Spaniel (Clumber)
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 16th September 2024
September already - crikey it will be Christmas before we know it! The television featured ‘Last Night of the Proms’ last Saturday and this always marks end of the summer for me.
So, onto the show results.
Welsh Kennel Club saw Jenny Miller judge Clumber Spaniels and it was an all-important third CC for Paul and Sue Whitehead’s now Sh Ch Maursett Muttley at Molvonia; he has been handled to all three CCs by Lucy Wareham. His uncle, Sh Ch Maursett Malachie at Molvonia, took the Reserve DCC. In the girls, it was another CC and BOB for Sh Ch Vanitonia Secret Episode owned by Blake Crocker, Ashleigh Frost and Mr and Mrs Cahill. The Reserve BCC went to Emma Mathews and Anne Moon with Vanitonia Song and Dance, while BP was Rachel Wareham’s Suelynda Dream On.
Next up was Richmond with Frank Whyte judging the breed. DCC was Lee Cox’s Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist with the Res DCC going to Lovell’s Clumbraise This is Your Song. In the girls, it was once again CC and BOB for Sh Ch Vanitonia Secret Episode owned by Blake Crocker, Ashleigh Frost and Mr and Mrs Cahill with the Res BCC going to Sue and Lauren Wilson’s Sh Ch Anbrook Fair Maid of Kent by Winhampton who was also BV. BP was David Taylor’s Creeaark Nereus at Mollynewf.
Then onto Darlington. I was stewarding on Friday, showing on Saturday and watching the Tibetan Spaniels on the Sunday accompanied by Zaya (Parloueve My Love For Maursett) who took it all in and was not in the slightest bit fazed by anything. Rodri, Oldcharm Can you Love Me at Maursett owned by Hannah and Dave showed her how to do it by winning Junior Dog. She is at her first show next Sunday in Baby Puppy! Anyway, on to results. Graeme Underwood was the Clumbers’ judge and he found his DCC and BOB in Lee Cox’s Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist, who went on to Gundog Group 2 under Mr E Engh. His litter brother, Ir Sh Ch Vanitonia Swashbuckler of Glenariff owned by Caroline Reynolds, picked up the Res DCC. In the girls, it was Hilda and Paul Monaghan’s Sh Ch Tweedsmuir She’s so Sheek who collected the BCC, with our own Maursett Masikean being awarded the Reserve BCC. Best Puppy was Allan and Diane Barrass’s Bebecova Uniqueness. As usual, it was good to catch up with everyone and put the world to rights as well as having a good laugh. Whilst at Darlington, the Pickerings very kindly gave us an important book about Tibetan Spaniels that they had spotted in a bookshop – we are so grateful to them for this and Tony, who is a bit of a “nerd” for old pedigrees, is having a field day going through this and updating his database. This is so nice of them – thank you.
Right - time now, for a bit of a moan. I think it is about time the Clumber Club Committee picked up the gauntlet and started to challenge the Kennel Club regarding our CC allocation. We have a breed club show and 2 sets of CCs at General Championship Shows in the 6 months between now and Crufts - it is not enough. It does nothing to encourage entries at Ch Shows if there are no CCs on offer for such a long space of time, hence why people like us go for a second breed so we can still go to a Championship show all year round.
Scotland has 2 general and 1 sub-group Ch show and only 1 set of CCs – the same goes for Wales. In my view, every championship show should have CCs for all breeds. Our allocation needs to be re assessed if we are going to attract new exhibitors into the breed. Tibetan Spaniels have CCs at every championship show and BUBA plus numerous breed clubs - their entry is often only in the 50s so it seems that Clumbers are being unfairly penalised for some reason. The approach taken regarding the reallocation of CCs is, in my view, counter productive and needs to be revisited at a time when our hobby (for that is what it is for most of us) is under serious pressure.
Finally, good wishes and a speedy recovery to Susanne Whitehouse who is undergoing surgery – I am sure you will all join with me in wishing her well.
Please do remember to let me know if you have any significant wins or awards at open shows or other events as I do not, as a matter of courtesy, simply list these from social media posts.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 14th August 2024
Sorry for the lack of notes recently, but there are only so many hours in a day and I have been rushed off my feet of late.
I did manage to escape to National Gundog, courtesy of Hannah driving me, with our Clumber Club Championship Show tagged on after it. The weather was fine and a little breezy and, even with the cloud cover, a number of us ended up sunburnt. It was good to catch up with everyone and Paul Whitehouse decorated the ring, ably assisted by Lucy Wareham, with bunting, making it quite a celebration.
John Newsham had a fantastic entry and there were hardly any absentees. DCC and BOB was Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist, owned by Lee Cox and ably handled by Adam Gardner. Res DCC went to Sh Ch Maursett Malachie at Molvonia. In the girls, BCC was Sh Ch Vanitonia Secret Episode owned by Blake Crocker, Ashleigh Frost and Mr and Mrs Cahill, Reserve BCC went to the Kirkman Clan with Kirkara Minerva McGonagall. Best Puppy was Knockhalon Put A Spell on You owned and bred by Nicola Stevenson, it was nice to see a decent entry of puppies. Best Special Beginners was Suelynda Let Me Be The One owned by Mr and Mrs Blackburn.
On to the Club show and Colin Woodward had also drawn a great entry. Dog CC, Reserve Best in Show and Best Opposite Sex was Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist with the Reserve DCC going to Dave and Sue Boden’s Suelynda Boom Bang a Bang. In the girls, it was once again Sh Ch Vanitonia Secret Episode who took the CC and also Best in Show. The Reserve BCC went to our Maursett Masikean. Best Puppy in Show was Jan Shipsides’s Tweedsmuir Midsummer Dream. Best Veteran at both shows was Sh Ch Anbrook Fair Maid of Kent by Winhampton. A new addition was the Baby Puppy Classes with Rachel Wareham’s Suelynda Dream on declared Best Baby Puppy.
Ed Casey did the Special Classes and the winners are as follows. Puppy was a repeat of the Club show, Junior was Suelynda Boom Bang a Bang. Post Grad was Badgersmoon Most Wanted. Open was won by Maursett Muttley at Molvonia handled by Lucy Wareham. A slapped wrist goes to him indoors who had failed to put the entry in for the Special classes!
Our new Tibetan Spaniel - Parloueve My Love For Maursett, better known as Zaya – has arrived and you would think she had lived here all her life - talk about outgoing! She is referred to as the pocket rocket and, boy, can she move.
Please do remember to let me know if you have any significant wins or awards at open shows or other events as I do not, as a matter of courtesy, take them from social media posts.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 24th June 2024
Thought I had better get these done before turning into a zombie, yes you guessed it, the patter of tiny Clumber paws have arrived. For some reason our girls do not like to carry puppies in the normal fashion. It was a rushed visit to the vet to deliver the pups, with one horn laying on top of the other horn and squashed right up high. I can tell you our vet Emma had a right job untangling them all, but did so safely. Mum and babies are all doing fine.
Windsor saw Kieth Young judging 10 dogs and 5 females, finding his DCC and BOB in Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist who went on to go Gundog Group 2 under Richard Stafford. Many will not know but way back when, Richard had a Clumber as well as his Labradors. Res DCC went to Linda Thorogood’s Anbrook Don’t Stop Me Now at Harrifield. In the girls it was Sh Ch Tweedsmuir She’s so Sheik who was awarded the CC, owned by Paul and Hilda Monaghan, with Winhampton Pandoras Box owned by Sue and Lauren Wilson collecting the Res CC. Not to be outdone kennel mate Sh Ch Anbrook Fair Maid of Kent by Winhampton was Best Veteran. There were no puppies present as the only one entered was absent.
As well as the patter of Clumber paws the house will be ringing to the sound of puppy Tibetan Spaniel paws when Parlouve My Love to Maursett arrives shortly, to be known as Zaya. We fell in love with the breed a year ago and with Clumbers having so few Championship Shows with CCs now decided to go for a breed that we can pick and choose which shows to go to, rather than feel compelled to enter the few shows where Clumbers have CCs. Plus it means I do not have to run round the ring anymore and Tony can show again too.
Talking of shows, judges for next year are slow at being published, not many to report yet.
Please do remember to let me know if you have any significant wins or awards at open shows or other events as I do not, as a matter of courtesy, take them from social media posts.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 24th June 2024
No CCs at Three Counties where judge Mr D Telford had 7 dogs and 5 girls to go over. He found his DCC and BOB in Lee Cox’s Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist who then went on and won the Gundog Group under Pam Blay and then Reserve Best in Show under Ken Newhouse. Reserve Best Dog was Paul and Sue Whitehouse’s Sh Ch Maursett Malachie at Molvonia. BB was Vanitonia Song and Dance owned by Emma Mathews and Anne Moon, Reserve BB was the Dawson’s Beskerby Flora Finching with the Best Puppy award going to Dave Tilston’s Maursett Menelaus.
Blackpool, another show without CCs for Clumber Spaniels, saw 5 dogs and 8 girls making 6 and 10 entries for judge Mr Hans van den Berg. He found his Best Dog and Best of Breed in Clumbus Jolly Jumper of Taranstigh, owned by Jaquelyn and Stuart Nicholson and Aislyn Risk, who then went to North of England Spaniel Club and went BOB under Eddie Webster then Reserve Best in Show under Judith Carruthers. Best Female was Sh Ch Vanitonia Secret Episode owned by Blake Crocker, Ashleigh Frost and Mr and Mrs Cahill. Best Puppy once again went to Dave Tilston’s Maursett Menelaus.
Windsor has Kieth Young judging us and he has drawn an entry of 14 dogs and 8 girls making 22 and 11 entries. Clumbers are second in Ring 15 after 48 English Springers (making 70 entries); according to the judging order the judging of English Springers does not start until 10.30 which seems a little odd as this will mean a very late start for the Clumbers.
I understand that Kelly Jeffries did not handle her new puppy at Bath, but daughter Zennor showed her -another junior handler coming through the ranks?
The Breed Record Supplement shows 9 litters being registered in the first quarter totalling 38 puppies, slightly down on last year. This included one who whelped a fourth litter just before her eighth birthday. Only three of the litters in the latest BRS are from what would be considered as “show” dogs, so let us hope that the next quarter will see more from the show lines to encourage a reduction in some of the high breeding co-efficient.
No shows for our Maursett Mob of Clumbers for some time, but we are keeping a keen eye on things at Champ shows as we watch the gremlin (aka Oldcharm Can You Love Me at Maursett, the Tibetan Spaniel). Not sure if he really thinks he is a Clumber Spaniel, or an English Setter (which we also have) – when we were at Blackpool Champ Show, we bumped into some friends with their five English Setters and he was in his element!
The Clumber Spaniel Club is holding a Breed Assessment Day (BAD), Multiple Choice Examination (MCE) and Hands-on and this is scheduled for 17th November 2024. I understand from the Secretary that application forms are available on the breed club website, although I did check at the time of writing these notes (25th June 2024) and could not locate them. Keep an eye out of the CSC website for further details.
And now to the Cancer Research Race for Life. I actually quite surprised myself and got round easily, albeit not at a running pace I might add and I was accompanied by daughter Hannah and grandkids Sam and Ben. Tony, of course, got out of it through the minor irritant of ruptured knee ligaments so stayed at home on dog watch. Many thanks to those who have already donated to the cause. I am so grateful to you all, as many of you will know that I have had - and continue to have - my own personal battle with this horrible disease since 2021. If anyone still wishes to contribute I will be so grateful - just click on the link:
https://tinyurl.com/3w3wup9h
Please do remember to let me know if you have any significant wins or awards at open shows or other events as I do not, as a matter of courtesy, take them from social media posts.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 27th May 2024
Sorry for the delay in my Breed Notes, but due to technical problems beyond my control I have been unable to publish them. Hopefully, everything is now all fixed.
Unfortunately, I did not make it to WELKS for gundog day as my travel partner was busy with a girl due to whelp. I did however make it on the Sunday to watch Hannah show the Tibbie. I understand the weather was not kind and it was very cold on gundog day; luckily it had warmed up a little by Sunday. Hilary Male was awarding CCs in Clumbers for the first time and found her DCC, his 10th, in Sh Ch Maursett Mallachie at Molvonia owned by Paul and Sue Whitehouse. The Reserve DCC went to Vanitonia Something Extra owned by Dee Carter Hunt and Adam Gardner. BCC, BOB and Gundog Group 4 was Sh Ch Vanitonia Secret Episode owned by Blake Crocker, Ashleigh Frost and Mr and Mrs Cahill. Res BCC was Paul and Hilda Monaghan’s Sh Ch Tweedsmuir She’s So Sheek. Best Puppy went to Suelynda Let Me Be The One owned by Mrs C and Mr J Blackburn.
The National was judged by Eunice King who found her DCC and BOB in Lee Cox’s Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist who then went on and won the Gundog Group under Patsy Hollings. Reserve DCC went to Dave and Sue Boden’s Puppy Suelynda Boom Bang a Bang who was also Best Puppy. In the bitch classes, it was a first CC for the Kirkman Clans puppy, Kirkara Minerva McGonagall, with our Maursett Masikean picking up yet another Res CC. Rachel Wareham had a good day getting third in the Special Beginners with Prestij Nachii Mandarin Shik under Robin Newhouse. We had a get together after judging with plenty of food and drinks.
At SKC, Jane Howarth was our Judge and found her DCC and BOB in Caroline Reynolds’ Vanitonia Swashbuckler of Glenariff, his first, with the Res CC going to Ricky Furnell’s Sh Ch Vanitonia Rio Sonora to Bebacova. BCC her first, after many Reserves, was our Maursett Masikean and Res BCC was Ricky’s Bebacova Scarlet Witch with Best Puppy going to Natalie Stevenson’s Knockhalon Put a Spell on You. We were unable to stay for the October Show judged by Irene Glenn - her Best Dog and Best of Breed was a repeat of the May Ch show result as was Best Puppy.
