone. Moderate in stifle she showed a steady movement
3rd Flanova Black Magic Woman TAF (Miss E M Warren)

Graduate Bitch (6, 1abs)
1st Hopevalley Morning Xanadu JW (Mrs M E Romeo-Dieste) Sometimes you see a dog and you get goose bumps, this was one of those times. Top draw bitch full of class and quality, She has the most beautifully moulded head with bright expressive eyes and tidy ears. All parts of her flowed beautifully together with the correct amount of bone and lovely tight feet. Standing she presented a great picture and when she moved she proved she wasn’t just a looker with strong, clean, driving movement covering the ground with ease. Put down in hard condition with a gleaming coat in a strong line up of bitches I could not look passed her BB and BIS
2nd Satinbaze Tea for Two with Shelkaru (Mrs J Pacey) Elegant bitch with a pretty head and bright well shaped eye. She has a cracking front assembly with the best of shoulders, strong in topline with depth and correct spring of rib. Just the right amount of bone to give the substance that I was looking for. Her well shaped stifles and firmly muscled rear meant she showed power and drive but still being clean and tidy. She pulled it out of the bag in the challenge to take RBB
3rd Ronevorg Queen of Attitude (Mrs J & Mr A Singleton)

Post Graduate Bitch (2)
1st Blacktoft Avelino at Finnashember (Mrs A & Dr I Prior) Honest bitch in fit, hard condition. She is standard sized with correct bone and lovely tight feet, she has a pleasing head with a bright eye and firm underjaw. Good depth to her chest and a short coupling leading to a strong, muscled rear meant she showed excellent, tidy movement
2nd Caci’s The Jewel of June at Inchstellie (Imp Swe) JW (Mrs F Mackessack-Leitch) Feminine bitch with a well shaped eye and ear. She has a deep chest and good bone with a well made rear, moved out well but not quite with the power of my winner

Limit Bitch (9, 1abs)
A very strong class of bitches which is very positive for the breed as these are the producers of the future.
1st Pajanbeck Nine to Five (ai) (Mr P & Mrs J & Miss S & Mrs V Egginton & Egginton & Egginton & Davis) This girl has it all, just the right size and shape with a moulded feminine head set off by a tidy ear. She is balanced in angulation with depth of body and correct rib. Well muscled quarters gave plenty of drive which also brought her into consideration for top honours.
2nd Hototo Pretty Ballerina JW (Miss C J Chambers) Another classy bitch of lovely type with a balanced, pretty head and firm underjaw. She presented a strong outline with pleasing angulation and good bone. Moved clean and steady.
3rd Satinbaze Tranquil Sea (Miss J M Hedges)

Open Bitch (3, 1abs)
1st Sh Ch Hopevalley Morning Wicked (Mrs M E Romeo-Dieste) Stylish bitch in gleaming coat. She has a typey, feminine head and lovely brown eye. Her front assembly is excellent with good layback of shoulder and return of upperarm. Very deep in chest with correct ribbing and a broad rear. On the move she was the full package, handled to great advantage but when it came to the challenge she was just outshone by the younger girls being a tiny bit heavier than my ideal.
2nd Levelmoor Allo Allo avec Rokaness (Mr R G & Mrs V K Burroughs) A different type of bitch to 1st but so well made. She has that cheeky look that just makes you smile with a bright, well shaped eye and tidy ear. Strong in topline with plenty of rib underneath and a short coupling. Steady and clean on the move, just preferred the feet of 1st today.

Veteran Bitch (5)
I love to see these stately ladies having a grand day out and showing the youngsters a thing or two.
1st Hameldowntor Moon River in Manhattan (imp) (Mrs R Richards) Well up to size but so balanced and a joy to watch on the move, she really covered the ground with lots of drive. Beautiful head and eye with a lovely earset. Strong and firm in topline with good bone and tight feet.
2nd Hopevalley Morning Rainbow JW ShCEx OSW VW (Mrs M E Romeo-Dieste) Close up to 1 in a lot of ways with a pleasing shape and angulation on the stand. Soft eye and a tidy ear set her head off nicely. Balanced in size and substance with neat legs and feet which she put to good use on the move.
3rd Blacktoft Dancing On Ice with Windyhollows (ai) (Mrs P J & Ms H M Colson & Fox)

Special Veteran Bitch (0)

