MANCHESTER CHAMPIONSHIP SHOW

Judges Critiques

Mr Bryan MCCABE-BELL

Judging: Gundog Group, Spaniel (Cocker)

Manchester Cocker Spaniels 21st January 2024

I would like to thank the Committee of Manchester Dog Show Society for this superb opportunity to judge my beloved breed.

A big thanks to my stewards  Lucie and Nick who kept the ring flowing at all times and really did a wonderful job.

An especially big thank you to all the exhibitors who gave me the privilege of judging their dogs, I never forget that, and for accepting my decisions in a sporting manner and what felt like a lovely atmosphere ringside. While it didn't spoil my day in the slightest given such a superb entry, it was disappointing  to hear that a few people had been running a campaign (if you could call it that) to boycott my judging appointment. What a very sad state of affairs and such behaviour really is the last thing that our lovely breed, or any breed, needs in these difficult times for the dog world.

Firstly, some general comments. We must always remember we are the custodians of the breed, particularly for the future. We forget the future at our peril. In my opinion, there are still a lot of dogs that lack both body and ribs.  There also appears to be too many snipey heads appearing, which I didn't notice at my first appointment in 2021. I am also not sure why some present their dogs with a shaved, rat like tail? The breed standard doesn't say this is what it should be so why disadvantage your dog in this way? Saying all this however, the overall quality of the breed was superb and I really was spoilt for choice in all classes given the overall entry.

BEST OF BREED : 8649 DARBY, Ms Joanna Classicway Call Time JW
Dog CC : 8649 DARBY, Ms Joanna Classicway Call Time JW
Res Dog CC : 8711 MCSHANE, Ms Karen Victoria & MCSHANE, mr Brian Meggiemac Black Pearl
Bitch CC : 8704 LEWIS, Mrs T A Haradwater Vanity Fair at Penmartan (Imp Prt)
Res Bitch CC : 8618 BOWEN, Mr David C & BOWEN, Mrs Sharon Lararth Midnight Blue
Best Puppy : 8731 RAHMAN, Mr Md & TODD, Mr DC Zheridons Blanche
Best Veteran : 8721 PEARCE-GUDGER, Mrs Gill Sh Ch Cachel Prince Charming of Pearkim JW
Best Special Beginner : 8711 MCSHANE, Ms Karen Victoria & MCSHANE, mr Brian Meggiemac Black Pearl

Class 2903 MPD (17 Entries) Abs: 3
1st: 8703 LESLIE, Mrs Susan & LESLIE, Mr Daniel Ferrersedge Shilling

This 6 month old blue boy at his first show. Still very much raw but for me showing so much promise.  Nice masculine head, good shoulder placement. Well sprung ribs for one so young. Scores at rear end, short in loin, correct angulations and a round bum. Still in puppy coat . Moved happily with a wagging tail and that bustling Cocker action which I was looking for today.  Won this very high quality class on overall type. The owner will have a lot of fun with him and a great show career I feel.

2nd: 8678 HARRISON, Mr & Mrs T & H Glenbrows Blue Sherbert

Another very nice light blue youngster still only six month old. What an superb head on him, square muzzled all boy without any coarseness. Fine sloping shoulders leading onto correct shoulder placement. For his age he is well ribbed. He is short in loin. He had a good bend of stifle and short below the hocks which allows him to drive around the ring. Will watch his career with great interest in the future.

3rd: 8676 GILMOUR, Mrs J E CHAVEZ CHEEKY CHAPPIE
Res: 8670 FLOWERS, Mr Colin & FLOWERS, C v k&r Totenkopf dancing feet
VHC: 8652 DAVIES, Miss Lynne Kerriglow Summer Solstice

Class 2904 PD (16 Entries) Abs: 2
1st: 8793 WILLIAMS, Mr & Mrs R & S L Wilmerella Highlander

This 10 month-old dark blue boy caught me eye on immediately entering the ring. He has a masculine head with a kind, intelligent expression. For me he has everything in proportion and free from exaggeration. Good angulation front and rear and well ribbed for his age. He moved with purpose and drive around the ring which won him this class.  Beautifully presented by his owner and, for me, he is going to be better than his well known father and hopefully, as successful. BPD

2nd: 8726 PLATT, Mrs S ALLERT'S FINE DINING AT CHARBONNEL

A very striking and eye catching blue boy at 11 months old.  A most appealing head , all boy but absolutely no coarseness. He has nice sloping shoulders and a good length and return of upper arm. He is well ribbed for his age and short in loin. Good rear angulation and correct tail set.  He was very happy on the move but today not quite the drive of 1st place. Beautifully presented, as I would expect from this exhibitor and I expect that both these placings will have good careers and change places often.