At a slightly muddy Bath, DCC was Paul and Sue Whitehouse’s Maursett Muttley at Malvonia, his second and I am told expertly handled in the challenge by Lucy Wareham. The Res CC going to Badgersmoon The Most Wanted owned by Thompson, Fenwick Langridge consortium. BCC and BOB was Sh Ch Vanitonia Secret Episode owned by Blake Crocker, Ashleigh Frost and Mr and Mrs Cahill. I understand congratulation are in order to Blake and Ashleigh as the patter of two feet are expected. Res BCC was Vanitonia Song and Dance owned by Emma Mathews and Anne Moon with Best Puppy going to Kelly and James Jefferies with Abbyford One Seren Ashe of Jubilwell. Nice to see Kelly back in the ring after a long absence. We were absent due to Gertie being in season.
Please do not forget to let me know if you do have any significant wins or awards at Open Shows as I do not, as a matter of policy and courtesy, take them from social media.
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 14th April 2024
Unfortunately, I did not make it to the Clumber Club Open Show due to my dear husband sharing his germs with me. I understand the weather was not kind and therefore the judging was done indoors. There were eight absentees leaving Alastair Moss thirteen dogs and ten bitches to go over. BB and Best in Show was Paul and Hilda Monaghan’s Sh Ch Tweedsmuir She’s So Sheek, Reserve BB and Reserve Best in Show was Anne Moon’s and Emma Mathews Vanitonia Song and Dance. Best Opposite Sex was Paul and Hilda’s Kensequi Nice at Tweedsmuir JW and Best Puppy in Show was the Kirkman’s Clan’s Kirkara Minerva Mcgonagall which Sara shows. Best Veteran was Marjorie Charlesworth Ironside’s Tavirosh Stonewall.
I have heard little about the AGM, but do know that the proposition to lower the weight in our standard was, thank heavens, defeated. I also understand that there seems to be a problem with the Clumber Spaniel Club’s website at the moment which no doubt will be resolved soon.
The Clumber Spaniel lunch at the Kennel Club was a great success and I hope this could become a yearly event. Sara Kirkman organised our break in London, finding us a good Airbnb. She drove Kath, myself and Hannah down to London where we met up with Lyndsey Steele who had flown down from Aberdeen. The lunch was very tasty, as was the wine, and the tour to see the Library, the art and photography collections was amazing. Gina Bowers even found a photo of a very, very young Lee Cox showing a Clumber. The chairman of the Kennel Club, Tony Allcock, popped in to see us and commented how good it was to see and hear people enjoying themselves, which we certainly were. I hope Lyndsey has recovered from paying a small fortune for a sandwich and coffee in Harrods.
I understand the Scottish Clumberites got together this weekend for a Chinese meal. It would be good for the Club to organise an event/show in Scotland bearing in mind that it is the Clumber Spaniel Club of Great Britain and the number of exhibitors in Scotland is growing year by year.
Talking of those north of the border, I must apologise to Jacquelyn Nicolson for omitting her Best of Breed and Group 1 at Lanarkshire Canine Society under Mrs Alexandra Hill with Clumbus Jolly Jumper of Taranstigh (Ruben to his friends). Meanwhile, I see in a separate critique that we again apparently have a breed specific roll! I do wish judges would make themselves aware of the Kennel Club standard when they judge and do their write-ups, as it is disrespectful to refer to a feature that was removed from the breed standard nearly twenty years ago. Clumber spaniels to not have a characteristic rolling gait.
The show season kicks off with WELKS this month, with Hilary Male awarding CCs in our breed for the first time. She has drawn an entry of sixteen dogs and nine bitches, which is not too bad considering it is on a Thursday. Next will be the National, again on a Thursday, judged by Eunice King, followed by SKC which is holding both shows together. At SKC, we are on a Sunday with CCs at the first show (Jane Howarth) and an open show at the second (Irene Glen). Reduced rates were offered if you entered both shows; it will be interesting to see how this pans out. Bath finishes off the month with Jeff Horsfield, another weekday show with the added dynamic of it being a Bank Holiday Monday. We then have a big gap until Windsor and another before Leeds at the end of July.
Please do not forget to let me know if you do have any significant wins or awards at Open Shows as I do not, as a matter of policy and courtesy, take them from social media.
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 14th March 2024
Well, that’s it over with for yet another year. It is frightening that it is 40 years since we first attended Crufts. Back then, the show was held at Earls Court in London and I recovered a lot quicker in those days. Am I the only one to feel like I have been hit by a bus for days afterwards.
Our judge, Ian Layfield, looked exceedingly smart, being suited and booted complete with bow tie. Ian always wears a bow tie when judging to avoid a tie flapping about and possibly frightening the dogs. He found his DCC and BOB in Lee Cox’s Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist with his younger brother Vanitonia Something Extra (owned by Dee Carter Hunt and Adam Gardner) picking up the Reserve DCC. BCC was Sh Ch Vanitonia Secret Episode owned by the Crocker, Frost, Cahill partnership, with the Res BCC going to our Maursett Masikean and BP Beskerby Flora Finching owned by Ian, Pam and Michelle Dawson. Best Veteran was Multi Ch Big Booms Joker Donkey owned by Lana Levai.
There were very few absentees and it was nice to catch up with friends from Europe. In the Open Dog and Open Bitch classes, there were only two exhibits from the UK - the rest being from Europe. It must be the first time for a number of years that UK dogs have done so well at Crufts.
It was sad to hear that the keyboard warriors were straight on to social media spouting the usual rubbish about the dogs exhibited at Crufts. Did you know that today’s Clumbers are nothing like those in Victorian times? Thank heavens they are not, having read critiques from Crufts way back when and seen photos of them we have moved on with better and healthier Clumbers now being shown.
Just before Crufts, I had some news from the Brown family in Scotland. They have Maursett Meadie (aka Barney) and he won AVNSC and Group 2 at Tayside and Lochee under judge Frances Carlton.
Entries are closing thick and fast, with both Edwinstowe and the Clumber Club Open Show closing soon, and then WELKS followed by SKC.
Please do not forget to let me know if you do have any significant winning at Open Shows as I do not take them from social media.
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 28th January 2024
Well, that’s the first Championship show of the year done and dusted.
It was a long wait to get in the ring and a tad chilly, but it was also a good opportunity to catch up with folks. Gordon Haran found his DCC in Maja Bubalo’s Int Ch Hrothgar’s Hop Skip N Jump giving him his UK title, with Vanitonia Something Extra (owned by Dee Carter Hunt and Adam Gardner) having a fabulous day picking up the Reserve DCC, Best Puppy in Breed, Gundog Puppy Group 1 then Reserve Best Puppy in Show under Tom Mather. BCC and BOB was Sh Ch Vanitonia Secret Episode owned by the Crocker, Frost, Cahill partnership, with the Res BCC going to Paul and Hilda Monaghan’s Sh Ch Tweedsmuir Just a Dream. There were quite a few baby puppies taking advantage of the £5 spectator dog offer and all seemed to be quite chilled.
Eunice King has asked me to remind all members that their subscriptions are due by the end of the month – full details on the Clumber Spaniel Club’s website. Anyone who fancies going to the Clumber lunch at the Kennel Club on 3rd April 2024 also needs to cough up their monies to the Club via Paypal or direct debit (remember to reference your names) or, alternatively, a cheque to the Club’s Treasurer John Newsham. Also, a brief reminder about the AGM where nominations for Officers, Committee, Judges and Agenda Items are also due in shortly.
Meanwhile, I see that Crufts entries have been extended, so if you have not got round to entering I suggest you get a move on.
Please do not forget to let me know if you do any significant winning at Open Shows as I do not take them from social media.
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 12th December 2023
The last championship show of the season saw LKA at it’s new venue. I thought it went down well - great car parking staff and a far shorter walk in to the venue, plus of course docked breeds could enter. The only draw back for us was being so late in the ring. An empty ring was eventually found for us, but that was at about 3pm. Still it gave us all time to shop, eat and catch up with everyone.
Richard Bott was awarding CCs in our breed for the first time and had a great entry which was unfortunately decimated due to people being ill (more about that later) and kennel cough. It was a bit of a family affair, with Dee Carter Hunt and Adam Gardner’s Vanitonia Something Extra gaining his first CC and Best Puppy and subsequently Puppy Group 3 under Keith Young, with litter brother Vanitonia Swashbuckler of Glenariff owned by Caroline Reynolds, picking up the Reserve Dog CC. These two boys are by Sh Ch Vanitonia The Force Awakens out of Maursett Morveen of Vanitonia.
BCC (social media prevents me from using the proper word!) was Sh Ch Vanitonia Secret Episode owned by Blake Crocker, Ashleigh Frost and Mr and Mrs Cahill; she is by Sh Ch Anbrook Burma Star at Brazenhill out of Vanitonia Ginny for Short. Bringing up the rear was our own Maursett Masikean, gaining her third Reserve CC . She is by our Sh Ch Maursett Mathos JW and out of Sh Ch Maursett Mercy (who happens to be litter sister to Maursett Morveen of Vanitonia).
The atmosphere round the benches and ring was jovial. This was in no small part due to the cheeky comments made about me by my darling daughter along with her partner in crime Lauren Wilson; there was even the odd comment from Alistair Kirkman thrown in for good measure, lol!
Talking about Lauren, she and mum Sue had a good day out at Crystal Palace Canine Association under judge Blake Crocker, where they went Best AVNSC Puppy then won the Puppy Group.
Now, I am afraid, onto the sick list. First off, Clumber Spaniel Club President Ian Layfield has been laid low after having a heart attack. All being well, he has been sorted out and should be back fighting fit very quickly. Jonathan Thompson has also been poorly I understand so was missing from the show. Joining this unfortunate list is Rachel Wareham who has been in hospital for over a week and therefore missing too from the show. Get well soon to all three and I am sure they would welcome a card.
The Clumber Club are holding a Breed Assessment Day on Sunday 25th February at Shirland Village Hall. Full details are available from the Clumber Spaniel Club’s Hon Secretary, Secretary Eunice King, by telephone on 01246 476059 or by email at the following:
secretary@clumberspanielclub.org.uk
The Club are also wanting dogs on the day to take part in the hands-on section of the day, so do please contact Eunice if you can help.
We have a change of judge for Birmingham National - Eunice King is now our judge instead of Mick Howes.
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 13th November 2023
Gundog Breeds of Scotland no longer has CCs for us – I was the last one to judge them with CCs there many years ago. Once again, Lee Cox came raiding over border going Best of Breed under judge Alessandro Zeppi and then Best in Show under Hilary Male. That is two Best in Shows in Scotland this year for Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist - they will be taking his passport off him. BB and also Best Puppy was the Dawson’s Beskerby Flora Finching.
The Clumber Spaniel breed lunch at the Kennel Club is going to be on Wednesday 3rd April cost £48.50. Full details are available from the Clumber Spaniel Club’s Secretary, Eunice King, via email at the following address:
secretary@clumberspanielclub.org.uk
Now, on to judges for next year, (with the year and where they last judged showing). There are still a couple missing, but here are the ones I have right now:
• Manchester - Gordon Harran (SWKA 2019)
• Crufts – Ian Layfield (SWKA 2018)
• Clumber Club Open Show – Alistair Moss
• WELKS – Hilary Male (1st time)
• Birmingham National – Mick Howes (Bath 2022)
• SKC – Jane Howarth (GSOW 2022)
• Bath – Jeff Horswell (SKC 2017)
• Windsor – Keith Young (Manchester 2016)
• Leeds – Moray Armstrong (GSOW 2016)
• National Gundog – John Newsham (Manchester 2020)
• WKC – Jenny Miller (Bournemouth 2015)
• Darlington – Graham Underwood (National Gundog 2019)
• Clumber Club show 1 - Lee Cox (3 Counties 2022)
• Show 2 - Colin Woodward (East of England 2018)
• LKA - Richard Morris (1st time)
That makes just five breed specialists, with nine all-rounders in total for next year with just City of Birmingham, Richmond and South Wales Kennel yet to be announced.
Apologies for getting a name wrong in my critique for the Clumber Spaniel Club Ch Show. Third in Limit Bitch should read Gracedieu Stars and Stripes, not Gracedieu Brooklyn Bridge, This has been amended, but of course the critiques remain correct.
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 7th November 2023
No classes for us at Midland Counties, but three Clumbers were entered in the AVNSC classes under Richard Bott. It was another great day for Vanitonia, with Lee Cox’s Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist gaining the Best Dog Award, Best AVNSC before winning the Gundog Group under Chris Bexon. Reserve Best Dog was Dave Tilston’s Stonielea Toast. In the girls, BB (and Best Puppy) was Ricky Furnell’s Bebecova Scarlet Witch.
The Club is thinking of organising a lunch at the Kennel Club if there is sufficient interest. This is in the format that the Kennel Club have introduced in recent years for other breeds and would include being able to visit the KC’s extensive library and a viewing of some of the amazing works of art on display in Clarges Street (a painting of Clumber Spaniels is being exhibited at present). Anyone who is interesting in attending should contact the Clumber Spaniel Club’s Secretary, Eunice King, at the following address: secretary@clumberspanielclub.org.uk
Entries for the last Championship show of the year LKA are closing soon (indeed, as I write these notes, I see the closing date has been extended until noon on the 14th November 2023 for online entries). This year, LKA is being held at Stafford with Richard Bott awarding CCs in Clumbers for the first time. Where has this year gone? It seems that the older I get, the faster they fly by – as if to verify that point, I see entries for the National are now online to enter for the May 2024 show!
I hope you all weathered the storm Ciarán. I checked in with Ginny Heaume who lives in Gurnsey, as the Channel Islands were badly hit. She said the winds were scary, but that they were all okay.
Linda Thorogood took Stoker, Anbrook Don’t Stop Me Now at Harrifield, to East Kent Canine Society and he was Best AVNSC and Gundog Group 3 under judge Megan Dodd.
