After Luke’s death in 1977, I realised that the only way to buy a puppy was from a reputable breeder, and not wanting to be without a dog again, I was allowed to have Carter Davern Volunteer from Brenda Lowe, and Dickson Nortonwood Inspiration from Ron & Madge Bradbury.

These two lovely boys were the best of friends to each other, and to me, for almost 14 years, and between them introduced me to all aspects of the Golden Retriever.

Carter enjoyed the show ring, and won many firsts at Open & Championship shows, Dickson was never really happy in the ring, but did manage a few first prizes at Championship Shows.

Next came my foundation bitch, Davern Jollity of Abnalls again from Brenda Lowe’s Davern kennel. Jolly won well in the ring and taught me so much about whelping and rearing puppies. Her line continues today through her great-great granddaughters.

In 1996, Josie, a very special puppy joined my kennel from the Westley kennel of Joan Gill and Daphne Philpott. Raw and immature, she was rarely shown as a puppy, but in 1998 she became Sh Ch Westley Alexandra of Abnalls and ended the year as top winning bitch in the UK. She won CC’s over a five year period and retired from the ring with 9 CC’s, 10 Res CC’s and 6 BOB’s. Her last appearance in the ring saw her win her final Res CC from Veteran.

Josie produced one beautiful litter but unfortunately the dreaded pyometra put an end to any further breeding plans. However, all my current show dogs are directly descended from her and I consider myself extremely lucky to have 5 generations in direct line.

Since 1993 I have awarded CC’s in the breed at home and abroad.