Collie Association Ch Show
27th November 2022
Best in Show

I was first called upon to decide Best of Breed Roughs as the two judges could not decide between themselves.

The Male, Ch Samhaven Ballahanna Banjo - A four year old quality sable from this great kennel of Roughs. Upstanding and balanced in all departments with a lovely headpiece, with a kind expression, good neck and length of back. He moved soundly covering the ground, but today for me he lacked that little bit of panache.

The Bitch, Ch Gillyflower Della Buca Delle Fate (ITA) - A sable just about to come up to her sixth birthday. For me today she presented the complete package, now looking the best I have ever seen her. Beautifully presented, not a hair out of place, an art in presentation. Perfectly balanced all over, with good quarters. Her head is elegant and refined, with the sweetest expression from her two lovely dark obliquely set eyes and nicely filled foreface, with two neat ears correctly placed. A born showgirl, and her movement a joy to behold. So Sound. Today she captivated me and I could not deny her Best of Breed and eventually Best in Show, Congratulations.

Reserve Best in Show, Best Opposite Sex - A beautiful tri colour, Smooth male, Ch Wynele Indian Ink. Truly a great ambassador for the breed whom I made Best of Breed earlier in the year at Crufts in a lovely entry. Nothing that I would change about him and was a very tough decision between him and the lovely Rough Bitch, both giving their all.

Best Puppy in Show - Coldelee Jupiter Rises with Blamorder - 7 month tri colour Smooth baby, who gave his all. Nicely made and balanced all over, in good coat which was well presented, another born showman, and for one so young moved soundly covering the ground, keeping a level topline. Could not deny him, well done.

Reserve Best Puppy in Show - Erjon Evolving Beauty - very much the baby of the show, just a six months sable bitch. In a good harsh coat which was well presented. Just needs a bit more time to come into her own, she stood and showed well, her time will come.

Best Veteran in Show - Willowhurst Vanity - Tri colour smooth eight year old bitch who really enjoyed her day out. Again balanced with good quarters, and her head is still refined. Stood and showed well for her handler, and still moves like a youngster, well done.

Eleanor Kitchen (Seriema)