Hannah and I were at the North of England Tibetan Spaniel Club’s Championship Show on Saturday, and it was really well run and friendly. Prize money, as well as goodie bags for all winners, fabulous rosettes, a huge raffle and guess the weight of the Christmas cake plus a Breed shop that was packed with goodies. At the end of the show, beautiful certificates were given to all the dogs that had gained their title the previous year.
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 23rd October 2023
At South Wales Kennel Association, Michelle Meredith (Andchelle) was our judge; though no longer in the breed, Michelle bred and made up numerous show champions, including our first Sh Ch Andchelle My Fair Lady from Maursett.
It was a great day for Vanitonia, with Lee Cox’s Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist gaining the Dog CC and going Best of Breed then taking Group 2 under Doreen Smille Gray. Bitch CC was Sh Ch Vanitonia Secret Episode owned by Blake Crocker, Ashleigh Frost and Mr and Mrs Cahill. The Reserve BCC was our own Sh Ch Maursett Marnie. Best Puppy was Vanitonia Something Extra owned by Dee Carter Hunt and Adan Gardner, who also was awarded the Res Dog CC and, under Nick Gourley, won the Puppy Group. Well done to all the winners.
Well, it has arrived! Hannah and Dave are now proud owners of a bundle of fur known as Rodri the Tibetan Spaniel (posh name Oldcharm Can you Love Me at Maursett TAF). Although two weeks younger than our two, soon to be one, Clumber girls he has, shall we say, attitude! He has been here five minutes and now rules the roost.
The Clumber Spaniel Club is running a Breed Assessment Day (Hands on) at Shirland Village Hall on Saturday 4th November 2023. You must have passed the BAD and MCE to be able to attend. Full details from:
Mrs Eunice King
Hon Secretary – The Clumber Spaniel Club
57 Elliott Drive
Inkersall
Chesterfield
Derbyshire S43 3DZ
Telephone: 01246 476059
E-mail - secretary@clumberspanielclub.org.uk
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 12th October 2023
While were all at the Clumber Club Show last weekend, a little Mob of Maursetts went off to Mid Western Gundog and Paul and Sue Whitehouse’s Sh Ch Maursett Malachie at Malvonia (Garfield) was Best of Breed under Howard Ogden before going on to take 3rd Best in Show. Fast forward to following weekend and Garfield, having gone Best of Breed under Sharon Rossiter, then won the Gundog Group under Russell Mosedale, at Birmingham Gundog and Terrier. He was then up for Best in Show which was being judged jointly by Russell Mosedale and Joe Ashe, with Jenny Miller as referee, and Garfield was then declared Best in Show.
North of the border, it was Jacquelyn and Stuart Nicholson’s Danish import Clumbus Jolly Jumper of Taranstigh taking high honours going Best AVNSC then Group 4 under Bill Molton at Paisley and District.
Heading back south and Linda Thorogood went to Guildford and District with Anbrook Don’t Stop Me at Harrifield and was Best AVNSC the Group 3 under Ray Strudwick.
Paul and Hilda Monaghan’s Kenesqui Nice at Tweedsmuir had a good day out at East Anglian Gundog going Best Puppy, Best of Breed judged by Daisy Toublic (Cobhay) and then Best Puppy in Show 4.
Well done folks a great weekend for the breed.
It was our last set of CCs at Gundog Society of Wales and Carol Coode was judging. Dog CC was Lee Cox’s Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist, with Lynda Thorogood gaining the Res CC with Anbrook Don’t Stop Me Now at Harrifield. In bitches, it was another CC with Best of Breed for Sh Ch Vanitonia Secret Episode owned by Blake Crocker, Ashleigh Frost and Mr and Mrs Cahill. Res Bitch CC, a first, for Abbyford Lady Merry of Ivale owned by Martyn and Jo Lovell. Best Puppy was Vanitonia Something Extra owned by Dee Carter Hunt and Adan Gardner. Well done to all the winners.
Tony, Hannah and I went off to attend the Breed Assessment Day run by the North of England Tibetan Spaniel Club, just to learn a little about the breed. After an extremely informative morning session and being able to go over some of the breed we were talked into doing the MCE which we passed. We had an excellent lunch and then once again got talked into doing the hands-on assessment, which once again we all passed. I must say the quality of the information and the beautiful presentation pack plus a bag of goodies was excellent. The extended standard was given with clarity and explained so much about why the breed is as it is - quality information relayed succinctly and a great, friendly bunch of officers and committee. We thoroughly enjoyed our day.
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 4th October 2023
The weather held fine for the Clumber Spaniel Club Championship Show last Sunday, albeit somewhat o. That meant we were able to have the judging outside, which is always a plus. It was your truly judging the breed, and Michelle Dawson judged the Special Classes.
As usual, there was a good atmosphere ringside with plenty of laughter and the committee doing a sterling job. Dog CC and Best in Show was Lee Cox’s Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist, Res Dog CC (a second in quick succession) was Jacquelyn and Stuart Nicholson’s Danish import Clumbus Jolly Jumper of Taranstigh. In the bitches, it was another CC, Reserve Best in Show and Best Opposite Sex for Dave and Sue Boden’s Sh Ch Suelynda Kreme Della Kreme, with Gerry and Lyndsey Steele’s Stonilea Williams Legacy collecting her first Reserve CC. I awarded Best Puppy in Show to Paul and Hilda Monaghan’s Kenesqui Nice at Tweedsmuir.
The committee in the kitchen were ably assisted by Kath Kirkman and it was good to catch up with her for a chat and some good banter.
I was sorry to hear that Blake Crocker, Ashleigh and their baby son had been unwell and therefore unable to attend the show. I do hope they have all recovered. It is bad enough when adults are ill, but when it is babies and children it is so very hard.
Talking of poorly people, him indoors is now onto his second lot of antibiotics and steroids to try and shift the nasty chest infection that he has; don’t worry it’s not the dreaded Covid, he has been testing regularly and is clear of that particular nasty.
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 15th September 2023
Last Friday saw Christine Morgan awarding CCs in Clumbers for the first time. Once again there were a number of absentees, with only 9 dogs and 6 bitches present. Dog CC and yet again a new show Champion was Ricky Furnell’s Vanitonia Rio Sonora to Bebecova, whilst his litter sister the newly crowned Vanitonia Secret Episode owned by Blake Crocker, Ashleigh Frost and Shaun and Stephanie Cahill collected her fourth CC and Best of Breed. Ashleigh handled her in the group and a great job she made of it too, you may have lost a job Blake! The Reserve Dog CC and Best Puppy was awarded to Clumbraise Your Song imported from Norway by Jo and Martyn Lovell. The Reserve Bitch CC once again went to Sue and Lauren Wilson’s Winhampton Pandoras Box.
We move on to this Friday (15th September) where Sarah Sevastopulo was our judge at Darlington and had 16 dogs and 6 bitches present. A first CC and Best of Breed for Jacquelyn and Stuart Nicholson’s Danish import Clumbus Jolly Jumper of Taranstigh, with Linda Thorogood collecting another Reserve CC with Anbrook Don’t Stop Me Now at Harrifield. In bitches, it was a fourth CC foe Dave and Sue Boden’s Sh Ch Suelynda Kreme Della Kreme with Jacqeline Pickering’s Dutch import Wymeswold Verdejo at Greencourt collecting the Reserve CC. Paul and Hilda Monaghan won another Best Puppy in Breed with Kenesqui Nice at Tweedsmuir, out of a whopping 10 puppies present.
Our seven little darlings are now five weeks old and have been evicted to the puppy kennel. They already have developed their own personalities and really are time wasters at this age.
We only have 4 sets of CCs left for this year, the Clumber Spaniel Club Show, South Wales Kennel, Gundog Society of Wales and then the nearly two months gap until LKA which has of course moved to Stafford from this year. Next year we lose three sets of CCs, but do gain an extra Breed Club Championship Show held in conjunction with a Championship show. Once again, we have a big gap, Bath at the end of May then two months until Leeds at the end of July, as we have lost Three Counties and East of England. The other loss is Gundog Society of Wales. I think this strategy by the Kennel Club should perhaps be revisited, as reducing the number of shows with big gaps does not encourage new exhibitors into the breed in my opinion.
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 4th September 2023
Well, here we are yet another month has gone and we heading into autumn.
Birmingham saw Pam Blay award CCs in our breed for the first time and she had a cracking entry, but unfortunately a high absentee rate - we were guilty, I am afraid, as all our girls decided to come into season with only Hannah and Dave’s Pearl not yet in. There was still a quality entry and it was another CC and BOB for Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist owned by Lee Cox, with his younger brother Vanitonia Something Extra going Best Puppy and Gundog Puppy Group 2 at just 6 months old (he is owned by Lee’s mum Dee Carter Hunt and Adam Gardener). The bitch CC, the all important third, was awarded to Vanitonia Secret Episode owned by Blake Crocker, Ashleigh Frost and Shaun and Stephanie Cahill. The Reserve CCs went to Maursett Muttley at Molvonia owned by Paul and Sue Whitehouse and Big Boom’s Viking Liv Beskerby owned by Ian, Pam and Michelle Dawson. Best Junior was Stonielea Toast owned by David Tilston and Best Special Beginners was Rachel Wareham’s Prestij Nachii Mandarin Shik.
Darlington has drawn an entry of 24 for Sarah Sevastapulo. Clumbers are in Ring 12 at 9am; unfortunately, we are looking after our grandsons and have to get them to school and college, so have had to give a miss to what is our local show.
Linda Thorogood tells me that she had a good day at Hampshire Gundog with Anbrook Don’t Stop Me Now At Harrifield, (Stoker) going Best of Breed under Jackie Crawford and then BIS 4 under Carol Coode.
We seem to be enjoying a brief Indian summer right now. Unfortunately, due to health issues, I cannot sit out and enjoy the glorious weather, not that I have a great deal of spare time at the moment. The seven little darlings are now on solid food and I seem to spend all my time putting it in one end and clearing it up from the other! The pups are also at the “we can help you stage”. It is a wonder I have not stood one and I do end up exhausted by the time fresh bedding and puppy pads are in place!
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 23rd August 2023
Welsh Kennel Club saw Jacqui Ward awarding CCs in the breed. It was a bit of a disappointing entry - presumably the distance will have put a number of people off, we have puppies so are not at any shows this month.
Anyway, as long as there is quality there then all is well and Jacqui withheld last time she judged us so her top winners will certainly have been of the quality required. She found her Dog CC and Best of Breed in Ricky Furnell’s Vanitonia Rio Sonaro to Bebecova, his second, with Paul and Sue Whitehouse’s Sh Ch Maursett Mallachie at Molvonia picking up the Reserve Dog CC. In the bitches – and not to be outdone by her kennel mate - Bebecova Scarlet Witch collected her first CC and Best Puppy. The Reserve bitch CC was another Puppy - James Taylor and Mike Hilton’s Delsaux Fly me to the Moon. A little mention for new Clumber exhibitors David and Kim Tilson with their first Clumber dog Stonielea Toast (aka Quinn) who as well as winning his class went to win the Junior Vulnerable Breed class. Well done – just a shame David did not get round to collecting his £25 winnings for the Vulnerable breed class.
Driffield without CCs has 12 dogs making 12 entries we are second in Ring 20 after 15 Sussex Spaniels making 17 entries, judging starts at 9am.
The City of Birmingham championship show sees Pam Blay awarding CCs in Clumbers and she has drawn a good entry of 39 making 41 entries. Clumbers are first in Ring 3, Hall 2 at 9am. Another early start for many of us.
Meanwhile, it is always good to receive news of successes at Open Shows. I had a note from Karen Cornwall who had a good day at Scunthorpe Canine Association’s open show with her puppy, Creeaark Jensen, who went Gundog Puppy Group 2 from the AVNSC classes under judge Roger Perkins.
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 14th August 2023
Sorry for the delay in in these notes but the patter of tiny paws has arrived rendering me resembling a zombie. Normal service will resume in a few weeks.
National Gundog last Sunday saw Gina Bowers stand in for Linda McGillivary (more from Linda later).
Gina found her Dog CC and Best of Breed in Lee Cox’s Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist, with Paul and Sue Whitehouse’s Maursett Muttley picking up the Reserve Dog CC. In bitches it was that all important third CC for Dave and Sue Boden’s Suelynda Kreme Della Kreme with Winhampton Pandoras Box belonging to Sue and Laren Wilson, getting the Reserve Bitch CC. Best puppy was Kensesqui Nice at Tweedsmuir owned by Paul and Hilda Monaghan, with Best Special Beginners going to Burge’s Gracedieu Brooklyn Bridge.
I was judging Bracco Italiano and was over the moon that my Best of Breed Sh Ch Braccorions Never Say Never JW went on to become Best in Show. As I was second in the ring, we managed to catch both of the horrific downpours and must have resembled drowned rats by the end of judging.
Meanwhile, as mentioned earlier, I have received a note from Linda McGillivary asking me to put an apology in these notes for exhibitors who had entered under her at National Gundog.
Linda writes: “My recovery after a total knee replacement on 22nd May was going well, I didn’t foresee any problem about judging today. On my follow up appointment, the surgeon although pleased with my recovery, suggested a MUA (manipulation under anaesthetic) - this breaks up any scar tissue around the knee helping it bend fully. An overnight stay in hospital & no driving for 48 hours I thought ok, unfortunately I ended up with swelling, pain & back using crutches.
Regrettably I then had to inform the secretary I wasn’t fit enough to judge. I was gutted as I was so looking forward to judging the Clumbers especially with such a lovely entry. I was pleased it was a breed judge who took over my appointment.
Thank you, Gina Bowers, for stepping in to take over my appointment.”
The entry for Welsh Kennel Club is 18 dogs making 22 entries. Clumbers are in Ring 1 after 11 American Cocker Spaniels making 12 entries.
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 3rd August 2023
Friday saw us going to one of our local shows at Leeds, where Anthony Allen was awarding CCs in the breed for the first time.