3rd: 8601 BAYLISS, Miss Katie Black Delja's Shaman King IMP ITA
Res: 8788 WHITEHEAD, Miss Pat Ryallcourt Step In Time
VHC: 8669 FLOWERS, Mr Colin & FLOWERS, C v k&r Corralet Dancing with wolves

Class 2905 JD (15 Entries) Abs: 1
1st: 8649 DARBY, Ms Joanna Classicway Call Time JW

Well what can I say about this stunning boy. He has everything I was looking for today. A nice masculine head, square muzzled  and such a kind expression. He had fine sloping shoulders, a well developed chest for his age, with well sprung ribs. He scores in both front and back angulations and a round rear end. He was moved at the correct pace to see his correct drive and bustling behind. Still a youngster and a bit naughty which I like to see - character.  A substantial dog with everything in moderation and nothing exaggerated whatsoever.  What a absolute star and I was delighted to award him his first CC and BOB. I seriously consider that he will gain his title very soon and that would be deservedly so in my opinion.

2nd: 8661 EASTHORPE, Miss Emily Louise Laurellakes Let's Dance

A very nice boy indeed, and unlucky to meet 1st, in such super condition. Masculine head without coarseness. Moderate neck leading onto fine sloping shoulders. Deep brisket, short in loin and well muscled throughout. Good  driving movement coming and going.

3rd: 8800 YORATH, Mr Matthew I will be fortune teller for witko
Res: 8602 BEDDOWS, Ms L D Glowhill Stairway To Heaven
VHC: 8662 EISEN, Miss C KERRIGLOW ONE STEP CLOSER at CRANKWOODS

Class 2906 GD (16 Entries) Abs: 4
1st: 8780 WARRINGTON, Mrs Sue Eileen Zakova Wise Guy

A handsome black boy who is all boy but without any coarseness. Masculine head, with a gentle eye. Scores at the front . Good depth of brisket, very well ribbed and straight muscular legs. Well boned and muscled throughout, he is short in the loin and has a round bum. Used his rear angulation and correct bend of stifle to drive around the ring.  Won this class on his overall type and was seriously considered for Res CC.

2nd: 8754 SHERIDAN, Mrs Julie Ann & HACKETT, Mrs Angela Lindridge Star Attraction

This is a very handsome and eye-catching light blue boy with so much to like about him.  Nice masculine head, square in muzzle, moderate neck leading onto fine sloping shoulders. Straight, muscular front legs with tight cat like feet. Plenty ribs and well muscled throughout. Good rear angulation. Moved with purpose around the ring. Unlucky to meet 1st in such good form.

3rd: 8605 BEEVER, Mrs J Dandyjan Dark Defender
Res: 8665 ELLISON, Miss Sally Jane Withiflor Touchstone
VHC: 8776 VARNAM, Mr Shane Marquell MacArthur Park at Shanaudvarn

Class 2907 PGD (5 Entries) Abs: 2
1st: 8746 SALMON, Miss Angela Jeanne Crimicar indigo eclipse

I have judged this boy twice before and have always done him well. He is like a fine wine and gets better with age. He is all boy without being coarse. Moderate neck , leading onto sloping shoulders. He has a well developed chest and well sprung ribs. Well muscled throughout and a dog that is very clearly exercised. Moved around the ring with purpose and an ever wagging tail which won him the class. Beautifully presented.  Its also nice to watch the wonderful relationship between this  dog and his handler!

2nd: 8616 BOND, Mr M & Mrs J Olibond Not A Bother

Another very bice boy who, when stacked, I thought would be my winner . Very handsome indeed with a masculine head with a kind eye and expression. He has correct layback of shoulders and good length and return of upper arm. Well bodied throughout. Everything is in proportion with good angulation front and back.  Moved well driving around the ring, just not as merry as 1st place.