Special Liver Bitch (0)

Special Working Bitch (3)
As I expected these girls were presented in tip top condition with plenty of muscle
1st Kimberfield in Love Again (Mrs R Richards) Substantial bitch with a strong, clean outline. Well shaped head with good underjaw, firm through the neck and shoulder with a lovely forechest. Stood on clean legs and good feet, covered the ground smoothly with drive BSW
2nd Skybrook If by Chance (ai) (Ms A & Mrs C Haley & Simons) Another well made bitch in excellent condition. Nicely moulded head with a kind eye. She has a strong topline with plenty of rib underneath it and a well muscled rear. Calm and steady on the move.
3rd Secret Blue Dress Basteta for Gemswin JW Sgwc (Imp Lt) (Mrs G & Mrs B Jacobs & Reynolds)

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MPuppy Dog (1)
1st Llantrussa Hawk at Karaholme (Mrs R Tierling) Just 6 months and very much a baby who was having the best of times which is such a pleasure to see. He has a lovely shape standing and a bright, well shaped eye. Despite his enthusiasm he settled to move out with purpose

Puppy Dog (3)
1st Culcrieff’s Ferntower Glen of Wetnoses (Mr D E J & Mrs M A Salt) 11 months of age and maturing on all the right lines. He has a classical head with a dark eye and bright, cheeky expression. Whilst he does need to drop and fill I was impressed with his lovely construction and correct rib with nicely boned legs and tight feet. Once he realised he wasn’t supposed to canter around the ring he moved out smoothly on an even ground covering the ground which earned him BPIS
2nd Flattastic James Sullivan (Mr P A & Mrs J E Mcquillan) Pushed the winner hard but still needs to develop in forechest at the moment. He presented the correct racy outline with lovely bone and neat feet, pleasing rib under a firm topline and strong coupling meant he moved out well with a tidy profile movement.
3rd Zetlandgun Black Jack (Miss Amy Tattersall)

Junior Dog (3)
1st Seaheart Fabian at Dexanluc (Mr M & Mrs P Mullins) Looking at my catalogue after I see he is litter brother to the winner of junior bitch and very much of the same calibre. He is a quality dog shown in marvelous condition with a classy, racy outline. Masculine but kind head with a correct eye. Cracking construction throughout which showed in his lovely, smooth, ground covering movement. He was in consideration when I was looking for my best dog.
2nd Culcrieff’s Ferntower Glen of Wetnoses (Mr D E J & Mrs M A Salt) (repeat)
3rd Zetlandgun Black Jack (Miss Amy Tattersall) Both handler and dog were at their first show, they conducted themselves admirably

Yearling Dog (2, 1abs)
1st Rainesgift Play On Words (Ms C & Mr N Lilly & Reynard) Well built dog with substantial bone just on the right side of being overdone. Masculine in head with a well shaped eye. He is firm and deep in rib with well muscled thighs. A little too interested in the floor in the move but I managed to see enough

Novice (2)
1st Llantrussa Hawk at Karaholme (Mrs R Tierling) (repeat)
2nd Lizzlog The Jolly Friar (Mrs D Barnes) Well up to size with a balanced moulded head and dark eye. Shown in really good coat and condition with a firm topline. A bit too proud of his tail on the move but showed a good profile action.

Graduate Dog (3, 1abs)
1st Hopevalley Morning Magic JW (Miss H Bright) Buoyant, enthusiastic young dog with a strong, racy outline. He has an excellent, well balanced head with a strong underjaw. Firm moderate neck flows well into a lovely front assembly. Very well balanced on the stand just a little too energetic on the move which made him look a touch untidy but when he settled he certainly moved with style.
2nd Lizzlog The Jolly Friar (Mrs D Barnes) (repeat)

Post Graduate Dog (1)
1st Levliann Big Bang (Mrs L Varty-Lindsay) I must applaude the young handler of this boy, she certainly got the very best out of him.
I loved his classic well moulded head with a bright, correctly shaped eye and smart, tidy ear used to advantage. He has a cracking outline showing strength without lumber. Balanced angulation with correct ribbing and lovely bone and tight feet. On the move he covered the ground smoothly, at one with his handler, clean and true in all directions. BD RBIS