It was a new layout and one or two were pointing out that we could have done with two entrances, rather than just the one, and that the BIS ring would have been better in the centre. Another gripe (sorry) was that Best Special Beginners Group was done before breed judging was finished so many did not get to compete.
Anyway, we had no problems and on to judging. Dog CC went to Dave and Sue Boden’s Sh Ch Tweedsmuir Just Cruzin Among Suelynda with Linda Thorogood picking up the Reserve with Anbrook Don’t Stop me Now at Harrifeld. The bitch CC, her second, went to Vanitonia Secret Episode owned by the Crocker, Frost Cayhill partnership and handled by Blake and Tony and I collected a second Reserve CC with young Maursett Masikean. Best Puppy was Ricky Furnell’s Bebecova Scarlet Witch who went on to get Puppy Group 3 from judge Lee Cox - a nice birthday present for Ricky.
National Gundog sees Clumbers with a change of judge as Linda Magillivary has withdrawn. Gina Bowers will now be judging in her place. Gina last judged Clumbers at Richmond in 2019. There is a good entry of 19 dogs making 22 entries and 19 bitches making 24 entries. We are second in Ring 17 after 49 American Cockers making 54 entries (judging for them starts at 9am). The show is unbenched, so do remember to take chairs and crates. We are not entered as I am judging Bracco Italiano. As I am second in the ring after 72 Gordon Setters making 107 entries, I hope to be able to watch most, if not all of the Clumber judging.
Meanwhile, I had a message from Eunice King to say that there will be eye testing available at the Club Championship show on 1st October - full details and application form to book your place are available from Eunice.
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 12th July 2023
Friday saw us heading down to Rutland for the very last East of England Championship show. Next year the date and CCs will be taken over by Boston, but not for Clumbers unfortunately as this year was to be our last set of CCs at East of England. A shame, really, as the new venue was very good.
We also lose Gundog Society of Wales and Three Counties next year. With quite a lot of new puppies either out - or due out - this summer, hopefully entries will increase. If they are sustained at 30 or over we may get some sets of CCs back.
Meanwhile, on to results. Bill Orzell was awarding CCs in Clumbers for the first time and it was a repeat of the 2022 results for the top honours, with the litter brother and sister duo doing the double again. DCC and BOB Sh Ch Maursett Malachie of Molvonia, with kennel mate Maursett Muttley picking up the Reserve DCC for a seriously well-chuffed Paul and Sue Whitehouse. In bitches, it was once again our Sh Ch Maursett Marnie collecting another bitch CC, with Dave and Sue Boden’s Suelynda Kreme Della Kreme collecting the Res BCC.
I did hear some disturbing rumours at East of England that a few championship shows are teetering on the edge of having to close. Let’s hope that this is just unwarranted gossip, but entries have really dropped across all breeds this year and I can understand that some shows may be struggling. Fingers crossed that entries pick up.
Now for some sad news that Sue and Lauren Wilson’s Margot (Winhampton Oops a Daisy) has died suddenly and at quite a young age - it never gets any easier losing our dogs.
Entries for Leeds will be closing shortly, so details of the entry etc at a later date. Just a warning that there are road works on the A1, with both north and south carriageways going down to one lane at Darrington and the hold ups are significant, even very early in the morning, but especially on week days as we know from personal experience. As we are on a Friday at Leeds this year, do take this into account and check to see if the roadworks are still in place for the weekend of the show.
We took an alternative route last week to avoid this, hopping across the M18 and onto the M1and our plan had worked well. All was going fine till we were nearly home when a nasty accident closed the A1 at Boroughbridge. We were sat for over three hours before the road was cleared. I do hope that there were no serious injuries. Do men have weak bladders? So many of them found it necessary to relieve themselves at the roadside!
After a very long journey home, we eventually got back in time to celebrate grandson Sam’s 16th birthday.
We have a couple of local shows coming up so we are definitely looking forward to not having to get up at some ridiculous hour in the morning.
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 4th July 2023
Well instead of being at Windsor I was sitting at home. Many will know that over the last three plus years my family have all gone down with Covid, but it has never touched me - yes you are right it has got me in the end. I must say it is the most unpredictable virus, here is why. On Saturday evening, I was told that someone I had been in contact with had tested positive. Next morning, I did a test that came out negative, so Hannah and I went off to trim a Clumber we had bred. On Monday, I did a second test and this was also negative. By Monday evening, I had started with a headache and runny nose. When I took the test on Tuesday, it showed up as positive. Now Hannah who had been cooped up in a car with me for three hours and him in doors have not got it, yet the owner of the dog we trimmed on the Sunday when I was negative went down with it on Wednesday. It appears that even though the test says negative you are actually infectious.
Just glad I was not at a show on that Sunday or I could have caused havoc! I am now testing negative so all being well will be at East of England on Friday. Talking of which, I did mention to Tony this morning that “we must get the dogs bathed for Friday” – he did reply that he assumed that this translates as “you must get the dogs bathed for Friday”, which is of course correct.
On to Windsor, where due to a number of absentees, Janet Richards had 18 Clumbers to go over. DCC and BOB was Lee Cox’s Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist who then went Gundog Group 3 under Gill Simpson, with Linda Thorogood’s Anbrook Don’t Stop Me Now at Harrifeld getting the Reserve DCC. In bitches it was Dave and Sue Boden’s Suelynda Kreme Della Kreme picking up the BCC with Lauren and Sue Wilson’s Winhampton Pandoras Box collecting another Reserve CC. Best Puppy was Paul and Hilda Monaghan’s new puppy Kensesqui Nice at Tweedsmuir.
No CCs at Blackpool where Richard Morris had 5 Clumbers present. Best dog was Clumbus Jolly Jumper of Taransgith, owned by Ja and Stuart Nicolson, with Maursett Mareth owned by Scott Lemon Reserve Best Dog. Best Bitch was Nicola Stevenson’s Banshee White Roll with Reserve Best Bitch Claire Nixon’s Stonielea Williams Charm. Best Puppy was Maursett Meadie owned by George, Lorna and Lucy Brown.
A reminder from Peter Sheppard that Clumber Fest is fast approaching and camping is allowed from 13th July. The real fun starts on 15th and 16th July with a Clumber Rumble, a Mantrailing Demo and Peter’s famous Quiz amongst other things. All details are on the website www.clumberfest.org. All are welcome, you can just turn up for the day and honorary Clumbers are always welcome. If you have any queries you can contact Peter at peter@clumberfest.org
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes –12th June 2023
Tony was allowed out (yes, he is definitely not under the patio) for the day to accompany me to Three Counties with just the two hooligans, as we left Marnie at home for a rest. Hannah was not with us as she, along with grandsons Sam and Ben, was competing in the Cancer Research Race for Life. May I firstly say a huge thanks to all who have made donations and there is still time if you wish to contribute using the following link:
https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/team/stephenswarriors
We were not too late into the ring as there were quite a few absentees in GSPs (as indeed there were across the board), no doubt due to the oppressive heat. Chris Page found his Dog CC and BOB in Lee Cox’s Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist, with the Reserve Dog CC going to Ricky Furnell’s Vanitonia Rio Sonara at Bebecova. In the bitches, it was Paul and Hilda Monaghan’s Sh Ch Tweedsmuir Just a Dream collecting the Bitch CC with Dave and Sue Boden’s Suelynda Kreme Della Kreme picking up the Res Bitch CC. Best Puppy was Hannah and David Taylor’s Maursett Madrigal.
It was a bit of a shock to find from the results that Southern Counties had, after many, many years reinstated Clumber classes. I suspect that most of us were totally unaware of this as after this length of time we just skip past Southern Counties. Consequently, it was a numerically small entry. A line dropped to the breed note writers to say that classes were now back on may have encouraged a better entry. Daniela Pinto Tranquada found her Best Dog and BOB in Linda Thorogood’s Anbrook Don’t Stop Me Now at Harrifield. Reserve Best Dog and Best Puppy was Martyn and Jo Lovell’s Clumbraise Your Song with his kennel mate Abbyford Lady Merry of Ivale, Best Bitch.
We now have a bit of a break until Windsor, quickly followed by our last set of CCs at East of England.
I hope all goes well for the new Vulnerable breeds show next weekend, where Ian Dawson is judging the Clumber Spaniels..
Meanwhile, I had an email from Barbara Weston about Clumber Spaniel Exhibition which takes place over the 17th to 25th June in the Discovery Centre at Clumber Park.
Barbara says that ‘Walking with Clumbers’ is taking over the Mezzanine in the Discovery Centre at Clumber Park to put up a visual display which describes some of the history and links between the Park, the Dukes and Clumber Spaniels.
National Trust publicity suggests visitors can “Delve into the various theories behind the mystery of how Clumber Spaniels became a distinct breed during the life of the 2nd Duke of Newcastle. Did they come from Spain? Were they sent from France to save them from the French Revolution? Did the Duc de Noailles give them to the Duke of Newcastle to settle a debt or as a gift? Or, alternatively, were they a distinct breed developed from others to make a dog for a specific purpose in the field?”
The display is based on the research Barbara Weston undertook prior to giving a talk to a National Trust supporters group recently; hopefully visitors will find it interesting and possibly thought provoking. The National Trust at Clumber Park is promoting the links between the breed and the Park, and ‘Walking with Clumbers’ has been assisting with some of their projects.
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 29th May 2023
Two for the price of one this week, results wise.
SKC was a day to remember for all the right reasons (if for one exhibitor a rather expensive one, but I am sure he did not mind). Jill Peak was our judge for the day and she found her DCC and BOB in Lee Cox’s Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist, Bruin, who then went on to win the Gundog Group under Christine Morgan. I understand that finding a hotel to stay in was a problem due to a Beyoncé concert being held - so off he trotted home to return on the Sunday for Best in Show which of course he won under Paul Harding. I dread to think of how many miles Lee will have travelled and how much fuel he had to buy. On the down side, I understand Bruin had a little nibble of something he shouldn’t on his journey, but I am sure Lee will forgive him. Keeping up a family thread, the Reserve DCC went to Bruin’s cousin Maursett Mordecai at Rocabec, (Elvis) owned by Peter and Julie Cumming (his mum and Bruin’s mum are litter sisters). We were already over the moon, but it got even better as yet another relation of Bruin’s, his Auntie this time, Maursett Marnie gained her all-important third CC, making it 3 Sh Ch’s out of this litter. Res BCC was another Vanitonia, Secret Episode owned by the Crocker, Frost, Cahill partnership and handled by Lee. Best Puppy was yet another Maursett, Meadie (Barney) owned by George and Lorna Brown and handled by daughter Lucy.
It was then a short break before we all headed south to Bath where Kath Kirkman judged us - the less said about the journey home the better, though it was worth it. Sh Ch Maursett Malachie at Molvonia, owned by Paul and Sue Whitehouse, took the DCC and BOB and was shortlisted in the group by Colin Woodward. Res DCC went to Linda Thorogood with Anbrook Don’t Stop me Now at Harrifeld. In the bitches it was a Maursett day again, the newly crowned Sh Ch Maursett Marnie kept her brother company claiming her 4th CC, with Maursett Masikean, ably handled in the challenge by Lucy Wareham, keeping up with her brother Elvis, getting the Res BCC. Best puppy was the recently imported Clumbraise Your Song owned by Mr amd Mrs Lovell - sorry I forgot to ask for your fore names.
Marnie decided to finish off the week in style by gaining the BOB at North Riding Gundog Club judged by Jennifer Millard and then going Reserve Best in Show under Tracey Hayes.
Just a word to those who discount the smallest puppies in a litter, do not automatically disregard them - if the puppy is the best as far as conformation and breed type is concerned, keep it. Marnie and her dad Mathos were both ‘tiddlers’ in their respective litters, possibly one of the reasons I bonded with them as I continually kept moving them on to the biggest teat. As the saying goes, size does not matter. On that note, I will be not be mentioning the present given to daughter Hannah at Bath by Lauren Wilson and Rachel Wareham!
We now have a breather till Three Counties where we are second in ring 1 after sixty German Shorthaired Pointer making eighty entries, who are in at 9am.
The results of the vote for committee are out and the club welcomes new committee members Paul Whitehouse, Michelle Dawson and Sandra Garrat who join Peter Sheppard for atwo year stint with Nigel Bryant serving for one year. Sara Kirkman, James Taylor and Sue Boden are still in situ for another year. All the officers stand as they were either not up for re-election or stood unopposed. The full list will be on the club website. It is sad that only 101voting papers were returned and four of those were spoilt.
I end with the sad news that Wilf Steele has died. His wife Cath awarded CCs in Clumbers and they had their girl Sula at the same time we had our first boy Claude some 40 years ago. Although Wilf did not show much, he was a well-known face stewarding at so many Open and Championship shows in the North of England. The funeral will be om Monday 5th June at Durham Crematorium at 2.30.
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 19th May 2023
Apologies for the lack of notes but we have been having a rather stressful time with a family member being hospitalised and then of course my birthday.
Many thanks to everyone for their best wishes, cards and presents for my birthday. I had a great weekend going to Wembley to watch the play-off between Notts County and Chesterfield from row 4 in the Royal Box. We were served a very nice meal prior to the match and I was suitably embarrassed when the Master of Ceremonies told everyone that it was my birthday and I was serenaded by all singing “Happy Birthday”. On the down side, we were in a different car park this time and it took 2 hours to get onto the M1 and in total over 6 hours to get home. We were entered at Border Counties Gundog the next day, but needless to say we did not make it. We were supposed to be picking up my birthday cake from Lucy Brown at the show, but they unfortunately could not go either as their boy Barney had been stung. I am so grateful to Lucy for bringing the cake down to the services near Carlisle and to her sister Claire for a beautiful portrait of Mathos which was a complete surprise. Mathos has now been immortalised twice - anyone would think he has a special place in my heart!
At Birmingham National, Penny Williams awarded Paul and Susanne Whitehouse the CC and Best of Breed with Sh Ch Maursett Malachie at Molvonia. The Reserve DCC went to Mary Hanney&rsquo
September already - crikey it will be Christmas before we know it! The television featured ‘Last Night of the Proms’ last Saturday and this always marks end of the summer for me.