3rd: 8697 KITCHEN, Mrs Janice Louise Annilann Bhama Mama
Res:
VHC:

Class 2908 LD (12 Entries) Abs: 3
1st: 8751 SCOTLAND, Miss K Lynwater Anything Goes

One of the nicest dogs I have seen from this kennel in a while. This orange boy has the most exquisite head, square in muzzle with a kind intelligent expression. Good front assembly with deep brisket and well sprung ribs. He is square, cobby and with everything in proportion.  He has good rear angulation and moved with drive, holding his topline well. Won this class on overall type and I seriously considered him for top awards but in the challenge, lost out on animation. This boy would certainly be very worthy of a title.

2nd: 8747 SAUNDERS, Mrs S Carmelfair Corocenzo at Oxfordogs

You really need to get your hands on this blue boy to fully appreciate him. He has a masculine head, but with a kind intelligent expression. Moderate neck set neatly into fine sloping shoulders. Plenty of body and substance and good angulation throughout. He is square and cobby, together with a good bend of stifle.  Moved with drive around the ring and another dog who is clearly exercised and another at one with his handler!

3rd: 8643 COLLINS, Miss Joyce & COLLINS, Mr. Mark Bartonholm Prince Of Tides at Candyke JW JW
Res: 8661 EASTHORPE, Miss Emily Louise Laurellakes Let's Dance
VHC: 8634 CLELAND, Mrs Muriel & CLELAND, MR NORMAN & CLELAND Belltrees Kandyman

Class 2909 OD (8 Entries) Abs: 3
1st: 8732 RAHMAN, Mr Md & WILLIAMS, Mrs Rita Chataway Dark Louis

Two very nice dogs, but different types, headed this class.  This young golden boy has a lot to like about him. He has  such a lovely head, with square muzzle and kind eye and expression. He is moderate in neck, leading onto fine sloping shoulders. He is well ribbed for his age with a well developed chest and is short in loin. Good angulation front and rear.  Moved with drive around the ring. From his breeding, I can see why I liked him and another very seriously considered for top honours.

2nd: 8769 TORBETT, Miss K Sh Ch Kirlinjis Taylor Made

This worthy Sh. Ch. has a lot to like about him. Indeed this breeder must have a mould for top quality blue roans. Not the flashiest of cockers but everything is in moderation and proportion. Masculine head not overdone and of substance throughout . Correct tail set. Good angulation front and rear, I just preffered movement of 1st.

3rd: 8621 BRENNAN, Mrs Kerry COVENANT CELTIC PRINCE OF KERRIJOY
Res: 8792 WILLIAMS, Mr & Mrs R & S L Sh Ch Wilmerella Outlander JW
VHC: 8722 PEARCE-GUDGER, Mrs Gill Glowhill Silversmith for Pearkim

Class 2910 VD (6 Entries) Abs: 0

What a lovely class of youngsters !!!

1st: 8721 PEARCE-GUDGER, Mrs Gill Sh Ch Cachel Prince Charming of Pearkim JW

I considered it to be a privilege to get my hands on this well-known orange boy. The owner has kept him in fine condition. Such a stunning head with kind, intelligent eyes. Moderate neck leading onto fine sloping shoulders. Good length and return of upper arm . He is well ribbed, short in loin with a rounded bum. His coat  was presented to perfection. Moved true front and rear and indeed he could show many of the youngsters how to move. I was delighted to award him BVIB.

2nd: 8791 WILDMAN, Mrs Christine Susan & WILDMAN, Mr Andrew Reemif Midnight 

Blue for Chanmalo Sh.CM ShCEx

I have admired this handsome blue boy from the ringside often and was not disappointed on getting my hands on him. He has a square muzzle and a distinct stop. He has straight muscular legs with tight cat like feet. He is short and cobby throughout and scores with his rear angulation with a good bend of stifle. Correct tail set and carriage. So unlucky to meet 1st in such superb form but the owner should be proud of the condition she always has this boy in, he is an absolute credit to her.