Limit Dog (5, 1abs)
1st Gloi Dubh Kristofer Robin JW (Ms E J & Dr L Walker & Roberts) Balanced dog of correct size and in great condition. He has a masculine, moulded head with good underjaw and a bright well shaped eye. Powerful but smooth through the neck and shoulders leading to a firm topline with neat coupling and moderate well muscled rear. He moved out well showing a great profile action.
2nd Pajanbeck Think of Me (ai) (Mr P & Mrs J & Miss S & Mrs V Egginton & Egginton & Egginton & Davis) Upstanding, enthusiastic dog with a strong head and brown eye. He is of good size and substance with clean bone and a strong topline. He moved out much more settled than I expected giving a tidy performance.
3rd Blacktoft Brindisi by Buckleyhill (Mrs H J & Mr I M Buckley)

Open Dog (2)
1st I Know Him So Well at Rokaness JW (Mr R G & Mrs V K Burroughs) Stronger headed dog with a powerful underjaw and bright brown eye. Pleasing through the neck and shoulder with plenty of forechest and correct ribbing. Firm coupling and balanced rear gave strength on the move showing a lovely profile action.
2nd Seaheart Daegan at Dexanluc (Mr M & Mrs P Mullins) Classic head on this boy with lovely moulding and a well set ear. He has depth and spring of rib with matching angulation front and rear. Not quite as tidy on the move as my winner today and a little too proud of his tail.

Veteran Dog (4)
Another class of wonderful veterans showing the longevity of the breed
1st Everblack Booze Cruise at Dexanluc (Mr M & Mrs P Mullins) I loved this boys shape and outline, he has a beautifully moulded classic headpiece so well balanced with a bright eye and tidy ear. His front assembly was a joy to run my hands over just flowing from one part to the next and this carried on over the rest of him. On the move he showed lovely reach and true groundcovering action. RBD BVIS
2nd Ch Woodfinch Masquerade (Mr D & Mrs R Bellamy) Very eye catching dog put down in fabulous condition but just a little less lithesome than my winner. A little more masculine in head than my personal preference but he has a lovely eye and firm underjaw. He has strength and power throughout with a classy outline that is firm and well coupled with a well muscled rear put to good use on the move.
3rd Wistaston Precious Love (ai) (Ms G Fabretti)

Special Veteran Dog (1)
1st Stranfaer Get over It JW (Mr D & Mrs K Joyce) 10 years old and still showing how it should be done. He has lost his topline a tiny bit but that does not detract from his excellent angulation and tidy bone. On the move he certainly didn’t look his years really powering around the ring.

Special Liver Dog (1)
1st Murphy’s Treat (Miss E Shepherdson) This boy was quite distracted today which did affect his overall appearance as he seemed to lose his shape. He has a long, lean head with a bright eye. Firm in topline which promised strength to his movement but his distraction did affect how he covered the ground

Special Working Dog (0)

Brace (3, 1abs)
1st Mrs J A Mcquade
2nd Mrs M E Romeo-Dieste

Judge Carol Moore (Gadhelic)

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NEFRA Full Day Training Day – 26th July 2026

NEFRA is holding a full-day training event on 26th July 2026 at a fantastic venue with trainer Garry Ellison.

📍 Venue: Geoff Saints Training Ground, Haighton, Cow Hill, PR2

This training day is primarily aimed at novice dogs, however we may be able to accommodate other experience levels where possible, so please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Please fill out the online form below to register your interest. Entry Form HERE.

Redhall Farm in Crewe is a fantastic venue, and we’re excited to be returning for another training day.

The full-day session will be led by Garry Ellison, offering an excellent opportunity to learn from an experienced trainer. To ensure a high-quality experience, the group will be limited to just 8 participants. Places are available on a first-come, first-served basis and will only be secured once payment has been received.

To reserve your spot, please enter online here.

At the recent AGM, Gillian Smitherman has agreed to try and fill the boots of the wonderful outgoing Show Secretary in Paula Goulette.

Gill has taken on the role with immediate effect, and with the support and help of the outgoing Show Secretary, and the rest of the committee, we are sure she will put her own stamp on the position and do a great job in taking NEFRA forward in the foreseeable future.

Gill brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role, being a UK and Overseas Championship Show Judge, Breeder, Exhibitor with a good understanding of working events. She also has a strong fundraising background, which I am sure will also help her in the role, whilst running her own businesses, which I know many have bought items from.

Gill’s Family have long been associated with NEFRA, with her Mum being a founder member.