So, onto the show results.
Welsh Kennel Club saw Jenny Miller judge Clumber Spaniels and it was an all-important third CC for Paul and Sue Whitehead’s now Sh Ch Maursett Muttley at Molvonia; he has been handled to all three CCs by Lucy Wareham. His uncle, Sh Ch Maursett Malachie at Molvonia, took the Reserve DCC. In the girls, it was another CC and BOB for Sh Ch Vanitonia Secret Episode owned by Blake Crocker, Ashleigh Frost and Mr and Mrs Cahill. The Reserve BCC went to Emma Mathews and Anne Moon with Vanitonia Song and Dance, while BP was Rachel Wareham’s Suelynda Dream On.
Next up was Richmond with Frank Whyte judging the breed. DCC was Lee Cox’s Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist with the Res DCC going to Lovell’s Clumbraise This is Your Song. In the girls, it was once again CC and BOB for Sh Ch Vanitonia Secret Episode owned by Blake Crocker, Ashleigh Frost and Mr and Mrs Cahill with the Res BCC going to Sue and Lauren Wilson’s Sh Ch Anbrook Fair Maid of Kent by Winhampton who was also BV. BP was David Taylor’s Creeaark Nereus at Mollynewf.
Then onto Darlington. I was stewarding on Friday, showing on Saturday and watching the Tibetan Spaniels on the Sunday accompanied by Zaya (Parloueve My Love For Maursett) who took it all in and was not in the slightest bit fazed by anything. Rodri, Oldcharm Can you Love Me at Maursett owned by Hannah and Dave showed her how to do it by winning Junior Dog. She is at her first show next Sunday in Baby Puppy! Anyway, on to results. Graeme Underwood was the Clumbers’ judge and he found his DCC and BOB in Lee Cox’s Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist, who went on to Gundog Group 2 under Mr E Engh. His litter brother, Ir Sh Ch Vanitonia Swashbuckler of Glenariff owned by Caroline Reynolds, picked up the Res DCC. In the girls, it was Hilda and Paul Monaghan’s Sh Ch Tweedsmuir She’s so Sheek who collected the BCC, with our own Maursett Masikean being awarded the Reserve BCC. Best Puppy was Allan and Diane Barrass’s Bebecova Uniqueness. As usual, it was good to catch up with everyone and put the world to rights as well as having a good laugh. Whilst at Darlington, the Pickerings very kindly gave us an important book about Tibetan Spaniels that they had spotted in a bookshop – we are so grateful to them for this and Tony, who is a bit of a “nerd” for old pedigrees, is having a field day going through this and updating his database. This is so nice of them – thank you.
Right - time now, for a bit of a moan. I think it is about time the Clumber Club Committee picked up the gauntlet and started to challenge the Kennel Club regarding our CC allocation. We have a breed club show and 2 sets of CCs at General Championship Shows in the 6 months between now and Crufts - it is not enough. It does nothing to encourage entries at Ch Shows if there are no CCs on offer for such a long space of time, hence why people like us go for a second breed so we can still go to a Championship show all year round.
Scotland has 2 general and 1 sub-group Ch show and only 1 set of CCs – the same goes for Wales. In my view, every championship show should have CCs for all breeds. Our allocation needs to be re assessed if we are going to attract new exhibitors into the breed. Tibetan Spaniels have CCs at every championship show and BUBA plus numerous breed clubs - their entry is often only in the 50s so it seems that Clumbers are being unfairly penalised for some reason. The approach taken regarding the reallocation of CCs is, in my view, counter productive and needs to be revisited at a time when our hobby (for that is what it is for most of us) is under serious pressure.
Finally, good wishes and a speedy recovery to Susanne Whitehouse who is undergoing surgery – I am sure you will all join with me in wishing her well.
Please do remember to let me know if you have any significant wins or awards at open shows or other events as I do not, as a matter of courtesy, simply list these from social media posts.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 14th August 2024
Sorry for the lack of notes recently, but there are only so many hours in a day and I have been rushed off my feet of late.
I did manage to escape to National Gundog, courtesy of Hannah driving me, with our Clumber Club Championship Show tagged on after it. The weather was fine and a little breezy and, even with the cloud cover, a number of us ended up sunburnt. It was good to catch up with everyone and Paul Whitehouse decorated the ring, ably assisted by Lucy Wareham, with bunting, making it quite a celebration.
John Newsham had a fantastic entry and there were hardly any absentees. DCC and BOB was Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist, owned by Lee Cox and ably handled by Adam Gardner. Res DCC went to Sh Ch Maursett Malachie at Molvonia. In the girls, BCC was Sh Ch Vanitonia Secret Episode owned by Blake Crocker, Ashleigh Frost and Mr and Mrs Cahill, Reserve BCC went to the Kirkman Clan with Kirkara Minerva McGonagall. Best Puppy was Knockhalon Put A Spell on You owned and bred by Nicola Stevenson, it was nice to see a decent entry of puppies. Best Special Beginners was Suelynda Let Me Be The One owned by Mr and Mrs Blackburn.
On to the Club show and Colin Woodward had also drawn a great entry. Dog CC, Reserve Best in Show and Best Opposite Sex was Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist with the Reserve DCC going to Dave and Sue Boden’s Suelynda Boom Bang a Bang. In the girls, it was once again Sh Ch Vanitonia Secret Episode who took the CC and also Best in Show. The Reserve BCC went to our Maursett Masikean. Best Puppy in Show was Jan Shipsides’s Tweedsmuir Midsummer Dream. Best Veteran at both shows was Sh Ch Anbrook Fair Maid of Kent by Winhampton. A new addition was the Baby Puppy Classes with Rachel Wareham’s Suelynda Dream on declared Best Baby Puppy.
Ed Casey did the Special Classes and the winners are as follows. Puppy was a repeat of the Club show, Junior was Suelynda Boom Bang a Bang. Post Grad was Badgersmoon Most Wanted. Open was won by Maursett Muttley at Molvonia handled by Lucy Wareham. A slapped wrist goes to him indoors who had failed to put the entry in for the Special classes!
Our new Tibetan Spaniel - Parloueve My Love For Maursett, better known as Zaya – has arrived and you would think she had lived here all her life - talk about outgoing! She is referred to as the pocket rocket and, boy, can she move.
Please do remember to let me know if you have any significant wins or awards at open shows or other events as I do not, as a matter of courtesy, take them from social media posts.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 24th June 2024
Thought I had better get these done before turning into a zombie, yes you guessed it, the patter of tiny Clumber paws have arrived. For some reason our girls do not like to carry puppies in the normal fashion. It was a rushed visit to the vet to deliver the pups, with one horn laying on top of the other horn and squashed right up high. I can tell you our vet Emma had a right job untangling them all, but did so safely. Mum and babies are all doing fine.
Windsor saw Kieth Young judging 10 dogs and 5 females, finding his DCC and BOB in Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist who went on to go Gundog Group 2 under Richard Stafford. Many will not know but way back when, Richard had a Clumber as well as his Labradors. Res DCC went to Linda Thorogood’s Anbrook Don’t Stop Me Now at Harrifield. In the girls it was Sh Ch Tweedsmuir She’s so Sheik who was awarded the CC, owned by Paul and Hilda Monaghan, with Winhampton Pandoras Box owned by Sue and Lauren Wilson collecting the Res CC. Not to be outdone kennel mate Sh Ch Anbrook Fair Maid of Kent by Winhampton was Best Veteran. There were no puppies present as the only one entered was absent.
As well as the patter of Clumber paws the house will be ringing to the sound of puppy Tibetan Spaniel paws when Parlouve My Love to Maursett arrives shortly, to be known as Zaya. We fell in love with the breed a year ago and with Clumbers having so few Championship Shows with CCs now decided to go for a breed that we can pick and choose which shows to go to, rather than feel compelled to enter the few shows where Clumbers have CCs. Plus it means I do not have to run round the ring anymore and Tony can show again too.
Talking of shows, judges for next year are slow at being published, not many to report yet.
Please do remember to let me know if you have any significant wins or awards at open shows or other events as I do not, as a matter of courtesy, take them from social media posts.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 24th June 2024
No CCs at Three Counties where judge Mr D Telford had 7 dogs and 5 girls to go over. He found his DCC and BOB in Lee Cox’s Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist who then went on and won the Gundog Group under Pam Blay and then Reserve Best in Show under Ken Newhouse. Reserve Best Dog was Paul and Sue Whitehouse’s Sh Ch Maursett Malachie at Molvonia. BB was Vanitonia Song and Dance owned by Emma Mathews and Anne Moon, Reserve BB was the Dawson’s Beskerby Flora Finching with the Best Puppy award going to Dave Tilston’s Maursett Menelaus.
Blackpool, another show without CCs for Clumber Spaniels, saw 5 dogs and 8 girls making 6 and 10 entries for judge Mr Hans van den Berg. He found his Best Dog and Best of Breed in Clumbus Jolly Jumper of Taranstigh, owned by Jaquelyn and Stuart Nicholson and Aislyn Risk, who then went to North of England Spaniel Club and went BOB under Eddie Webster then Reserve Best in Show under Judith Carruthers. Best Female was Sh Ch Vanitonia Secret Episode owned by Blake Crocker, Ashleigh Frost and Mr and Mrs Cahill. Best Puppy once again went to Dave Tilston’s Maursett Menelaus.
Windsor has Kieth Young judging us and he has drawn an entry of 14 dogs and 8 girls making 22 and 11 entries. Clumbers are second in Ring 15 after 48 English Springers (making 70 entries); according to the judging order the judging of English Springers does not start until 10.30 which seems a little odd as this will mean a very late start for the Clumbers.
I understand that Kelly Jeffries did not handle her new puppy at Bath, but daughter Zennor showed her -another junior handler coming through the ranks?
The Breed Record Supplement shows 9 litters being registered in the first quarter totalling 38 puppies, slightly down on last year. This included one who whelped a fourth litter just before her eighth birthday. Only three of the litters in the latest BRS are from what would be considered as “show” dogs, so let us hope that the next quarter will see more from the show lines to encourage a reduction in some of the high breeding co-efficient.
No shows for our Maursett Mob of Clumbers for some time, but we are keeping a keen eye on things at Champ shows as we watch the gremlin (aka Oldcharm Can You Love Me at Maursett, the Tibetan Spaniel). Not sure if he really thinks he is a Clumber Spaniel, or an English Setter (which we also have) – when we were at Blackpool Champ Show, we bumped into some friends with their five English Setters and he was in his element!
The Clumber Spaniel Club is holding a Breed Assessment Day (BAD), Multiple Choice Examination (MCE) and Hands-on and this is scheduled for 17th November 2024. I understand from the Secretary that application forms are available on the breed club website, although I did check at the time of writing these notes (25th June 2024) and could not locate them. Keep an eye out of the CSC website for further details.
And now to the Cancer Research Race for Life. I actually quite surprised myself and got round easily, albeit not at a running pace I might add and I was accompanied by daughter Hannah and grandkids Sam and Ben. Tony, of course, got out of it through the minor irritant of ruptured knee ligaments so stayed at home on dog watch. Many thanks to those who have already donated to the cause. I am so grateful to you all, as many of you will know that I have had - and continue to have - my own personal battle with this horrible disease since 2021. If anyone still wishes to contribute I will be so grateful - just click on the link:
https://tinyurl.com/3w3wup9h
Please do remember to let me know if you have any significant wins or awards at open shows or other events as I do not, as a matter of courtesy, take them from social media posts.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 27th May 2024
Sorry for the delay in my Breed Notes, but due to technical problems beyond my control I have been unable to publish them. Hopefully, everything is now all fixed.
Unfortunately, I did not make it to WELKS for gundog day as my travel partner was busy with a girl due to whelp. I did however make it on the Sunday to watch Hannah show the Tibbie. I understand the weather was not kind and it was very cold on gundog day; luckily it had warmed up a little by Sunday. Hilary Male was awarding CCs in Clumbers for the first time and found her DCC, his 10th, in Sh Ch Maursett Mallachie at Molvonia owned by Paul and Sue Whitehouse. The Reserve DCC went to Vanitonia Something Extra owned by Dee Carter Hunt and Adam Gardner. BCC, BOB and Gundog Group 4 was Sh Ch Vanitonia Secret Episode owned by Blake Crocker, Ashleigh Frost and Mr and Mrs Cahill. Res BCC was Paul and Hilda Monaghan’s Sh Ch Tweedsmuir She’s So Sheek. Best Puppy went to Suelynda Let Me Be The One owned by Mrs C and Mr J Blackburn.
The National was judged by Eunice King who found her DCC and BOB in Lee Cox’s Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist who then went on and won the Gundog Group under Patsy Hollings. Reserve DCC went to Dave and Sue Boden’s Puppy Suelynda Boom Bang a Bang who was also Best Puppy. In the bitch classes, it was a first CC for the Kirkman Clans puppy, Kirkara Minerva McGonagall, with our Maursett Masikean picking up yet another Res CC. Rachel Wareham had a good day getting third in the Special Beginners with Prestij Nachii Mandarin Shik under Robin Newhouse. We had a get together after judging with plenty of food and drinks.
At SKC, Jane Howarth was our Judge and found her DCC and BOB in Caroline Reynolds’ Vanitonia Swashbuckler of Glenariff, his first, with the Res CC going to Ricky Furnell’s Sh Ch Vanitonia Rio Sonora to Bebacova. BCC her first, after many Reserves, was our Maursett Masikean and Res BCC was Ricky’s Bebacova Scarlet Witch with Best Puppy going to Natalie Stevenson’s Knockhalon Put a Spell on You. We were unable to stay for the October Show judged by Irene Glenn - her Best Dog and Best of Breed was a repeat of the May Ch show result as was Best Puppy.