3rd: 8603 BEEVER, Mrs J Snowgate Parti Over To Dandyjan
Res: 8635 WILLIAMS, Mrs Rita & RAHMAN, Mr MD Gallinagos Gold Finger
VHC: 8642 COLLINS, Miss Joyce & COLLINS, Mr. Mark Cachel King Of Hearts At Candyke JW

Class 2911 SBD (14 Entries) Abs: 4
1st: 8711 MCSHANE, Ms Karen Victoria & MCSHANE, mr Brian Meggiemac Black Pearl

I consider this dog to be one of my finds of the day. This is a handsome black boy indeed with a masculine head without any coarseness at all.  He scores at the front with a moderate neck leading onto fine sloping shoulders. Legs well boned and straight. He has a deep brisket and is well ribbed. Correct rear angulation and tail set . He has a good bend of stifle which he uses to drive merrily around the ring. When checking the catalogue I can see his father in him. Loved him and was delighted to award him a very well deserved RDCC.

2nd: 8601 BAYLISS, Miss Katie Black Delja's Shaman King IMP ITA

Nice honest chocolate roan   boy who was a super 3rd in puppy dog.  All boy without being coarse. Good front assembly, deep brisket and well ribbed. He scores at the rear with well muscled first and second thighs. He is short in loin and round at the rear end which got him these places. Happy chap on the move. Lovely to see  young handlers enjoying their day and this is good for our breed to see them involved and doing well.

3rd: 8672 FURZER, Mrs Julie Durham Blue
Res: 8798 WRIGHT, Mrs S A La Scales Berlin with Chazbaz
VHC: 8743 ROBINSON, Mrs M Wilmerella Perfect Storm

Class 2912 MPB (23 Entries) Abs: 2

What a super class of babies, this is exactly where you need more award cards to hand out !!!

1st: 8623 BRENNAN, Mrs Kerry SPARKLETTE SHINES AT CHARBONNEL

8-month old eye catching black bitch . Such a feminine head with a kind expression. Fine sloping shoulders. Legs well boned and straight. Good depth of brisket and well sprung ribs. She is short and cobby with correct rear angulation. She moved merrily around the ring with an ever wagging tail and that lovely Cocker bustling action. I could easily have taken her home with me to Devon !!!

2nd: 8630 BURNS, Miss Michaela Jane villaspaniol Hot Sugar

This Breeder really does produce high quality golden cockers and this one is no exception. Nice head with kind expression. For me, she won her place on being square, substantial and moderate throughout. Her rear angulation and good bend of stifle allows her to drive around the ring with an ever wagging tail, sometimes being a bit naughty but I like that in a puppy.  Well handled by her young handler  and, again, it is lovely to see new handlers in the breed.

3rd: 8725 PETERSON, Miss Faye Dromacre Skyfall
Res: 8671 FLOWERS, Mr Colin & FLOWERS, C v k&r Totenkopf all that glitters
VHC: 8612 BLACKLEY, Ms Cheryl & SALERO, Mr Ian Wightroche calla Lilly

Class 2913 PB (27 Entries) Abs: 8
1st: 8731 RAHMAN, Mr Md & TODD, Mr DC Zheridons Blanche

This breeder and exhibitor always turns up with such lovely Cockers. This young golden girl is absolutely no exception. As one would expect, a super feminine head with such a kind eye. Good front assembly, plenty of depth of brisket with well sprung ribs. She has well rounded rear end and is short in loin. Overall she is short and cobby with everything in proportion. She moved with drive holding her topline and definitely considered for top honours. I was delighted to award her BPIB in such large competition and to watch her shortlisted later in the day in a big Gundog Puppy Group. The owners are clearly going to have a lot of fun with her.

2nd: 8646 CORCORAN, Mrs Judy & CORCORAN, Miss Ella Troverothway Just for Lily

A different type to 1st but an overall lovely blue roan baby. Another with a lovely feminine head, together with good front assembly, well muscled straight legs and tight cat like feet. Well sprung ribs for age, she is short and cobby and well balanced throughout. Sympathetically and well handled to get the very best out of her. A very merry Cocker on the move with an ever wagging tail and I really liked her a lot.