So we warmly welcome Gill to the team, and hope that there will be a thriving future for NEFRA

Good luck with this new challenge.

Farewell to Paula from her Show Secretary role.

At the recent AGM Paula Goulette stepped down as Show Secretary after a wonderful 15 years of dedication, hard-work and service to this NEFRA role.

Paula has been an amazing officer on the committee, and the rest of us are sad to see her step down, but with a wonderful legacy of great shows and events, Paula has decided that it is now time to do so.

Paula was presented with a memento of thanks from the club for all her amazing service as a NEFRA officer.

However, we have not allowed her full retirement, as due to Bob Allen stepping down from his role of President, Paula has kindly agreed to step into the role for the foreseeable future, until we decide on Bob’s Full-Time replacement.

This will also allow her to pass over all her knowledge and advice to the new Show Secretary, as we knew she would kindly do anyway.

Thank you for everything Paula Goulette.

At the recent AGM, there was a vote for committee member roles

With 7 applicants for the 6 roles available, the members and committee voted on who would fulfil these positions.

Four of the positions were three-year terms (Due to current terms expiring), and two were two-year positions, due to co option of two persons in 2025.

After a very close vote the following people were elected: –

Helen Fox and Dominic Salt-Both 3-year terms.

Harry Vasey and Anna Hazelton-Both 3-year terms (New Committee Members).

Ros Tierling and Anne Haley- Both 2-year terms.

Thank you to everybody that voted and good luck to the committee members filling these positions.

Anna Hazelton was voted in to her 3-year term on the NEFRA committee at our recent AGM.

Anna had been co opted into the committee role for the 2025 period and has started to learn various roles within the association. She has stewarded, helped with results uploading, sold raffle tickets, and worked on refreshments, along with many other jobs and roles at show and working events, and attending and helping out at other club events. Anna has learnt a lot in her time so far with NEFRA, and whilst owning, showing and working her Flatcoats has shown a big interest in the breed whilst maintaining an urge to learn more about our wonderful breed. Anna has provisionally agreed to take on the role of Wagging Tails Editor, with outgoing Wagging Tails Editor Melanie Salt and other Committee members help where necessary.

She has also agreed to continue her role uploading the Fossedata results at the shows, with the help of Chris Hewison.

Harry Vasey was voted into a 3-year term on the NEFRA committee at our recent AGM.

Harry had been co opted into a committee position for the 2025 period and learnt a lot in the process. Harry is a very experienced tech-based individual, with a wonderful knowledge of computing and photography. Many will have seen some of Harry’s photographs in the past, and he now becomes our official show photographer, aswell as agreeing to maintain and update the Facebook and Internet web pages, with the help and advice of Chris Hewison and other committee members. Aswell as show photographs, Harry has Stewarded at shows, and attended and helped at other events, taking part in working events, and has also been responsible for moving our communications forward within the committee and beyond.

We are sure that Harry will provide the club with young exciting ideas, along with his partner Anna Hazelton, and create a good base for the future of NEFRA.

We wish them both good luck and welcome them to their first 3-year term with NEFRA committee

We are pleased to be hosting a Kennel Club Good Citizen assessment day, offering all three levels, on Saturday 11th July at Park Lodge, Derbyshire.

🕙 Start time: 10:00am
🕤 Please arrive: 9:30am

Please note:

• Proof of previous awards will be required on the day
• Only one assessment per dog/handler may be undertaken

Further joining information will be sent out closer to the date.

🐾 Online entries are now open, please use the link HERE to enter.

At the AGM on Sunday 22nd March the 2025 winner of the Nellspeace Plate was deservedly presented to Mrs Rachel Pierce by Anne Haley

A wonderful tribute to the late Maggie Hammersley donated by Steve Hammersley, Jude Hammersley and family

At the AGM on Sunday 22nd March Anne Haley presented the 2025 Ceilidh Cup to Caroline Hewison for the winner

Casblaidd Island in the Sky SGWC KWGC VW

Owned by Mr Chris Hewison and Mrs Caroline Hewison

At the AGM on Sunday 22nd March the winner of the Inca Trophy for 2025, was presented by Trophy Sectetary Helen Fox to Caroline Hewison for the winner

Benvellyn Marakele into Casblaidd

Owned by Mr Chris Hewison and Mrs Caroline Hewison.