At a slightly muddy Bath, DCC was Paul and Sue Whitehouse’s Maursett Muttley at Malvonia, his second and I am told expertly handled in the challenge by Lucy Wareham. The Res CC going to Badgersmoon The Most Wanted owned by Thompson, Fenwick Langridge consortium. BCC and BOB was Sh Ch Vanitonia Secret Episode owned by Blake Crocker, Ashleigh Frost and Mr and Mrs Cahill. I understand congratulation are in order to Blake and Ashleigh as the patter of two feet are expected. Res BCC was Vanitonia Song and Dance owned by Emma Mathews and Anne Moon with Best Puppy going to Kelly and James Jefferies with Abbyford One Seren Ashe of Jubilwell. Nice to see Kelly back in the ring after a long absence. We were absent due to Gertie being in season.
Please do not forget to let me know if you do have any significant wins or awards at Open Shows as I do not, as a matter of policy and courtesy, take them from social media.
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 14th April 2024
Unfortunately, I did not make it to the Clumber Club Open Show due to my dear husband sharing his germs with me. I understand the weather was not kind and therefore the judging was done indoors. There were eight absentees leaving Alastair Moss thirteen dogs and ten bitches to go over. BB and Best in Show was Paul and Hilda Monaghan’s Sh Ch Tweedsmuir She’s So Sheek, Reserve BB and Reserve Best in Show was Anne Moon’s and Emma Mathews Vanitonia Song and Dance. Best Opposite Sex was Paul and Hilda’s Kensequi Nice at Tweedsmuir JW and Best Puppy in Show was the Kirkman’s Clan’s Kirkara Minerva Mcgonagall which Sara shows. Best Veteran was Marjorie Charlesworth Ironside’s Tavirosh Stonewall.
I have heard little about the AGM, but do know that the proposition to lower the weight in our standard was, thank heavens, defeated. I also understand that there seems to be a problem with the Clumber Spaniel Club’s website at the moment which no doubt will be resolved soon.
The Clumber Spaniel lunch at the Kennel Club was a great success and I hope this could become a yearly event. Sara Kirkman organised our break in London, finding us a good Airbnb. She drove Kath, myself and Hannah down to London where we met up with Lyndsey Steele who had flown down from Aberdeen. The lunch was very tasty, as was the wine, and the tour to see the Library, the art and photography collections was amazing. Gina Bowers even found a photo of a very, very young Lee Cox showing a Clumber. The chairman of the Kennel Club, Tony Allcock, popped in to see us and commented how good it was to see and hear people enjoying themselves, which we certainly were. I hope Lyndsey has recovered from paying a small fortune for a sandwich and coffee in Harrods.
I understand the Scottish Clumberites got together this weekend for a Chinese meal. It would be good for the Club to organise an event/show in Scotland bearing in mind that it is the Clumber Spaniel Club of Great Britain and the number of exhibitors in Scotland is growing year by year.
Talking of those north of the border, I must apologise to Jacquelyn Nicolson for omitting her Best of Breed and Group 1 at Lanarkshire Canine Society under Mrs Alexandra Hill with Clumbus Jolly Jumper of Taranstigh (Ruben to his friends). Meanwhile, I see in a separate critique that we again apparently have a breed specific roll! I do wish judges would make themselves aware of the Kennel Club standard when they judge and do their write-ups, as it is disrespectful to refer to a feature that was removed from the breed standard nearly twenty years ago. Clumber spaniels to not have a characteristic rolling gait.
The show season kicks off with WELKS this month, with Hilary Male awarding CCs in our breed for the first time. She has drawn an entry of sixteen dogs and nine bitches, which is not too bad considering it is on a Thursday. Next will be the National, again on a Thursday, judged by Eunice King, followed by SKC which is holding both shows together. At SKC, we are on a Sunday with CCs at the first show (Jane Howarth) and an open show at the second (Irene Glen). Reduced rates were offered if you entered both shows; it will be interesting to see how this pans out. Bath finishes off the month with Jeff Horsfield, another weekday show with the added dynamic of it being a Bank Holiday Monday. We then have a big gap until Windsor and another before Leeds at the end of July.
Please do not forget to let me know if you do have any significant wins or awards at Open Shows as I do not, as a matter of policy and courtesy, take them from social media.
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 14th March 2024
Well, that’s it over with for yet another year. It is frightening that it is 40 years since we first attended Crufts. Back then, the show was held at Earls Court in London and I recovered a lot quicker in those days. Am I the only one to feel like I have been hit by a bus for days afterwards.
Our judge, Ian Layfield, looked exceedingly smart, being suited and booted complete with bow tie. Ian always wears a bow tie when judging to avoid a tie flapping about and possibly frightening the dogs. He found his DCC and BOB in Lee Cox’s Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist with his younger brother Vanitonia Something Extra (owned by Dee Carter Hunt and Adam Gardner) picking up the Reserve DCC. BCC was Sh Ch Vanitonia Secret Episode owned by the Crocker, Frost, Cahill partnership, with the Res BCC going to our Maursett Masikean and BP Beskerby Flora Finching owned by Ian, Pam and Michelle Dawson. Best Veteran was Multi Ch Big Booms Joker Donkey owned by Lana Levai.
There were very few absentees and it was nice to catch up with friends from Europe. In the Open Dog and Open Bitch classes, there were only two exhibits from the UK - the rest being from Europe. It must be the first time for a number of years that UK dogs have done so well at Crufts.
It was sad to hear that the keyboard warriors were straight on to social media spouting the usual rubbish about the dogs exhibited at Crufts. Did you know that today’s Clumbers are nothing like those in Victorian times? Thank heavens they are not, having read critiques from Crufts way back when and seen photos of them we have moved on with better and healthier Clumbers now being shown.
Just before Crufts, I had some news from the Brown family in Scotland. They have Maursett Meadie (aka Barney) and he won AVNSC and Group 2 at Tayside and Lochee under judge Frances Carlton.
Entries are closing thick and fast, with both Edwinstowe and the Clumber Club Open Show closing soon, and then WELKS followed by SKC.
Please do not forget to let me know if you do have any significant winning at Open Shows as I do not take them from social media.
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 28th January 2024
Well, that’s the first Championship show of the year done and dusted.
It was a long wait to get in the ring and a tad chilly, but it was also a good opportunity to catch up with folks. Gordon Haran found his DCC in Maja Bubalo’s Int Ch Hrothgar’s Hop Skip N Jump giving him his UK title, with Vanitonia Something Extra (owned by Dee Carter Hunt and Adam Gardner) having a fabulous day picking up the Reserve DCC, Best Puppy in Breed, Gundog Puppy Group 1 then Reserve Best Puppy in Show under Tom Mather. BCC and BOB was Sh Ch Vanitonia Secret Episode owned by the Crocker, Frost, Cahill partnership, with the Res BCC going to Paul and Hilda Monaghan’s Sh Ch Tweedsmuir Just a Dream. There were quite a few baby puppies taking advantage of the £5 spectator dog offer and all seemed to be quite chilled.
Eunice King has asked me to remind all members that their subscriptions are due by the end of the month – full details on the Clumber Spaniel Club’s website. Anyone who fancies going to the Clumber lunch at the Kennel Club on 3rd April 2024 also needs to cough up their monies to the Club via Paypal or direct debit (remember to reference your names) or, alternatively, a cheque to the Club’s Treasurer John Newsham. Also, a brief reminder about the AGM where nominations for Officers, Committee, Judges and Agenda Items are also due in shortly.
Meanwhile, I see that Crufts entries have been extended, so if you have not got round to entering I suggest you get a move on.
Please do not forget to let me know if you do any significant winning at Open Shows as I do not take them from social media.
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 12th December 2023
The last championship show of the season saw LKA at it’s new venue. I thought it went down well - great car parking staff and a far shorter walk in to the venue, plus of course docked breeds could enter. The only draw back for us was being so late in the ring. An empty ring was eventually found for us, but that was at about 3pm. Still it gave us all time to shop, eat and catch up with everyone.
Richard Bott was awarding CCs in our breed for the first time and had a great entry which was unfortunately decimated due to people being ill (more about that later) and kennel cough. It was a bit of a family affair, with Dee Carter Hunt and Adam Gardner’s Vanitonia Something Extra gaining his first CC and Best Puppy and subsequently Puppy Group 3 under Keith Young, with litter brother Vanitonia Swashbuckler of Glenariff owned by Caroline Reynolds, picking up the Reserve Dog CC. These two boys are by Sh Ch Vanitonia The Force Awakens out of Maursett Morveen of Vanitonia.
BCC (social media prevents me from using the proper word!) was Sh Ch Vanitonia Secret Episode owned by Blake Crocker, Ashleigh Frost and Mr and Mrs Cahill; she is by Sh Ch Anbrook Burma Star at Brazenhill out of Vanitonia Ginny for Short. Bringing up the rear was our own Maursett Masikean, gaining her third Reserve CC . She is by our Sh Ch Maursett Mathos JW and out of Sh Ch Maursett Mercy (who happens to be litter sister to Maursett Morveen of Vanitonia).
The atmosphere round the benches and ring was jovial. This was in no small part due to the cheeky comments made about me by my darling daughter along with her partner in crime Lauren Wilson; there was even the odd comment from Alistair Kirkman thrown in for good measure, lol!
Talking about Lauren, she and mum Sue had a good day out at Crystal Palace Canine Association under judge Blake Crocker, where they went Best AVNSC Puppy then won the Puppy Group.
Now, I am afraid, onto the sick list. First off, Clumber Spaniel Club President Ian Layfield has been laid low after having a heart attack. All being well, he has been sorted out and should be back fighting fit very quickly. Jonathan Thompson has also been poorly I understand so was missing from the show. Joining this unfortunate list is Rachel Wareham who has been in hospital for over a week and therefore missing too from the show. Get well soon to all three and I am sure they would welcome a card.
The Clumber Club are holding a Breed Assessment Day on Sunday 25th February at Shirland Village Hall. Full details are available from the Clumber Spaniel Club’s Hon Secretary, Secretary Eunice King, by telephone on 01246 476059 or by email at the following:
secretary@clumberspanielclub.org.uk
The Club are also wanting dogs on the day to take part in the hands-on section of the day, so do please contact Eunice if you can help.
We have a change of judge for Birmingham National - Eunice King is now our judge instead of Mick Howes.
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 13th November 2023
Gundog Breeds of Scotland no longer has CCs for us – I was the last one to judge them with CCs there many years ago. Once again, Lee Cox came raiding over border going Best of Breed under judge Alessandro Zeppi and then Best in Show under Hilary Male. That is two Best in Shows in Scotland this year for Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist - they will be taking his passport off him. BB and also Best Puppy was the Dawson’s Beskerby Flora Finching.
The Clumber Spaniel breed lunch at the Kennel Club is going to be on Wednesday 3rd April cost £48.50. Full details are available from the Clumber Spaniel Club’s Secretary, Eunice King, via email at the following address:
secretary@clumberspanielclub.org.uk
Now, on to judges for next year, (with the year and where they last judged showing). There are still a couple missing, but here are the ones I have right now:
• Manchester - Gordon Harran (SWKA 2019)
• Crufts – Ian Layfield (SWKA 2018)
• Clumber Club Open Show – Alistair Moss
• WELKS – Hilary Male (1st time)
• Birmingham National – Mick Howes (Bath 2022)
• SKC – Jane Howarth (GSOW 2022)
• Bath – Jeff Horswell (SKC 2017)
• Windsor – Keith Young (Manchester 2016)
• Leeds – Moray Armstrong (GSOW 2016)
• National Gundog – John Newsham (Manchester 2020)
• WKC – Jenny Miller (Bournemouth 2015)
• Darlington – Graham Underwood (National Gundog 2019)
• Clumber Club show 1 - Lee Cox (3 Counties 2022)
• Show 2 - Colin Woodward (East of England 2018)
• LKA - Richard Morris (1st time)
That makes just five breed specialists, with nine all-rounders in total for next year with just City of Birmingham, Richmond and South Wales Kennel yet to be announced.
Apologies for getting a name wrong in my critique for the Clumber Spaniel Club Ch Show. Third in Limit Bitch should read Gracedieu Stars and Stripes, not Gracedieu Brooklyn Bridge, This has been amended, but of course the critiques remain correct.
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 7th November 2023
No classes for us at Midland Counties, but three Clumbers were entered in the AVNSC classes under Richard Bott. It was another great day for Vanitonia, with Lee Cox’s Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist gaining the Best Dog Award, Best AVNSC before winning the Gundog Group under Chris Bexon. Reserve Best Dog was Dave Tilston’s Stonielea Toast. In the girls, BB (and Best Puppy) was Ricky Furnell’s Bebecova Scarlet Witch.
The Club is thinking of organising a lunch at the Kennel Club if there is sufficient interest. This is in the format that the Kennel Club have introduced in recent years for other breeds and would include being able to visit the KC’s extensive library and a viewing of some of the amazing works of art on display in Clarges Street (a painting of Clumber Spaniels is being exhibited at present). Anyone who is interesting in attending should contact the Clumber Spaniel Club’s Secretary, Eunice King, at the following address: secretary@clumberspanielclub.org.uk
Entries for the last Championship show of the year LKA are closing soon (indeed, as I write these notes, I see the closing date has been extended until noon on the 14th November 2023 for online entries). This year, LKA is being held at Stafford with Richard Bott awarding CCs in Clumbers for the first time. Where has this year gone? It seems that the older I get, the faster they fly by – as if to verify that point, I see entries for the National are now online to enter for the May 2024 show!
I hope you all weathered the storm Ciarán. I checked in with Ginny Heaume who lives in Gurnsey, as the Channel Islands were badly hit. She said the winds were scary, but that they were all okay.
Linda Thorogood took Stoker, Anbrook Don’t Stop Me Now at Harrifield, to East Kent Canine Society and he was Best AVNSC and Gundog Group 3 under judge Megan Dodd.
Hannah and I were at the North of England Tibetan Spaniel Club’s Championship Show on Saturday, and it was really well run and friendly. Prize money, as well as goodie bags for all winners, fabulous rosettes, a huge raffle and guess the weight of the Christmas cake plus a Breed shop that was packed with goodies. At the end of the show, beautiful certificates were given to all the dogs that had gained their title the previous year.