3rd: 8681 HENDERSON, Mrs June PENDLEDELL TI AMO
Res: 8705 MASON, Miss Jennifer LEECHBABY HOT SHOE SHUFFLE TO SANDLAUGA
VHC: 8630 BURNS, Miss Michaela Jane villaspaniol Hot Sugar

Class 2914 JB (19 Entries) Abs: 3
1st: 8619 BOWEN, Mr David C & BOWEN, Mrs Sharon Glowhill Annika At Lararth

This lovely blue bitch headed a super class. Feminine head leading onto a moderate muscular neck. Good sloping shoulders. She has a good length and return of upper arm. Well bodied with a good spring of rib. Well muscled throughout and, once again, a dog that is clearly exercised. She is short in the coupling and moved with drive and an ever wagging tail  to win this class. Today this girl wasn't dripping in coat but couldn't be denied her first place.

2nd: 8755 SHERLOCK, Mrs Tracey Crimicar Midnight Dreamz

A lovely blue girl who I have done well in the past. Feminine head with kind expression. She stands square and cobby with super well sprung rib and deep chest. Correct angulations front and back. Moved with drive holding her topline. Today just lost out to a more bustling girl but I will watch her future with interest. I continue to like her a lot.

3rd: 8650 DARBY, Ms Joanna Classicway Chiming Bells
Res: 8680 HENDERSON, Mrs June PENDLEDELL MIA TESORINO
VHC: 8795 WILLIAMS, Mr B Bitcon Sea Of Dreams Of Wyndsmoor

Class 2915 GB (16 Entries) Abs: 2
1st: 8716 MORRIS, Miss C Riondel Solitaire

Another nice blue from this exhibitor. Lovely feminine head, distinctive stop and a kind expression. Moderate neck with fine sloping shoulders. She is short and cobby with no exageration.  Correct tailset and carriage. Excels in her rear angulation with a good bend of stifle, which enables her to  move purposely around the ring with an ever wagging tail, which won her this class.

2nd: 8786 WEST, Mrs C A SHEIGRA SUPER SECRET JW

I haven't seen this youngster since she was a puppy but she has developed into a lovely girl with a lot to like about her. Stacked she is square, cobby with everything in proportion. Nice feminine head with a kind expression. Well bodied throughout. Short in loin with a rounded rear end. Nice tight feet . Moved true coming and going.

3rd: 8762 TAVERNOR, Mrs E Cassom Blue Muse At Regaltav
Res: 8796 WINDER, Mr Kevin & WINDER, Mrs Julia Crowmere Oh Melissa for Kevuliawin
VHC: 8686 HUTTON-BABER, Mr Damien & HUTTON-BABER, Mr James Esqueen I'm Iconic at Babtonkelpie (Imp Pol)

Class 2916 PGB (10 Entries) Abs: 2
1st: 8685 HUTTON-BABER, Mr Damien & HUTTON-BABER, Mr James Esqueen (FCI) Following Star at Babtonkelpie (Imp

This youngster has definitely improved with age and gets better every time I see her.  Feminine head with a square on muzzle. Nice front assembly with straight muscular legs and tight feet. She has deep brisket and is well ribbed. Good bend of stifle which she used to drive purposely around the ring which won her this class. Handled sympathetically today and won this class on her overall type.

2nd: 8779 WARD, Mrs B M Wensum Let's Dance JW

A different type to 1st but never the less a very lovely girl. Nice head with kind intelligent expression, a moderate neck and fine sloping shoulders. Nice well boned legs with tight feet. Stacked she looked square and cobby and everything in proportion. She has plenty substance throughout and is short in loin with a well rounded rump. Moved well using her bend of stifle with a wagging tail.

3rd: 8604 BEEVER, Mrs J Dandyjan Tiny Dancer
Res: 8607 BINDZA, Mrs Deborah Laurellakes Who's THat Girl
VHC: 8796 WINDER, Mr Kevin & WINDER, Mrs Julia Crowmere Oh Melissa for Kevuliawin

Class 2917 LB (17 Entries) Abs: 2
1st: 8704 LEWIS, Mrs T A Haradwater Vanity Fair at Penmartan (Imp Prt)

This lady has to be handled to be appreciated. Not the flashiest of girls but a good honest Cocker. This blue roan girl has a lovely feminine head with a kind expression. Nice sloping shoulders, deep ribbed, short in loin and a level topline, together with good rear angulation. For me she is square, cobby and has everything in moderation and no exaggeration whatsoever.  She moved with purpose and drive with that important Cocker ‘bustle’ and an ever wagging tail, the bustling action for me was the decider for the CC.  Delighted to award her her first CC and a future Title holder in my humble opinion.

2nd: 8618 BOWEN, Mr David C & BOWEN, Mrs Sharon Lararth Midnight Blue

A  girl that surprised me and very similar in remarks to my Class winner. Lovely blue girl, with a feminine head and kind expression. Correct front angulation, well boned, with straight legs. Chest well developed and well ribbed. She is square, cobby and well muscled throughout. Correct tail set, good round rear end and a good bend of stifle. She drove around the ring with drive and a bustling action. Delighted to award her the RES CC. Just lost out on overall type but close up to CC winner and another one I can fully see gaining her Title.

3rd: 8770 TORBETT, Miss K Kirlinjis Made You Wait
Res: 8750 SCOTLAND, Miss K Lynwater My Fair Lady
VHC: 8778 WARD, Mrs B M Wensum Dancing in the Dark JW

Class 2918 OB (12 Entries) Abs: 3
1st: 8641 COLLIN, Dr Peter & WILDMAN, Mr Michael Sh Ch Oktumi Opalescence WW23

A well-known eye catching  girl with plenty to like about her. Nice head with a kind, intelligent expression leading onto fine sloping shoulders. She has a well developed chest and correct angulation front and back. Scores at the rear and she is well boned throughout. Moved true coming and going and as one would expect, this girl is beautifully presented and handled. Well worthy of all her wonderful achievements.

2nd: 8706 MCBRIDE, Mrs J A Topday tiny dancer

Good honest girl with a lovely feminine head which leads onto fine sloping shoulders. This girl scores with her front assembly, together with correct angulation, straight muscular legs, good depth of brisket and well ribbed. She is short in loin and muscular throughout. Moved with purpose and drive around the ring. Just preferred overall balance of 1st. However another worthy of gaining a Title.

3rd: 8785 WEST, Mrs C A Sheigra Stars In Her Eyes JW OSW ShCEx
Res: 8622 BRENNAN, Mrs Kerry COVENANT CELTIC BARONESS OF KERRIJOY
VHC: 8604 BEEVER, Mrs J Dandyjan Tiny Dancer

Class 2919 VB (3 Entries) Abs: 0
1st: 8775 VARNAM, Mr Shane Cachel Snowqueen at Shanaudvarn

This young lady is a good, honest Cocker. Not the flashiest of girls and needs to be handled to be appreciated. Nice head with moderate neck. She has a good length and reach of upper arm. Plenty of body and scores in her rear angulation. She is well muscled throughout and is clearly exercised. Moved with an ever wagging tail which won her this class. Superb condition for her age but for BVIB, she had to give way to litter brother. Owner should be very  proud of such a lovely Veteran.

2nd: 8600 BARD, Mrs Frances Anna Withiflor Fairy Tale JW

Another young lady who remains in tip top condition. She has the most gorgeous head with such a kind warm expression. Correct front assembly with good chest and ribs . Low hock joint which allowed her to move purposely and with drive. Well muscled throughout, clearly exercised and superbly presented.

3rd: 8752 SEWELL, Mrs F Wintonia Hidden Gem At Quattrozampe
Res:
VHC:

Class 2920 SBB (14 Entries) Abs: 1
1st: 8685 HUTTON-BABER, Mr Damien & HUTTON-BABER, Mr James Esqueen (FCI) Following Star at Babtonkelpie (Imp 

- See PGB
 

2nd: 8758 STOKES-HARRELL, Mrs Cherry Vilaspaniol Pixies for Chezza's

Most appealing black and tan girl with lovely rich tan markings, unlucky to meet 1st on such good form. Feminine head with a kind, gentle expression. She stood square and cobby. For me everything was in proportion with no exaggeration. Moved with an ever wagging tail, driving from the rear. Beautifully presented.

3rd: 8796 WINDER, Mr Kevin & WINDER, Mrs Julia Crowmere Oh Melissa for Kevuliawin
Res: 8710 MCSHANE, Ms Karen Victoria & MCSHANE, mr Brian Meggiemac My My My Delilah
VHC: 8705 MASON, Miss Jennifer LEECHBABY HOT SHOE SHUFFLE TO SANDLAUGA

Bryan J McCabe-Bell

Grandtully