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 23rd October 2023
At South Wales Kennel Association, Michelle Meredith (Andchelle) was our judge; though no longer in the breed, Michelle bred and made up numerous show champions, including our first Sh Ch Andchelle My Fair Lady from Maursett.
It was a great day for Vanitonia, with Lee Cox’s Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist gaining the Dog CC and going Best of Breed then taking Group 2 under Doreen Smille Gray. Bitch CC was Sh Ch Vanitonia Secret Episode owned by Blake Crocker, Ashleigh Frost and Mr and Mrs Cahill. The Reserve BCC was our own Sh Ch Maursett Marnie. Best Puppy was Vanitonia Something Extra owned by Dee Carter Hunt and Adan Gardner, who also was awarded the Res Dog CC and, under Nick Gourley, won the Puppy Group. Well done to all the winners.
Well, it has arrived! Hannah and Dave are now proud owners of a bundle of fur known as Rodri the Tibetan Spaniel (posh name Oldcharm Can you Love Me at Maursett TAF). Although two weeks younger than our two, soon to be one, Clumber girls he has, shall we say, attitude! He has been here five minutes and now rules the roost.
The Clumber Spaniel Club is running a Breed Assessment Day (Hands on) at Shirland Village Hall on Saturday 4th November 2023. You must have passed the BAD and MCE to be able to attend. Full details from:
Mrs Eunice King
Hon Secretary – The Clumber Spaniel Club
57 Elliott Drive
Inkersall
Chesterfield
Derbyshire S43 3DZ
Telephone: 01246 476059
E-mail - secretary@clumberspanielclub.org.uk
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 12th October 2023
While were all at the Clumber Club Show last weekend, a little Mob of Maursetts went off to Mid Western Gundog and Paul and Sue Whitehouse’s Sh Ch Maursett Malachie at Malvonia (Garfield) was Best of Breed under Howard Ogden before going on to take 3rd Best in Show. Fast forward to following weekend and Garfield, having gone Best of Breed under Sharon Rossiter, then won the Gundog Group under Russell Mosedale, at Birmingham Gundog and Terrier. He was then up for Best in Show which was being judged jointly by Russell Mosedale and Joe Ashe, with Jenny Miller as referee, and Garfield was then declared Best in Show.
North of the border, it was Jacquelyn and Stuart Nicholson’s Danish import Clumbus Jolly Jumper of Taranstigh taking high honours going Best AVNSC then Group 4 under Bill Molton at Paisley and District.
Heading back south and Linda Thorogood went to Guildford and District with Anbrook Don’t Stop Me at Harrifield and was Best AVNSC the Group 3 under Ray Strudwick.
Paul and Hilda Monaghan’s Kenesqui Nice at Tweedsmuir had a good day out at East Anglian Gundog going Best Puppy, Best of Breed judged by Daisy Toublic (Cobhay) and then Best Puppy in Show 4.
Well done folks a great weekend for the breed.
It was our last set of CCs at Gundog Society of Wales and Carol Coode was judging. Dog CC was Lee Cox’s Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist, with Lynda Thorogood gaining the Res CC with Anbrook Don’t Stop Me Now at Harrifield. In bitches, it was another CC with Best of Breed for Sh Ch Vanitonia Secret Episode owned by Blake Crocker, Ashleigh Frost and Mr and Mrs Cahill. Res Bitch CC, a first, for Abbyford Lady Merry of Ivale owned by Martyn and Jo Lovell. Best Puppy was Vanitonia Something Extra owned by Dee Carter Hunt and Adan Gardner. Well done to all the winners.
Tony, Hannah and I went off to attend the Breed Assessment Day run by the North of England Tibetan Spaniel Club, just to learn a little about the breed. After an extremely informative morning session and being able to go over some of the breed we were talked into doing the MCE which we passed. We had an excellent lunch and then once again got talked into doing the hands-on assessment, which once again we all passed. I must say the quality of the information and the beautiful presentation pack plus a bag of goodies was excellent. The extended standard was given with clarity and explained so much about why the breed is as it is - quality information relayed succinctly and a great, friendly bunch of officers and committee. We thoroughly enjoyed our day.
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 4th October 2023
The weather held fine for the Clumber Spaniel Club Championship Show last Sunday, albeit somewhat o. That meant we were able to have the judging outside, which is always a plus. It was your truly judging the breed, and Michelle Dawson judged the Special Classes.
As usual, there was a good atmosphere ringside with plenty of laughter and the committee doing a sterling job. Dog CC and Best in Show was Lee Cox’s Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist, Res Dog CC (a second in quick succession) was Jacquelyn and Stuart Nicholson’s Danish import Clumbus Jolly Jumper of Taranstigh. In the bitches, it was another CC, Reserve Best in Show and Best Opposite Sex for Dave and Sue Boden’s Sh Ch Suelynda Kreme Della Kreme, with Gerry and Lyndsey Steele’s Stonilea Williams Legacy collecting her first Reserve CC. I awarded Best Puppy in Show to Paul and Hilda Monaghan’s Kenesqui Nice at Tweedsmuir.
The committee in the kitchen were ably assisted by Kath Kirkman and it was good to catch up with her for a chat and some good banter.
I was sorry to hear that Blake Crocker, Ashleigh and their baby son had been unwell and therefore unable to attend the show. I do hope they have all recovered. It is bad enough when adults are ill, but when it is babies and children it is so very hard.
Talking of poorly people, him indoors is now onto his second lot of antibiotics and steroids to try and shift the nasty chest infection that he has; don’t worry it’s not the dreaded Covid, he has been testing regularly and is clear of that particular nasty.
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 15th September 2023
Last Friday saw Christine Morgan awarding CCs in Clumbers for the first time. Once again there were a number of absentees, with only 9 dogs and 6 bitches present. Dog CC and yet again a new show Champion was Ricky Furnell’s Vanitonia Rio Sonora to Bebecova, whilst his litter sister the newly crowned Vanitonia Secret Episode owned by Blake Crocker, Ashleigh Frost and Shaun and Stephanie Cahill collected her fourth CC and Best of Breed. Ashleigh handled her in the group and a great job she made of it too, you may have lost a job Blake! The Reserve Dog CC and Best Puppy was awarded to Clumbraise Your Song imported from Norway by Jo and Martyn Lovell. The Reserve Bitch CC once again went to Sue and Lauren Wilson’s Winhampton Pandoras Box.
We move on to this Friday (15th September) where Sarah Sevastopulo was our judge at Darlington and had 16 dogs and 6 bitches present. A first CC and Best of Breed for Jacquelyn and Stuart Nicholson’s Danish import Clumbus Jolly Jumper of Taranstigh, with Linda Thorogood collecting another Reserve CC with Anbrook Don’t Stop Me Now at Harrifield. In bitches, it was a fourth CC foe Dave and Sue Boden’s Sh Ch Suelynda Kreme Della Kreme with Jacqeline Pickering’s Dutch import Wymeswold Verdejo at Greencourt collecting the Reserve CC. Paul and Hilda Monaghan won another Best Puppy in Breed with Kenesqui Nice at Tweedsmuir, out of a whopping 10 puppies present.
Our seven little darlings are now five weeks old and have been evicted to the puppy kennel. They already have developed their own personalities and really are time wasters at this age.
We only have 4 sets of CCs left for this year, the Clumber Spaniel Club Show, South Wales Kennel, Gundog Society of Wales and then the nearly two months gap until LKA which has of course moved to Stafford from this year. Next year we lose three sets of CCs, but do gain an extra Breed Club Championship Show held in conjunction with a Championship show. Once again, we have a big gap, Bath at the end of May then two months until Leeds at the end of July, as we have lost Three Counties and East of England. The other loss is Gundog Society of Wales. I think this strategy by the Kennel Club should perhaps be revisited, as reducing the number of shows with big gaps does not encourage new exhibitors into the breed in my opinion.
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 4th September 2023
Well, here we are yet another month has gone and we heading into autumn.
Birmingham saw Pam Blay award CCs in our breed for the first time and she had a cracking entry, but unfortunately a high absentee rate - we were guilty, I am afraid, as all our girls decided to come into season with only Hannah and Dave’s Pearl not yet in. There was still a quality entry and it was another CC and BOB for Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist owned by Lee Cox, with his younger brother Vanitonia Something Extra going Best Puppy and Gundog Puppy Group 2 at just 6 months old (he is owned by Lee’s mum Dee Carter Hunt and Adam Gardener). The bitch CC, the all important third, was awarded to Vanitonia Secret Episode owned by Blake Crocker, Ashleigh Frost and Shaun and Stephanie Cahill. The Reserve CCs went to Maursett Muttley at Molvonia owned by Paul and Sue Whitehouse and Big Boom’s Viking Liv Beskerby owned by Ian, Pam and Michelle Dawson. Best Junior was Stonielea Toast owned by David Tilston and Best Special Beginners was Rachel Wareham’s Prestij Nachii Mandarin Shik.
Darlington has drawn an entry of 24 for Sarah Sevastapulo. Clumbers are in Ring 12 at 9am; unfortunately, we are looking after our grandsons and have to get them to school and college, so have had to give a miss to what is our local show.
Linda Thorogood tells me that she had a good day at Hampshire Gundog with Anbrook Don’t Stop Me Now At Harrifield, (Stoker) going Best of Breed under Jackie Crawford and then BIS 4 under Carol Coode.
We seem to be enjoying a brief Indian summer right now. Unfortunately, due to health issues, I cannot sit out and enjoy the glorious weather, not that I have a great deal of spare time at the moment. The seven little darlings are now on solid food and I seem to spend all my time putting it in one end and clearing it up from the other! The pups are also at the “we can help you stage”. It is a wonder I have not stood one and I do end up exhausted by the time fresh bedding and puppy pads are in place!
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 23rd August 2023
Welsh Kennel Club saw Jacqui Ward awarding CCs in the breed. It was a bit of a disappointing entry - presumably the distance will have put a number of people off, we have puppies so are not at any shows this month.
Anyway, as long as there is quality there then all is well and Jacqui withheld last time she judged us so her top winners will certainly have been of the quality required. She found her Dog CC and Best of Breed in Ricky Furnell’s Vanitonia Rio Sonaro to Bebecova, his second, with Paul and Sue Whitehouse’s Sh Ch Maursett Mallachie at Molvonia picking up the Reserve Dog CC. In the bitches – and not to be outdone by her kennel mate - Bebecova Scarlet Witch collected her first CC and Best Puppy. The Reserve bitch CC was another Puppy - James Taylor and Mike Hilton’s Delsaux Fly me to the Moon. A little mention for new Clumber exhibitors David and Kim Tilson with their first Clumber dog Stonielea Toast (aka Quinn) who as well as winning his class went to win the Junior Vulnerable Breed class. Well done – just a shame David did not get round to collecting his £25 winnings for the Vulnerable breed class.
Driffield without CCs has 12 dogs making 12 entries we are second in Ring 20 after 15 Sussex Spaniels making 17 entries, judging starts at 9am.
The City of Birmingham championship show sees Pam Blay awarding CCs in Clumbers and she has drawn a good entry of 39 making 41 entries. Clumbers are first in Ring 3, Hall 2 at 9am. Another early start for many of us.
Meanwhile, it is always good to receive news of successes at Open Shows. I had a note from Karen Cornwall who had a good day at Scunthorpe Canine Association’s open show with her puppy, Creeaark Jensen, who went Gundog Puppy Group 2 from the AVNSC classes under judge Roger Perkins.
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 14th August 2023
Sorry for the delay in in these notes but the patter of tiny paws has arrived rendering me resembling a zombie. Normal service will resume in a few weeks.
National Gundog last Sunday saw Gina Bowers stand in for Linda McGillivary (more from Linda later).
Gina found her Dog CC and Best of Breed in Lee Cox’s Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist, with Paul and Sue Whitehouse’s Maursett Muttley picking up the Reserve Dog CC. In bitches it was that all important third CC for Dave and Sue Boden’s Suelynda Kreme Della Kreme with Winhampton Pandoras Box belonging to Sue and Laren Wilson, getting the Reserve Bitch CC. Best puppy was Kensesqui Nice at Tweedsmuir owned by Paul and Hilda Monaghan, with Best Special Beginners going to Burge’s Gracedieu Brooklyn Bridge.
I was judging Bracco Italiano and was over the moon that my Best of Breed Sh Ch Braccorions Never Say Never JW went on to become Best in Show. As I was second in the ring, we managed to catch both of the horrific downpours and must have resembled drowned rats by the end of judging.
Meanwhile, as mentioned earlier, I have received a note from Linda McGillivary asking me to put an apology in these notes for exhibitors who had entered under her at National Gundog.
Linda writes: “My recovery after a total knee replacement on 22nd May was going well, I didn’t foresee any problem about judging today. On my follow up appointment, the surgeon although pleased with my recovery, suggested a MUA (manipulation under anaesthetic) - this breaks up any scar tissue around the knee helping it bend fully. An overnight stay in hospital & no driving for 48 hours I thought ok, unfortunately I ended up with swelling, pain & back using crutches.
Regrettably I then had to inform the secretary I wasn’t fit enough to judge. I was gutted as I was so looking forward to judging the Clumbers especially with such a lovely entry. I was pleased it was a breed judge who took over my appointment.
Thank you, Gina Bowers, for stepping in to take over my appointment.”
The entry for Welsh Kennel Club is 18 dogs making 22 entries. Clumbers are in Ring 1 after 11 American Cocker Spaniels making 12 entries.
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 3rd August 2023
Friday saw us going to one of our local shows at Leeds, where Anthony Allen was awarding CCs in the breed for the first time.
It was a new layout and one or two were pointing out that we could have done with two entrances, rather than just the one, and that the BIS ring would have been better in the centre. Another gripe (sorry) was that Best Special Beginners Group was done before breed judging was finished so many did not get to compete.
Anyway, we had no problems and on to judging. Dog CC went to Dave and Sue Boden’s Sh Ch Tweedsmuir Just Cruzin Among Suelynda with Linda Thorogood picking up the Reserve with Anbrook Don’t Stop me Now at Harrifeld. The bitch CC, her second, went to Vanitonia Secret Episode owned by the Crocker, Frost Cayhill partnership and handled by Blake and Tony and I collected a second Reserve CC with young Maursett Masikean. Best Puppy was Ricky Furnell’s Bebecova Scarlet Witch who went on to get Puppy Group 3 from judge Lee Cox - a nice birthday present for Ricky.
National Gundog sees Clumbers with a change of judge as Linda Magillivary has withdrawn. Gina Bowers will now be judging in her place. Gina last judged Clumbers at Richmond in 2019. There is a good entry of 19 dogs making 22 entries and 19 bitches making 24 entries. We are second in Ring 17 after 49 American Cockers making 54 entries (judging for them starts at 9am). The show is unbenched, so do remember to take chairs and crates. We are not entered as I am judging Bracco Italiano. As I am second in the ring after 72 Gordon Setters making 107 entries, I hope to be able to watch most, if not all of the Clumber judging.
Meanwhile, I had a message from Eunice King to say that there will be eye testing available at the Club Championship show on 1st October - full details and application form to book your place are available from Eunice.
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 12th July 2023
Friday saw us heading down to Rutland for the very last East of England Championship show. Next year the date and CCs will be taken over by Boston, but not for Clumbers unfortunately as this year was to be our last set of CCs at East of England. A shame, really, as the new venue was very good.
We also lose Gundog Society of Wales and Three Counties next year. With quite a lot of new puppies either out - or due out - this summer, hopefully entries will increase. If they are sustained at 30 or over we may get some sets of CCs back.
Meanwhile, on to results. Bill Orzell was awarding CCs in Clumbers for the first time and it was a repeat of the 2022 results for the top honours, with the litter brother and sister duo doing the double again. DCC and BOB Sh Ch Maursett Malachie of Molvonia, with kennel mate Maursett Muttley picking up the Reserve DCC for a seriously well-chuffed Paul and Sue Whitehouse. In bitches, it was once again our Sh Ch Maursett Marnie collecting another bitch CC, with Dave and Sue Boden’s Suelynda Kreme Della Kreme collecting the Res BCC.
I did hear some disturbing rumours at East of England that a few championship shows are teetering on the edge of having to close. Let’s hope that this is just unwarranted gossip, but entries have really dropped across all breeds this year and I can understand that some shows may be struggling. Fingers crossed that entries pick up.
Now for some sad news that Sue and Lauren Wilson’s Margot (Winhampton Oops a Daisy) has died suddenly and at quite a young age - it never gets any easier losing our dogs.
Entries for Leeds will be closing shortly, so details of the entry etc at a later date. Just a warning that there are road works on the A1, with both north and south carriageways going down to one lane at Darrington and the hold ups are significant, even very early in the morning, but especially on week days as we know from personal experience. As we are on a Friday at Leeds this year, do take this into account and check to see if the roadworks are still in place for the weekend of the show.
We took an alternative route last week to avoid this, hopping across the M18 and onto the M1and our plan had worked well. All was going fine till we were nearly home when a nasty accident closed the A1 at Boroughbridge. We were sat for over three hours before the road was cleared. I do hope that there were no serious injuries. Do men have weak bladders? So many of them found it necessary to relieve themselves at the roadside!
After a very long journey home, we eventually got back in time to celebrate grandson Sam’s 16th birthday.
We have a couple of local shows coming up so we are definitely looking forward to not having to get up at some ridiculous hour in the morning.
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 4th July 2023
Well instead of being at Windsor I was sitting at home. Many will know that over the last three plus years my family have all gone down with Covid, but it has never touched me - yes you are right it has got me in the end. I must say it is the most unpredictable virus, here is why. On Saturday evening, I was told that someone I had been in contact with had tested positive. Next morning, I did a test that came out negative, so Hannah and I went off to trim a Clumber we had bred. On Monday, I did a second test and this was also negative. By Monday evening, I had started with a headache and runny nose. When I took the test on Tuesday, it showed up as positive. Now Hannah who had been cooped up in a car with me for three hours and him in doors have not got it, yet the owner of the dog we trimmed on the Sunday when I was negative went down with it on Wednesday. It appears that even though the test says negative you are actually infectious.
Just glad I was not at a show on that Sunday or I could have caused havoc! I am now testing negative so all being well will be at East of England on Friday. Talking of which, I did mention to Tony this morning that “we must get the dogs bathed for Friday” – he did reply that he assumed that this translates as “you must get the dogs bathed for Friday”, which is of course correct.
On to Windsor, where due to a number of absentees, Janet Richards had 18 Clumbers to go over. DCC and BOB was Lee Cox’s Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist who then went Gundog Group 3 under Gill Simpson, with Linda Thorogood’s Anbrook Don’t Stop Me Now at Harrifeld getting the Reserve DCC. In bitches it was Dave and Sue Boden’s Suelynda Kreme Della Kreme picking up the BCC with Lauren and Sue Wilson’s Winhampton Pandoras Box collecting another Reserve CC. Best Puppy was Paul and Hilda Monaghan’s new puppy Kensesqui Nice at Tweedsmuir.
No CCs at Blackpool where Richard Morris had 5 Clumbers present. Best dog was Clumbus Jolly Jumper of Taransgith, owned by Ja and Stuart Nicolson, with Maursett Mareth owned by Scott Lemon Reserve Best Dog. Best Bitch was Nicola Stevenson’s Banshee White Roll with Reserve Best Bitch Claire Nixon’s Stonielea Williams Charm. Best Puppy was Maursett Meadie owned by George, Lorna and Lucy Brown.
A reminder from Peter Sheppard that Clumber Fest is fast approaching and camping is allowed from 13th July. The real fun starts on 15th and 16th July with a Clumber Rumble, a Mantrailing Demo and Peter’s famous Quiz amongst other things. All details are on the website www.clumberfest.org. All are welcome, you can just turn up for the day and honorary Clumbers are always welcome. If you have any queries you can contact Peter at peter@clumberfest.org
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes –12th June 2023
Tony was allowed out (yes, he is definitely not under the patio) for the day to accompany me to Three Counties with just the two hooligans, as we left Marnie at home for a rest. Hannah was not with us as she, along with grandsons Sam and Ben, was competing in the Cancer Research Race for Life. May I firstly say a huge thanks to all who have made donations and there is still time if you wish to contribute using the following link:
https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/team/stephenswarriors
We were not too late into the ring as there were quite a few absentees in GSPs (as indeed there were across the board), no doubt due to the oppressive heat. Chris Page found his Dog CC and BOB in Lee Cox’s Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist, with the Reserve Dog CC going to Ricky Furnell’s Vanitonia Rio Sonara at Bebecova. In the bitches, it was Paul and Hilda Monaghan’s Sh Ch Tweedsmuir Just a Dream collecting the Bitch CC with Dave and Sue Boden’s Suelynda Kreme Della Kreme picking up the Res Bitch CC. Best Puppy was Hannah and David Taylor’s Maursett Madrigal.
It was a bit of a shock to find from the results that Southern Counties had, after many, many years reinstated Clumber classes. I suspect that most of us were totally unaware of this as after this length of time we just skip past Southern Counties. Consequently, it was a numerically small entry. A line dropped to the breed note writers to say that classes were now back on may have encouraged a better entry. Daniela Pinto Tranquada found her Best Dog and BOB in Linda Thorogood’s Anbrook Don’t Stop Me Now at Harrifield. Reserve Best Dog and Best Puppy was Martyn and Jo Lovell’s Clumbraise Your Song with his kennel mate Abbyford Lady Merry of Ivale, Best Bitch.
We now have a bit of a break until Windsor, quickly followed by our last set of CCs at East of England.
I hope all goes well for the new Vulnerable breeds show next weekend, where Ian Dawson is judging the Clumber Spaniels..
Meanwhile, I had an email from Barbara Weston about Clumber Spaniel Exhibition which takes place over the 17th to 25th June in the Discovery Centre at Clumber Park.
Barbara says that ‘Walking with Clumbers’ is taking over the Mezzanine in the Discovery Centre at Clumber Park to put up a visual display which describes some of the history and links between the Park, the Dukes and Clumber Spaniels.
National Trust publicity suggests visitors can “Delve into the various theories behind the mystery of how Clumber Spaniels became a distinct breed during the life of the 2nd Duke of Newcastle. Did they come from Spain? Were they sent from France to save them from the French Revolution? Did the Duc de Noailles give them to the Duke of Newcastle to settle a debt or as a gift? Or, alternatively, were they a distinct breed developed from others to make a dog for a specific purpose in the field?”
The display is based on the research Barbara Weston undertook prior to giving a talk to a National Trust supporters group recently; hopefully visitors will find it interesting and possibly thought provoking. The National Trust at Clumber Park is promoting the links between the breed and the Park, and ‘Walking with Clumbers’ has been assisting with some of their projects.
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 29th May 2023
Two for the price of one this week, results wise.
SKC was a day to remember for all the right reasons (if for one exhibitor a rather expensive one, but I am sure he did not mind). Jill Peak was our judge for the day and she found her DCC and BOB in Lee Cox’s Sh Ch Vanitonia Soloist, Bruin, who then went on to win the Gundog Group under Christine Morgan. I understand that finding a hotel to stay in was a problem due to a Beyoncé concert being held - so off he trotted home to return on the Sunday for Best in Show which of course he won under Paul Harding. I dread to think of how many miles Lee will have travelled and how much fuel he had to buy. On the down side, I understand Bruin had a little nibble of something he shouldn’t on his journey, but I am sure Lee will forgive him. Keeping up a family thread, the Reserve DCC went to Bruin’s cousin Maursett Mordecai at Rocabec, (Elvis) owned by Peter and Julie Cumming (his mum and Bruin’s mum are litter sisters). We were already over the moon, but it got even better as yet another relation of Bruin’s, his Auntie this time, Maursett Marnie gained her all-important third CC, making it 3 Sh Ch’s out of this litter. Res BCC was another Vanitonia, Secret Episode owned by the Crocker, Frost, Cahill partnership and handled by Lee. Best Puppy was yet another Maursett, Meadie (Barney) owned by George and Lorna Brown and handled by daughter Lucy.
It was then a short break before we all headed south to Bath where Kath Kirkman judged us - the less said about the journey home the better, though it was worth it. Sh Ch Maursett Malachie at Molvonia, owned by Paul and Sue Whitehouse, took the DCC and BOB and was shortlisted in the group by Colin Woodward. Res DCC went to Linda Thorogood with Anbrook Don’t Stop me Now at Harrifeld. In the bitches it was a Maursett day again, the newly crowned Sh Ch Maursett Marnie kept her brother company claiming her 4th CC, with Maursett Masikean, ably handled in the challenge by Lucy Wareham, keeping up with her brother Elvis, getting the Res BCC. Best puppy was the recently imported Clumbraise Your Song owned by Mr amd Mrs Lovell - sorry I forgot to ask for your fore names.
Marnie decided to finish off the week in style by gaining the BOB at North Riding Gundog Club judged by Jennifer Millard and then going Reserve Best in Show under Tracey Hayes.
Just a word to those who discount the smallest puppies in a litter, do not automatically disregard them - if the puppy is the best as far as conformation and breed type is concerned, keep it. Marnie and her dad Mathos were both ‘tiddlers’ in their respective litters, possibly one of the reasons I bonded with them as I continually kept moving them on to the biggest teat. As the saying goes, size does not matter. On that note, I will be not be mentioning the present given to daughter Hannah at Bath by Lauren Wilson and Rachel Wareham!
We now have a breather till Three Counties where we are second in ring 1 after sixty German Shorthaired Pointer making eighty entries, who are in at 9am.
The results of the vote for committee are out and the club welcomes new committee members Paul Whitehouse, Michelle Dawson and Sandra Garrat who join Peter Sheppard for atwo year stint with Nigel Bryant serving for one year. Sara Kirkman, James Taylor and Sue Boden are still in situ for another year. All the officers stand as they were either not up for re-election or stood unopposed. The full list will be on the club website. It is sad that only 101voting papers were returned and four of those were spoilt.
I end with the sad news that Wilf Steele has died. His wife Cath awarded CCs in Clumbers and they had their girl Sula at the same time we had our first boy Claude some 40 years ago. Although Wilf did not show much, he was a well-known face stewarding at so many Open and Championship shows in the North of England. The funeral will be om Monday 5th June at Durham Crematorium at 2.30.
Do keep the news coming in.
Maureen Taylor
Email: maureen@maursett.com
Clumber Spaniel Breed Notes – 19th May 2023
Apologies for the lack of notes but we have been having a rather stressful time with a family member being hospitalised and then of course my birthday.
Many thanks to everyone for their best wishes, cards and presents for my birthday. I had a great weekend going to Wembley to watch the play-off between Notts County and Chesterfield from row 4 in the Royal Box. We were served a very nice meal prior to the match and I was suitably embarrassed when the Master of Ceremonies told everyone that it was my birthday and I was serenaded by all singing “Happy Birthday”. On the down side, we were in a different car park this time and it took 2 hours to get onto the M1 and in total over 6 hours to get home. We were entered at Border Counties Gundog the next day, but needless to say we did not make it. We were supposed to be picking up my birthday cake from Lucy Brown at the show, but they unfortunately could not go either as their boy Barney had been stung. I am so grateful to Lucy for bringing the cake down to the services near Carlisle and to her sister Claire for a beautiful portrait of Mathos which was a complete surprise. Mathos has now been immortalised twice - anyone would think he has a special place in my heart!
At Birmingham National, Penny Williams awarded Paul and Susanne Whitehouse the CC and Best of Breed with Sh Ch Maursett Malachie at Molvonia. The Reserve DCC went to Mary Hanney&rsquo
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